If I commited a drug-related crime but the record is sealed and I have to renew my greencard, can I be deported?
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If I commited a drug-related crime but the record is sealed and I have to renew my greencard, can I be deported?
I have never commited a crime before or after; it took place 9 years later. What should I do? I have my biometrics coming up with INS, so can I get my greencard renewed?
Asked on May 31, 2012 under Immigration Law, Georgia
Answers:
Meghan Abigail / Abigail Law Firm, PLLC
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I agree with my colleague that you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney. Get the complete criminal record for the attorney to review. The drug conviction might mean you are deportable, depending on what drug it was. If you are placed into deportation proceedings, then you are probably going to want an attorney to help you review your options, if any, and represent you in court.
Were you ever the victim of a crime in the U.S.? In that case, it's possible that you might qualify for a U-visa, which can waive almost everything.
Good luck.
Raymond Lahoud / Baurkot & Baurkot, the Immigration Law & Deportation Defense Firm
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You certainly need an attorney with this issue, as the drug convictin, depending on when it occured and what drug was involved (as well as the statute that you were convicted under) could (1) subject you to deportation and (2) could potentially put you into mandatory detention pending the outcome of an underlying deportation case. Many of Baurkot & Baurkot's Deportation Law Clients have been put into deportation proceedings, not knowing that a crime from years ago could cause problems for them and then they file some type of application with USCIS and the person is then flagged. You should have an attorney review this case before you proceed. Please contact our Firm, Baurkot & Baurkot.
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