If you hold a green card, you’ve worked hard to build a life in the United States. But a criminal charge—even for something that might not seem serious—can put everything at risk. Green card holders aren’t immune from immigration consequences. A conviction can lead to deportation, a denied reentry, or even the loss of permanent resident status altogether. In this post, we’ll explain how the immigration system treats criminal charges when a green card can be taken away and how we can help you protect your future.
What Is a Green Card—and What Rights Does It Give You?
A green card grants you lawful permanent resident status. That means you can live and work in the U.S. on a long-term basis. You can apply for a driver’s license, get a job, and even travel abroad.
However, it’s important to understand that a green card is not the same as citizenship. Your status can be reviewed—and even revoked—if you’re arrested or convicted of certain crimes. Immigration law treats some offenses very seriously, even when state law doesn’t. That’s why it’s so important to understand the risks if you’re charged with a crime. The consequences may go beyond fines or jail time.
How Criminal Charges Can Put Your Status at Risk
Not every charge will lead to deportation, but many can. The immigration system looks closely at certain types of crimes. You could face removal if you’re convicted of:
- A crime involving moral turpitude, such as theft, fraud, or domestic violence
- An aggravated felony, including drug trafficking, sexual abuse, or certain gun offenses
- Multiple offenses, even if they’re misdemeanors
A single arrest doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be deported—but it can trigger an immigration review. You might be placed in removal proceedings or get a notice to appear in immigration court. In some cases, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may take you into custody before your criminal case is even resolved. Even if charges are dismissed, ICE may still act based on the arrest record.
When Can a Green Card Be Revoked?
Green cards can be revoked through the removal process. If an immigration judge finds that you’ve committed a deportable offense, your permanent residency can be taken away.
Certain crimes can also make you inadmissible—which means if you leave the U.S., you might not be allowed back in. That’s a real risk for green card holders who travel abroad.
Timing also plays a big role. You may face removal if:
- You commit a crime within the first five years of becoming a resident
- You’re convicted of a crime with a sentence of more than one year
- You’re found guilty of two or more offenses
If you’re in this position, we can help you understand your options. The sooner we start, the better we can prepare a defense.
Defenses Against Deportation and Immigration Consequences
If you’re facing deportation, don’t assume it’s a done deal. There are several ways we can help defend your status.
Some common strategies include:
- Challenging whether the offense meets the definition of a deportable crime
- Requesting cancellation of removal for long-term residents who meet certain criteria
- Showing that deportation would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen spouse or child
- Applying for a 212(h) waiver or post-conviction relief
Immigration and criminal law often overlap, and that makes these cases complicated. A mistake in one system can hurt you in the other. That’s why it’s crucial to work with attorneys who understand both areas of law. We’ve helped many clients fight deportation by building smart legal defenses tailored to their situation.
Don’t Wait to Get Legal Help
If you’re a green card holder facing criminal charges, you don’t have to go through this alone. The risks are serious, but there may still be time to protect your status. At Central Justice, we’ll stand by your side and help you fight both the criminal and immigration consequences. Call us today to talk about your situation. We’ll help you stay informed—and work hard to keep you where you belong.
