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Being charged with a sex crime is frightening enough. When you’re in the United States on a visa, the situation becomes even more complicated. A criminal accusation can threaten both your freedom and your ability to stay in the country. At Central Justice, we understand how much is at stake. If you’re facing this situation, we’re here to help you take control and move forward.

Types of Sex Crimes That Can Impact Your Visa Status

In the United States, many different offenses are classified as sex crimes. Some are misdemeanors. Others are serious felonies. Either type can have lasting consequences on your immigration status. Some examples include:

  • Sexual battery
  • Lewd or lascivious conduct
  • Possession or distribution of child pornography
  • Indecent exposure (depending on the facts)
  • Solicitation or prostitution offenses

Even a relatively minor charge can be enough to trigger immigration action. That’s why it’s so important to understand the risks and take quick steps to defend yourself.

Criminal and Immigration Consequences

A criminal conviction can lead to harsh penalties in Florida, such as:

  • Time in jail or prison
  • Probation or community control
  • Mandatory sex offender registration

When you’re on a visa, though, the consequences don’t stop at the criminal court. Immigration consequences are often even more serious. You could face:

  • Immediate visa revocation
  • Deportation or removal proceedings
  • Being barred from returning to the U.S. in the future

Under U.S. immigration law, convictions for a “crime involving moral turpitude” or an “aggravated felony” can lead to automatic removal. Many sex crimes fall into these categories. In some cases, even if you aren’t convicted, simply being charged with a sex offense can impact your ability to renew or extend your visa.

We know how overwhelming this sounds. That’s why we take both parts of the problem seriously — the criminal charges and the immigration risks.

Defending Against Both the Criminal Charges and Immigration Consequences

When your future in the U.S. is on the line, you need a defense strategy that protects you on both fronts. We take an approach that looks at the whole picture, not just the charges you’re facing in criminal court.

On the criminal side, we may challenge:

  • How evidence was collected
  • Whether your rights were violated during the investigation
  • The credibility of the accusations

Sometimes, negotiating for reduced or alternative charges can make all the difference. For example, avoiding a conviction that triggers immigration penalties may keep you eligible to stay in the U.S.

On the immigration side, we focus on:

  • Building a defense that protects you in both criminal and immigration proceedings
  • Identifying plea options that carry fewer immigration risks
  • Helping you understand each move before making important decisions

Timing is key. Early action gives you more options and better chances of protecting both your legal record and your right to stay in the country. If you reach out as soon as you’re under investigation — even before charges are filed — we can often step in to protect you before things spiral.

Our goal is to help you defend yourself fully, not just in the courtroom but in your life beyond it.

Why Experience Matters When Your Future Is on the Line

When you’re facing criminal charges and possible deportation, you deserve a defense team that knows how to protect everything that matters to you. It’s not just about fighting the charges — it’s about preserving your future, your family, and your ability to build a life here.

At Central Justice, we work to find solutions, protect rights, and build a path forward. If you or someone you care about has been accused of a sex crime while on a visa, don’t wait to get help. The sooner we get involved, the more options we have to defend you.

Take Action Today

A sex crime charge while on a visa can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you don’t have to face it on your own. At Central Justice, we are ready to help you defend your rights and protect your future. Call us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward a stronger defense.

About the Author
Christine B. Vazquez is a bilingual attorney of Puerto Rican and Cuban descent, with a passion for providing justice to all individuals caught in a legal crossfire. As a founding member and partner of Central Justice, Ms. Vazquez devotes her practice to criminal defense, family law, and immigration matters. Specifically, her expertise in navigating the impact of criminal cases, family law matters, and individual rights on immigration cases proves invaluable to her clients.