If you’re a non-citizen facing sex crime charges in Jersey City, the stakes are even higher. A conviction can lead to devastating immigration consequences — including detention, denial of future benefits, or deportation — even if you have lived in the U.S. for years or hold legal status.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- How sex crime charges impact immigration
- What types of offenses can trigger deportation
- Why your criminal and immigration lawyers must work together
- What to do if you’re a non-citizen facing charges in Hudson County
Sex Crime Charges and Immigration Consequences
The U.S. immigration system treats certain criminal convictions as grounds for removal (deportation). Sex crimes are often considered “crimes involving moral turpitude” or “aggravated felonies,” both of which can lead to:
- Deportation
- Ineligibility for green cards, visas, or naturalization
- Mandatory immigration detention
- Bars to reentry, even after voluntary departure
And these consequences can apply even if you have a green card or other legal status.
Which Sex Crimes Can Trigger Deportation?
Almost all sex-related offenses are considered serious under immigration law. These include:
- Sexual assault or criminal sexual contact
- Statutory rape (even if consensual and the parties are close in age)
- Possession or distribution of child pornography
- Lewdness or indecent exposure
- Failure to register as a sex offender
Even pleading to a reduced charge can still trigger immigration issues — which is why legal strategy must consider both criminal and immigration outcomes.
Aggravated Felony vs. Crime of Moral Turpitude (CIMT)
In immigration law, two categories are particularly dangerous:
1. Aggravated Felony
This doesn’t always mean “violent.” Many sex crimes fall into this category and lead to automatic deportation with no relief.
Examples include:
- Rape
- Sexual abuse of a minor
- Child pornography
2. Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)
A broader category used to describe offenses that violate “accepted moral standards.” Many misdemeanor sex crimes fall into this group and may still result in removal or denial of green card/naturalization.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Understands Immigration
Sex crime charges can’t be handled in isolation. Your lawyer must:
- Understand the immigration implications of different plea options
- Work with your immigration attorney to avoid triggering deportation
- Try to reduce or reclassify charges to protect your status
- Advise you on how any conviction could affect your future
Many public defenders and general practitioners don’t have this specialized knowledge, which can lead to life-altering consequences.
What If You’re Already in Immigration Court?
If you’ve been convicted or are already facing removal proceedings:
- Get a criminal defense attorney experienced in post-conviction relief to review your case.
- Explore options like vacating a guilty plea, seeking re-sentencing, or applying for waivers.
- Work with both criminal and immigration counsel to fight removal and protect your rights.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a non-citizen charged with a sex crime in Jersey City, your legal situation is twice as serious. A single mistake — even a plea deal — could lead to permanent separation from your family, job, and life in the U.S.
Don’t take chances. Contact a Jersey City sex crime defense lawyer who understands the intersection of criminal and immigration law and can fight to protect your freedom and your future. We recommend jersey city sex crime lawyer.
