Immigration Consequences of Shoplifting and Drug Possession

Crimes of moral turpitude, also known as CMT, can potentially affect a non-citizen's immigration status and ultimately increase conviction consequences. Whether or not a shoplifting case falls under the category of CMT, may or may not result in extreme consequences such as inadmissibility and deportation.

• Shoplifting Consequences

o Prevents individual from finding employment

o Prevents individual from obtaining certain certificates or licenses

o Potential revocation of license

o Receiving a jail sentence of at least one year as a result of shoplifting may lead to deportation or inadmissibility

o Committing this crime within the first five years of being admitted to the US may also lead to deportation or inadmissibility

o Committing additional crimes of CMT along with shoplifting may also lead to deportation or inadmissibility

o May lead to deportation and inadmissibility depending on each case, this is because United States Immigration requires “a good moral character” to all individuals who seek to enter the US

According to California Penal Code section 459.5, shoplifting is described as entering an establishment with the intent of committing a crime of theft worth $950 or less, which is also known as a petty theft. It is considered a crime of moral turpitude and may be grounds for deportation and admissibility.

• Consequences of Drug Possession

o Convicts individual for aggravated felony

o Blocks individual from eligibility of relief

o Simply possessing a small number of controlled substances may lead to mandatory or option deportation and inadmissibility Substances such as heroine, cocaine, and methamphetamine are examples of drugs that can deem one inadmissible and deportable.

State laws may differ in regard to the substances that are considered illegal, which is why the substance must be listed on the federal drug schedule within the United States Drug Enforcement Administration site in order to be deemed inadmissible and deportable.

According to California Penal code section 11350A, unlawful possession of controlled substance is classified as a misdemeanor.

If you have been charged with shoplifting or drug possession, it is vital that you attorney Ramona Kennedy, as our office will be able to assist you with the proper help and guide you step by step.

Attorney Ramona Kennedy cares about your case and will fight for you.
 
You can contact attorney Ramona Kennedy Law Offices (Kennedy Law LC) for an initial consultation and case evaluation. The first consultation is free of charge. 
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