Immigration Legal Protection & Criminal Defense
Protecting immigrant rights and providing criminal defense for non-citizens in Westchester County
Know Your Rights
Regardless of immigration status, you have constitutional protections in the United States. You have the right to remain silent when questioned by police or immigration officials. You have the right to refuse consent for searches of your person, home, or vehicle without a warrant. You have the right to speak with an attorney before answering questions. Perhaps most importantly, you have the right to be treated with dignity and respect during any law enforcement interaction. Understanding these foundational rights is your first line of defense in protecting yourself and your family during uncertain times.
Criminal Charges & Immigration Status
For non-citizens facing criminal charges immigration consequences can be severe and permanent. Even minor convictions that result in no jail time can trigger removal proceedings. Certain offenses labeled as "aggravated felonies" or "crimes involving moral turpitude" under immigration law create presumptions that are extremely difficult to overcome.
Standard plea bargains that might benefit citizens can be catastrophic for non-citizens. Our representation considers both systems simultaneously, avoiding immigration pitfalls while resolving criminal matters.
Proactive Legal Protection
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Legal Consultations
Understanding your specific vulnerabilities and options before problems arise is invaluable. We provide confidential evaluations of your situation, identifying risk factors and developing personalized protection strategies tailored to your circumstances.
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Emergency Response Planning
We can help you develop a plan for you and your family to follow if approached by immigration authorities, including designated emergency contacts, location of important documents, and immediate legal response strategies.
Resources & Confidentiality Assurance
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Attorney-client privilege provides absolute protection for your communications with our office. Your immigration status, concerns, and personal information remain strictly confidential. We never share client information with immigration authorities or other government agencies. This confidentiality is legally protected and allows you to seek advice without fear, enabling us to fully understand your situation and provide comprehensive representation.
FAQs
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Do not open your door without seeing a judicial warrant (not an administrative warrant) signed by a judge. Speak through the door or window, and ask agents to slip any warrant under the door. You have the right to remain silent and to refuse entry without a proper warrant. If agents enter anyway, state clearly: "I do not consent to this search" and "I wish to remain silent until I speak with my attorney." Document everything that happens.
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Criminal charges create immigration vulnerability regardless of how minor they seem. Certain offenses are deportable on their own, while others affect "good moral character" determinations for naturalization or relief applications. Even arrests without a conviction can trigger detention for those without permanent status. Never accept a plea deal without obtaining legal advice regarding immigration consequences. A plea offer that seems like a favorable resolution could be devastating for your immigration case.
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No, you do not have to talk to immigration officials. You have the right to remain silent and to ask for attorney. This ensures you will not provide information that can later be used against you.
Protect Your Future with Experienced Immigration Defense
Contact Courtney McGowan Law today for a confidential case evaluation and discover how we can help safeguard your rights and opportunities.