Deportation can be tragic for individuals who want to live and work in the United States legally, and for families who want to stay together. Unfortunately, there have been at least 2 million removals since the start of 2010, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

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There are several reasons why U.S. ICE may try to deport immigrants. These include:

  1. Criminal acts;
  2. Ignoring visa terms;
  3. And becoming a public charge.

If you are facing a deportation crisis in Florida, contact Probinsky & Cole. Brent L. Probinsky is a Sarasota immigration lawyer will help you navigate the complex legal system.

Call 866-805-8947 to schedule a consultation. You can also learn more about immigration laws by visiting USAttorneys.com.

Here is a brief overview of three reasons why U.S. ICE initiates deportation proceedings:

  1. Criminal Acts

Certain criminal acts can lead to deportation – even if you are legally living and working in the United States. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the Immigration and Nationality Act outlines the crimes that could lead to deportation. Examples include:

  • Document fraud;
  • Crimes of “moral turpitude;”
  • Alien smuggling;
  • Firearms trafficking;
  • Money laundering;
  • Drug offenses;
  • Terrorism;
  • And domestic violence.

  1. Ignoring Visa Terms

All visas have certain conditions, and if you fail to abide by these rules, then you may be deported. Visa conditions usually relate to your eligibility to work and the amount of time you are allowed to stay in the country. If you have a tourist visa, for example, then you are not allowed to work.

  1. Becoming a Public Charge

According to the Immigration and Nationality Act, any alien who relies on government assistance is deportable. This is called becoming a public charge.

If you need financial assistance while you are in the United States, then you should rely on an independent sponsor or your petitioner. If you have your Green Card, then it is unlikely that the Department of Homeland Security will deport you for becoming a public charge unless all of the following are true:

  • You received long-term institutional care or welfare for reasons that existed before you arrived to the United States, and
  • You received long-term institutional care or welfare within five years of entering the country, and
  • You or your sponsor are indebted to the agency that provided the welfare or long-term care, and
  • You or your sponsor received a government notice that you had to pay the debt within five years of arriving to the United States, and
  • You or your sponsor did not repay the benefits after the government filed a successful lawsuit in court.

U.S. immigration laws are complicated, and a small mistake could threaten your ability to stay in the country. If you are facing deportation, contact a Sarasota deportation attorney from Probinsky & Cole.

Brent L. Probinsky has been providing compassionate and knowledgeable representation for more than 25 years. Schedule a consultation today by calling 866-805-8947.

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