For non-citizens living in Texas, being charged with a DWI can trigger ramifications far beyond the criminal courts. You may be concerned—and rightfully so—that a DWI conviction could endanger your immigration status or even lead to deportation.
As a criminal defense attorney serving Brazoria County, I’ve encountered countless clients who’ve faced these complex legal crossroads. I’ve worked with a number of people arrested in Angleton and I can hep you too.
If you have questions or an immediate need for legal representation, call my office today. I’m Tad Nelson. You can reach me today at 979-267-6081.
The Immigration Consequences of a DWI Conviction
While a standard first-time DWI conviction usually doesn’t lead directly to deportation, the situation is nuanced. Under federal immigration law, certain convictions labeled as “crimes involving moral turpitude” or “aggravated felonies” can lead to deportation or inadmissibility.
Thankfully, Texas typically categorizes a basic DWI as neither; however, multiple offenses, or circumstances involving injury or death, could significantly raise the stakes.
If your DWI involved aggravating factors such as a serious injury, death, or driving with a child passenger, your conviction could escalate into a deportable offense. Moreover, even a misdemeanor DWI can indirectly affect immigration applications, such as naturalization or visa renewals, by portraying you as someone lacking good moral character.
Visa Holders and DWI Risks
If you’re in Texas on a work visa, student visa, or visitor visa, your status could become precarious after a DWI charge. Immigration authorities can revoke your visa, deny extensions, or reject re-entry attempts into the United States based on a DWI conviction, particularly if it involves aggravating factors.
As a visa holder, seeking aggressive legal representation immediately is critical. An experienced DWI attorney can often identify procedural errors, challenge evidence, or even negotiate reduced charges, thereby minimizing immigration-related impacts.
Green Card Holders & Naturalization Applicants
Green card holders (permanent residents) generally enjoy a higher level of protection, but they’re not immune from immigration consequences after a DWI. While a single misdemeanor DWI likely won’t trigger deportation, repeated offenses, felony charges, or instances involving moral turpitude can lead to removal proceedings.
When applying for citizenship, you must demonstrate good moral character—something immigration officials carefully scrutinize. A DWI conviction, even one, could raise red flags, potentially jeopardizing your path to citizenship.
Defending Your Immigration Status in Brazoria County
At Tad Nelson & Associates, we leverage decades of criminal defense experience, combined with detailed knowledge of immigration law implications, to protect your rights comprehensively. Board Certified® in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization™, Tad Nelson understands how to build a defense that addresses both criminal charges and immigration risks.
Attorney Amber Spurlock also brings significant expertise, providing aggressive advocacy aimed at mitigating consequences. Our goal is always clear: minimize your risks, protect your immigration status, and help you move forward.
Immediate Action Is Critical
If you’re facing a DWI charge in Brazoria County and you’re concerned about your immigration status, don’t delay. Contact us immediately at 979-267-6081 or fill out our contact form to discuss your situation confidentially.
We have successfully represented numerous clients in similar positions, protecting not only their freedom but their ability to remain in the U.S.
Your future in this country deserves a robust defense—let us provide it.
