Tampa Immigration Crime Defense Attorney
Common Cases of Immigration Crimes in Tampa
Immigration crimes involve violations of U.S. immigration laws and can include a variety of offenses, such as illegal entry or re-entry into the U.S., visa fraud, marriage fraud, human smuggling, and document fraud. In Florida, immigration crimes are often investigated and prosecuted by federal authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), contact our Tampa immigration crime attorneys for immediate assistance.
Some of the most common immigration-related crimes in Florida include:
- Illegal Entry and Re-entry: Entering the U.S. without authorization, or re-entering after being previously deported, is a federal offense.
- Visa Fraud: Obtaining a visa through false statements or fraudulent documents can result in serious charges, especially when the fraud involves employment or student visas.
- Marriage Fraud: Engaging in a sham marriage solely to obtain immigration benefits is illegal and heavily prosecuted in Florida.
- Human Smuggling: Transporting individuals across U.S. borders illegally is a grave offense that can result in severe penalties.
Penalties for Immigration Crimes in Florida
Penalties for immigration crimes depend on the specific offense. For instance, illegal entry into the U.S. can result in up to six months in prison for a first offense, while illegal re-entry after deportation is a more serious crime that can result in up to 20 years in prison, depending on prior criminal history. Visa fraud or document fraud convictions can lead to fines, imprisonment for up to 10 years, and removal (deportation) from the U.S.
Human smuggling charges carry especially severe penalties, with sentences of up to 10 years in prison for each individual smuggled, and much harsher penalties if the smuggling operation leads to injury or death. In cases involving marriage fraud, those convicted can face up to five years in prison and fines, as well as deportation for the non-citizen spouse.
What to Do if You’re a Suspect in Immigration Crimes
If you are being investigated or charged with an immigration crime in Tampa, it’s important to act quickly. Contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights. Do not attempt to handle immigration authorities or ICE agents on your own. Immigration law is complex, and even minor errors can lead to detention, deportation, or permanent bars to re-entry. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can significantly improve your chances of fighting the charges.
Contact Tampa Immigration Crime Defense Lawyers at OA Law Firm
OA Law Firm in Tampa has the expertise necessary to defend clients against a variety of immigration crimes. Whether you are facing charges for illegal re-entry, visa fraud, or human smuggling, their legal team will work tirelessly to develop a strategic defense. OA Law Firm’s attorneys are experienced in handling federal immigration crime cases, including complex interactions between criminal and immigration law, known as “crimmigration.” The firm will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and explore options for dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing to prevent deportation. With OA Law Firm’s extensive experience and commitment to defending your rights, you will have a trusted advocate fighting on your behalf in immigration crime cases.
