Shoplifting Charges for Non-Citizens: Potential Immigration Consequences in Miami

If you are not a U.S. citizen and have been charged with shoplifting in Miami, you may be worried about how a conviction could impact your immigration status. As experienced criminal defense attorneys in Miami, we understand the unique challenges and concerns non-citizens face when dealing with criminal charges. In this post, we’ll explain the potential immigration consequences of a shoplifting conviction and how our firm can help protect your rights and future in the United States.

Understanding Shoplifting Charges in Florida

In Florida, shoplifting is considered a form of theft and is defined as taking merchandise from a store without paying for it or with the intent to deprive the merchant of the item’s value. The severity of the charges depends on the value of the stolen goods:

Petit Theft: If the value is less than $750, it is considered petit theft, a misdemeanor offense.

Grand Theft: If the value is $750 or more, it is considered grand theft, a felony offense.

Immigration Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction

For non-citizens, a shoplifting conviction can lead to serious immigration consequences, including:

Deportation

A shoplifting conviction, even for a misdemeanor offense, can make you deportable from the United States. This is because theft offenses, including shoplifting, are considered crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT) under immigration law. A CIMT conviction can trigger removal proceedings, putting you at risk of being deported and separated from your family and life in the U.S.

Inadmissibility

If you are applying for a green card, visa, or admission to the United States, a shoplifting conviction can make you inadmissible. This means you may be denied entry or have your application rejected due to your criminal record. Overcoming inadmissibility can be challenging and may require a waiver or other form of relief.

Ineligibility for Immigration Benefits

A shoplifting conviction can also make you ineligible for certain immigration benefits, such as naturalization (becoming a U.S. citizen), asylum, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This can limit your options and put your future in the United States at risk.

Defending Against Shoplifting Charges as a Non-Citizen

If you are a non-citizen facing shoplifting charges in Miami or elsewhere in Florida, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the immigration implications of your case. At our firm, we work tirelessly to protect the rights and futures of our non-citizen clients by:

  1. Thoroughly investigating the charges and evidence against you
  2. Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and building a strong defense strategy
  3. Negotiating with prosecutors to seek a dismissal, reduction of charges, or alternative disposition that minimizes immigration consequences
  4. Advising you on the potential immigration impact of any plea deal or conviction
  5. Collaborating with immigration attorneys to ensure a coordinated approach to your case

Contact Our Miami Criminal Defense Firm for Help

If you are a non-citizen facing shoplifting charges in Florida, don’t face this challenge alone. The experienced criminal defense lawyers at our Miami firm are here to help you navigate the complex intersection of criminal law and immigration. We understand what’s at stake and will fight aggressively to protect your rights, freedom, and future in the United States.

Don’t let a shoplifting charge jeopardize your immigration status. Contact our firm today for a confidential consultation, and let us put our expertise to work for you. Together, we can build a strong defense and work towards the best possible outcome in your case.

CALL US NOW for a CONFIDENTIAL INITIAL CONSULTATION at (305) 538-4545, or take a moment to fill out our confidential and secure intake form.* The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.

 

*Due to the large number of people who contact our law office requesting our assistance, it is strongly suggested that you take the time to provide us with specific details regarding your case by filling out our confidential and secure intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry promptly and appropriately.

THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF LAW FIRMS AND ATTORNEYS IN SOUTH FLORIDA. ALWAYS INVESTIGATE A LAWYER’S QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE BEFORE MAKING A DECISION ON HIRING A CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY ATTORNEY FOR YOUR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CASE