The reality is that any criminal conviction, not just a DUI conviction, can have broad ranging and permanent immigration ramifications. From exclusion to the U.S., to deportability, to denial or delay of naturalization rights, a DUI charge, if handled improperly can have dire consequences. The implications are too wide ranging and the dictates of INS to fast changing to adequately advise on a web page.
If you are charged with a DUI or any criminal offense and are not a citizen of the United States, contact an immigration lawyer for advice. At Milios Defense, our Washington DUI lawyers can give you some advice on immigration issues but would likely refer you to an immigration lawyer as well.
2011 Washington Immigration Legislative Update
On July 22, 2011, a new law was enacted lowering the maximum sentence for gross misdemeanors in Washington by one day to 364 days. Felony immigration law considers any conviction that results in a one year sentence, even if suspended, a serious felony that would subject a legal immigrant to deportation. By reducing the maximum sentence on gross misdemeanors by one day, the fact of a conviction alone would not in and of itself mean potential deportation. There are however, certain gross misdemeanors that a conviction for which would still mean potential deportation. There are also situations where a sentence greater than 180 days could have consequences. As above, contact an immigration attorney for any specific immigration questions.