Attention Non-Citizens!

You Are At Risk of Deportation If You Have…

ANY CRIMINAL CONVICTION
You may be deported even if the conviction happened years ago, you have a greencard, or you never went to jail.
Consult a lawyer specializing in immigration deportation before you go to the immigration office, leave the country,
or try to adjust your status.

NO PAPERS
You may have no papers or be undocumented if you crossed the border to enter the country, overstayed your visa,
came on a false passport, or are in the process of adjusting your status.

OLD ORDER OF DEPORTATION

Sometimes immigration does not tell you that you have an old deportation order. You may have one if you lost
your asylum case, skipped a marriage/adjustment interview or skipped an immigration hearing. To find out if you
have an old order of deportation follow these steps:
1. Find your “Alien Registration Number.” It is on most immigration papers, including the I-94 card on
your passport, greencard, or any other document that immigration gives you. The A# looks like:
A99 999 999.
2. Call 1-800-898-7180. This is the hotline for the immigration court (EOIR).
3. Press “1” for English or “2” for Spanish.
4. Enter the 8 digits of your A-number and listen for instructions. If your number is in the system, then this
means that an immigration case existed against you at some time.
5. Press “3” to find out if an immigration judge decided your case, including if there is an order of
deportation (“removal”) against you.
6. If the hotline says you have a deportation/removal order, consult a lawyer specializing in immigration
deportation before you go to the immigration office, leave the country, or try to adjust your status.

You May Be Detained If…

YOU LEAVE T HE COUNTRY AND T RY T O RE-ENTER
When you re-enter the US at an airport, seaport, or at the border, immigration agents may do a background check.
If you have an old conviction, false papers or a deportation order, you may be detained, charged for trying to enter
illegally, and deported.

POLICE STOP YOU

Police officers do immigration checks often, even if you are not being charged with a crime. They may arrest you
and send you to Immigration if you have a prior conviction or old deportation order. If police stop or arrest you:
q Ask for a warrant if officers seek to enter your home. You have the right to see this document if any
officer seeks to enter your home. The warrant lists the areas that the officers can search. Note if they
enter any other areas.
q Record who arrested you. Write down the officer(s) name, agency (FBI, NYPD, INS), and badge
number. Find this information on the officers’ business cards, uniforms, and cars.
q Remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions. DO NOT LIE! Say nothing or say, “I need to
speak with a lawyer first.”
q Do NOT sign any papers without talking with a lawyer first. Officers will try to scare or trick you. Don’t be
fooled.
q Do not give any immigration information. You do not have to tell officers your status in the US or your
country of origin. By giving this information, you may help the government deport you faster.
q Do NOT take a guilty plea without speaking to a lawyer specializing in deportation. Defense lawyers,
prosecutors and judges are not required to tell you the immigration consequences of a conviction.
q Make sure your family has your Alien Registration Number. It is on most immigration papers and looks
like: A99 999 999.

(cont’d)
Produced by F AMILIES FOR FREEDOM 2 Washington Street, 766 North New York NY 10004 212.898.4121 (tel) 212.363-8533 (fax)
YOU FINISH SERVING A CRIMINAL SENTENCE
You may be sent to immigration after you complete jail time, probation, a rehabilitation program, boot camp
(including NY Shock program). Officers running the jails or programs are not trained in immigration laws, and often
give people incorrect information. Do NOT rely on their word. If you have been visited by any immigration officer,
or are not a citizen, you may have an immigration detainer.

YOU GO T O ANY IMMIGRATION OFFICE

If you are at risk of deportation and go to Federal Plaza (or any other immigration office), you risk being detained.
People have been deported when they go to pick-up a work permit or greencard, inquire about their citizenship
application, or respond to an appointment letter. If you have an order of deportation or past conviction and decide
that you must go to an immigration office, call a deportation specialist before you go and follow these tips:
q Tell a family member or close friend where you are going, and set a time to call them after the visit. If
you do not call because you are detained, they should start looking for you (follow steps below).
q Do NOT take your passport, work permit, travel documents, or greencard. If you must take them, leave
items not necessary at home. Give a copy of everything you take to a relative or friend.
q If you are going in response to an appointment letter, leave a copy of the letter with a relative or friend.

TIPS! If Immigration Detains You or Your Loved One…

DETAINEES
q Do NOT sign any statements or documents, especially ones giving up your right to an immigration
hearing in front of an immigration judge.
q If you have an old order of deportation, you will not see a judge and can be deported immediately. Ask
for a Notice of Reinstatement of Deportation Order.
q Make sure your family members have a copy of your immigration paperwork, including your Notice to
Appear (NTA).
q If you are able to see an immigration judge and you do not have an attorney, tell the judge that you need
more time to find someone to represent you. Do NOT concede or admit to the Immigration Services
charges against you. Do NOT go into detail about your case. Anything you say can and will be used
against you – even your nationality.
q If you think you may be transferred to a detention center far from your home, and you already have a
lawyer, have them file an immigration form with DHS saying that they are representing you. This form is
called a G-28. You can download it from DHS at http://www.immigration.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/g-
28.htm. Fax the form to the Deportation Officer immediately. This form may convince the officer to stop
your transfer.

FAMILY M EMBERS ON T HE OUTSIDE

Keep the following information about your detained loved one:
q Full name and aliases
q “Alien Registration Number.” It is on most immigration papers, including the I-94 card on your passport,
greencard, or any other document that immigration gives you. The A# looks like: A99 999 999.
q Date person entered the U.S. and how (visa, cross border, greencard through marriage, etc.)
th
q Criminal Record. You must have a list of the precise criminal convictions (e.g. 4 degree Criminal
possession of a controlled substance, NYPL §220.09). Include the date of arrest, the place of arrest
(City, State), date of conviction, and the sentence. If possible, get a copy of the rap sheet. Get a
Certificate of Disposition for each conviction from the court clerk’s office in the courthouse where the
criminal case was heard.
q A copy of your Notice to Appear (NTA) and all other immigration paperwork.
q Favorable Factors: collect documents showing that the person facing deportation has family, community
ties and a “good character” (see Favorable Factors).

If you do not know where your detained loved one is:

q Contact the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Deport Office (see Phone List below).
q Ask to speak with a supervisory deport officer. Give them your loved one’s full name and A#. (Note:
Deportation officers may be mean and not speak to anyone besides an attorney or the person being
deported. You should still try.)

(cont’d)

Atte ntion Non -Citize ns! 2 of 4

If you need a lawyer...
q Hire someone specializing in deportation. Do not get cheated! If the person does real estate, business
and immigration, they are most likely not deportation specialists.
q Keep with you the full name and contact information of EVERY lawyer that has ever represented you.
q Get a written contract before you give the lawyer money. The lawyer must give you a “retainer
agreement.” Read it thoroughly. Make sure you understand it. Does it make the same promises that the
lawyer is telling you?
q Make sure your family receives a copy of everything your lawyer files.
q File a complaint with the Attorney Grievance Committee if your lawyer cheated you (see Phone List).

Phone List
DEPORT OFFICE (BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, DETENTION AND REMOVAL BRANCH)
New York City (212) 264-5854
New Jersey (973) 645-3666, dial O
Pennsylvania (York County) (717) 840-7253
Louisiana (Oakdale) (318) 350-0713

ATTORNEY GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE

Manhattan or the Bronx (212) 401-0800
All other New York City Boroughs (718) 923-6300
New Jersey (800) 406-8594

LEGAL INFORMATION/ADVICE
Legal Aid Society Immigration Law Unit (212) 440-4300
Immigrant Defense Project (212) 898-4132 Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30 to 4:30pm
Note: This organization gives free advice on the deportation
consequences of convictions, but does NOT have lawyers to
represent you.
Pennsylvania Immigrant Resource Center (717) 600-8099

SUPPORT
Families For Freedom (212) 898-4121
Note: A group for detainees and families. They are not lawyers. They
are people fighting against the injustices facing immigrants.

Families For Freedom is a network by and for people directly affected by unjust immigration laws. Our
loved ones have been deported, sit in prisons awaiting exile, or live with the fear of being kicked out of
their homes. Our day-to-day lives are like a prison. But we refuse to accept injustice.
We are uniting to change the conditions that threaten our safety and happiness.

Atte ntion Non -Citize ns! 3 of 4

How to Document Your Favorable Factors

FAVORABLE FACTORS PROOF

Family Ties in the - copies of family members’ naturalization certificates and/or resident alien cards
United States - letters of support from family members
Long-term residence in - US school diplomas
the United States, - letters of support from long-term friends in US, former teachers, neighbors, landlords
especially if residence
began at a young age
Hardship to yourself - medical reports showing material dependence of family member on you (the person in
and/or to family proceedings)
members if deportation - medical reports documenting your own health problems and need for family support here
occurs - written proof that elderly parents, young children, pregnant spouse, etc. will suffer if you are
deported
- written household budget that highlights family’s dependence on you for: payment of
rent/mortgage; children’s educational expenses; child support; medical expenses; utilities
and food
Service in U.S. Armed - enlistment and discharge papers (DD 214)
Forces - certificates for all service given and honors received
- letters of support from fellow enlistees, officers and superiors in Armed Forces
History of Employment - letters of support from former employer(s) discussing your merits as a worker
- tax returns, W2 Forms
Property or Business - Deed/mortgage/lease of home
Ties - letters of support from employees
- ownership documents of Business (especially if business supports family expenses and/or
provides jobs to other people)
Service to community - letters of support from religious groups, PTAs, and other local organizations with which your
family is involved
- awards for or documentation of community service
Genuine Rehabilitation - proof of programs and work in prison/jail
- proof of attendance for rehabilitation program, or support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous
(including letters from counselors/group leaders documenting your progress)
- certificates for (or proof of enrollment in) continuing education (e.g. GED, college courses,
business and/or trade skills)
Good Character - tax returns documenting consistent payment and good tax history
- letters of support from Correction/Parole/Probation Officers, judges, lawyers, community
leaders, local elected officials, clergy

LETTERS OF SUPPORT

• Address it “To Whom It May Concern.”

• Length: the letter can be as long or short as you’d like, but if possible no more than a page.
• Describe yourself: explain who you are (for example, your age, job, or community role), and how you know the person in
proceedings.
• Be specific: write about some experience or conversation you have had with the person in proceedings, or how this
person has been special to your life. Avoid general statements. Don’t just say “He is a very good man.” Explain why you
think so.
• Discuss the family and community life of the person in proceedings: is this person an active community member? Has
this person worked hard to raise a family and create a home here? How do you admire his/her family? Why do you
believe the person in proceedings should be allowed to live in this country?
• Give an original copy of the signed letter as soon as possible to _______________________________.

NOTE: All letters of support should be in English or, if in another language,

you should provide the court with an accurate English translation.

Atte ntion Non -Citize ns! 4 of 4

 Atención a Aquellos que No Son Ciudadanos!

Usted Está a Riesgo de Ser Deportado Si Usted…

T IENE UNA CONDENA CRIMINAL
Usted puede ser deportado aunque su condena sea de muchos años atrás, aunque tenga la tarjeta de
residente permanente, o aunque nunca haya estado encarcelado. Consulte con un abogado especializado en
inmigración antes de ir a una oficina de inmigración, antes de viajar fuera del pais, o antes de ajustar su estado
migratorio.
ES INDOCUMENTADO
Usted es indocumentado si cruzó la frontera para entrar al pais, si se quedó mas tiempo del que le permitía su
visa, si vino con un pasaporte falso, o si está en el proceso de ajustar su estado migratorio.
T UVO UNA ORDEN DE DEPORTACIÓN EN EL PASADO
Hay ocasiones en las cuales el Servicio de Inmigración no le informa que usted tiene una orden de
deportación. Usted puede tener una orden de deportación si perdió su caso de asilo, si faltó a una cita para
ajuste de estado migratorio (por ejemplo por caso de matrimonio), o si faltó a una cita ante un tribunal de
inmigración. Para saber si usted tuvo una orden de deportación en el pasado siga las instrucciones siguientes:
1. Identifique su número de registración de extranjero (“Alien Registration Number”). Este número está
en la mayoría de los documentos de inmigración, incluyendo la tarjeta I-94 en su pasaporte, su tarjeta
de residente permanente, o cualquier otro documento proporcionado por el servicio de inmigración. El
número “A” luce de esta manera: A99 999 999.
2. Llame al 1-800-898-7180. Este es el número de telefono de la corte de inmigración. (EOIR).
3. Presione el “1” para atención en Inglés o el “2” para atención en Español.
4. Presione los 8 digitos de su número “A” y siga las instrucciones. Si su número está en el sistema, esto
significa que hay, o hubo, en algún momento un caso de inmigración en contra de usted.
5. Presione el “3” para saber si hubo una decisión en su caso por un juez de inmigración, tambien puede
averiguar si hay una orden de deportación en contra de usted.
6. Si el mensaje dice que existe una orden de deportación en contra de usted, consulte con un abogado
especializado en inmigración antes de ir a una oficina de inmigración, antes de viajar fuera del pais, o
antes de ajustar su estado migratorio.

Usted Puede Ser Detenido Si Usted…

VIAJA FUERA DEL PAIS E INENTA VOLVER
Cuando usted regresa a los Estados Unidos a traves de un aeropuerto, un puerto maritimo, o por la frontera,
los oficiales de inmigración podrían hacer un chequeo de sus antecedents. Si usted tiene una condena en el
pasado, si tiene documentos falsos, o si tiene una orden de deportación, usted puede ser detenido, acusado
de intento de entrar al pais ilegalmente y luego puede ser deportado.
ES DETENIDO POR LA POLICÍA
Los oficiales de la policía hacen chequeos de inmigración rutinamente asi usted no esté acusado de un crimen.
Ellos pueden arrestarlo y enviarlo al Servicio de Inmigración si usted tuvo una condena, o una orden de
detención en el pasado. Si la policía lo detiene o lo arresta:
q Pida una orden de cateo o permiso (“warrant”) si los oficiales quieren entrar a su casa. Usted tiene
derecho a ver este documento si algún oficial quiere entrar a su casa. Este permiso muestra las areas
que los oficiales pueden registrar. Ponga atención si es que ellos registran otras areas.
q Escriba el nombre del oficial que lo arrestó, a cuál agencia pertenece (FBI, NYPD, INS), y su número
de insignia. Usted puede encontrar esta información en las tarjetas de negocios de los oficiales, sus
uniformes, y sus carros.
q Mantengase en silencio. Usted no tiene que responder a ninguna pregunta. NO MIENTA! No diga
nada, o diga “Necesito hablar con un abogado primero.”
q NO FIRME ningun papel sin antes haber hablado con un abogado. Los oficiales tratarán de asustarlo
o engañarlo. No se deje engañar.

(continua)

Producido por F AMILIAS POR LA LIBERTAD 2 Washington Street, 766 North New York NY 10004 212.898.4121 (tel) 212.363-8533 (fax)
 q No de información acerca de su estado migratorio. Usted no tiene que decirle a los oficiales cual es su
estado migratorio en los Estados Unidos o en su pais de origen. Si les da esta información, usted
estará ayudando al gobierno a que lo deporte más rapido.
q NO acepte un cargo de culpabilidad sin haber consultado a un abogado especializado en deportación.
Los abogados defensores, los fiscales y los jueces no están obligados a decirle a usted cuales son las
consecuencias de una condena bajo las leyes de inmigración.
q Asegurese de que su familia tenga su núero de registración de extranjero. Este número está en los
documentos de inmigración y luce así: A99 999 999.
CUMPLE SU SENTENCIA CRIMINAL
Usted puede ser entregado al Servicio de Inmigración despues de haber completado su sentencia criminal,
libertad condicional, un programa de rehabilitación, entrenamiento militar (incluyendo el programa “Shock”).
Los oficiales de las carceles o de los otros programas, no están entrenados en las leyes de inmigración y
frecuentemente les dan a las personas información incorrecta. No se confie de su palabra. Si usted ha recibido
una visita de un oficial de inmigración, o si usted no es un ciudadano, usted puede tener una detención de
inmigración (“immigration detainer”).
VISITA UNA OFICINA DE INMIGRACIÓN
Si usted está a riesgo de ser deportado y va al edificio de Federal Plaza (o a cualquier otra oficina de
inmigración), usted puede ser detenido. Muchas personas han sido deportadas cuando han ido a recoger un
permiso de trabajo o la tarjeta de residente permanente, cuando pedían información acerca de su aplicaión
ciudadanía, o cuando asistían a una cita. Si usted tiene una orden de deportación o una condena pasada y
decide que tiene que visitar una oficina de inmigración, consulte con un abogado especializado en inmigración
antes de ir y siga los siguientes consejos:
q Digale a un familiar o amigo cercano a donde se está dirigiendo, y acuerden una hora determinada
cuando usted se contactará con esa persona al término de su cita. Si usted no llama a la hora
acordada porque ha sido detenido, esa persona debe empezar a tratar de localizarlo (siga las
instrucciones siguientes).
q NO lleve su pasaporte, permiso de trabajo, documentos de viaje, o tarjeta de residente permanente. Si
usted tiene que llevarlos, deje los que no sean indispensables en su casa. Entregue copias de todos
los documentos a un familiar o a un amigo cercano.
q Si usted está asistiendo a una cita, deje una copia de la carta con un familiar o un amigo cercano.

Si el Servicio de Inmigracion Lo Detiene a Usted o an Un Ser

Querido…
DETENIDOS
q NO firme ninguna declaración o ningun otro documento, especialmente si el documento pide que
usted renuncie a su derecho a presentarse enfrente de un juez de inmigración en un tribunal de
inmigración.
q Si tiene una orden de deportación pasada, Usted no verá a un juez y será deportado inmediatamente.
Pida una Notificación de Restitución de Orden de Deportación (“Notice of Reinstatement of
Deportation Order”).
q Asegurese de que sus familiares tengan copias de todos sus documentos de inmigración, incluyendo
su Notificación Para Presentarse (“Notice to Appear” (NTA)).
q Si usted se presenta en frente de un juez de inmigración y no tiene un abogado, digale al juez que
usted necesita más tiempo para encontrar a alguien que lo represente. NO conceda o admita los
cargos que el Servicio de Inmigracion tiene en contra de usted. No dé detalles acerca de su caso.
Cualquier cosa que usted diga puede ser usada en contra de usted, hasta su nacionalidad.
q Si usted cree que va a ser trasladado a un centro de detención lejos de su casa, y usted ya tiene un
abogado, haga que éste llene una forma de inmigración que diga que usted tiene representación
legal. Esta forma se llama G-28. Usted puede obtenerla de DHS en el
http://www.immigration.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/g-28.htm. Mande la forma por fax al oficial de
deportación inmediatamente. Esta forma puede convencer al oficial a cancelar su traslado.

(continua)

¡At en ció n ! 2 de 4
FAMILIARES DESDE AFUERA
Mantenga la siguiente información de su ser querido:
q Nombre Completo
q “Alien Registration Number” o número de registración de extranjeros. Lo puede encontrar en la
mayoria de papeles de inmigración, incluyendo la tarjeta I-94 en su pasaporte, su tarjeta de residente
permanente, o cualquier otro documento que inmigración le envie. El número luce así: A99 999 999.
q La fecha en la cual la persona entró a los Estados Unidos y cómo lo hizo (con visa, cruzó la frontera,
con residencia permanente por matrimonio, etc.)
q Antecedentes Criminales. Usted debe tener una lista exacta de las condenas criminales (por ejemplo:
th
Posesión Criminal de una Substancia Controlada en el cuarto grado (4 degree Criminal possession
of a controlled substance, NYPL §220.09)). Incluya la fecha del arresto, el lugar del arresto (ciudad,
estado), fecha de condena, y la sentencia. Si es possible, consiga la hoja de su pasado criminal de
la oficina de la policía donde fue arrestado. Obtenga un Certificado de Disposición (Certificate of
Disposition) por cada condena de la oficina del funcionario de la corte en la cual tuvo lugar el caso
criminal.
q Una copia de la Notificación para Presentarse (Notice to Appear (NTA)) y de cualquier otros papeles
del Servicio de Inmigración.
q Factores Favorables: reuna documentos monstrando que la person en proceso de deportación tiene
familiares, apoyo comunitario, y “buen carácter moral" (vea los “Factores Favorables” abajo).

Si usted no sabe donde está detenido su ser querido:

q Contáctese con BICE (la Oficina de Deportación del Departamento de Inmigración y de Control de
Aduana) (vea los números de de telefono abajo).
q Pida hablar con el oficial supervisor de deportación. Déle el nombre completo y el número “A” de su
ser querido (Tome nota: estos oficiales pueden ser poco amables y rehusarse a hablar con cualquiera
que no sea el abogado o la persona que está siendo deportada. Usted debe intentar de todos modos.)

Si Usted Necesita un Abogado...

q Contrate a alguien especializado en deportación. No se deje estafar! Si la persona trabaja en bienes
raices, negocios, e inmigración, muy probablemente no son especializados en deportación.
q Siempre mantenga a la mano el nombre completo de CADA abogado se ha servido y su información
de contacto.
q Pida un contrato escrito antes de entregarle dinero al abogado. El abogado debe entregarle un
“acuerdo de retención” (“retainer agreement”). Léalo con cuidado. Asegurese de que entienda todo lo
que dice. Le promete lo mismo que el abogado le está diciendo?
q Asegurese de que su familia reciba una copia de todos los documentos preparados por su abogado.
q Llene una queja con el Attorney Grievance Committee (comité de quejas de abogados) si su
abogado lo ha estafado (vea los “Números de Telefono” abajo).

Números de Telefono
DEPORT OFFICE (BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION AND ATTORNEY GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE
CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, DETENTION AND REMOVAL) (COMITÉ DE QUEJAS DE ABOGADOS)
New York City (212) 264-5854 Si su abogado está en:
New Jersey (973) 645-3666, ponga O Manhattan o el Bronx (212) 401-0800
Pennsylvania (York) (717) 840-7253 Cualquier Otra area de NYC (718) 923-6300
Louisiana (Oakdale) (318) 350-0713 New Jersey (800) 406-8594

INFORMACIÓN
Legal Aid Society (212) 440-4300 Pennsylvania Immigrant Resource Center (717) 600-8099

Familias Por La Libertad (212) 898-4121 Immigrant Defense Project (212) 898-4132
Tome nota: Un grupo para familias de los detenidos. No Tome nota: llame martes y jueves, entre 1:30 y 4:30pm. Esta
son abogados. Son personas luchando la injusticia organizacion da consejos gratis sobre deportacion para personas
confrontando los imigrantes. con Antecedentes Criminales. NO tiene abogados para
representarle.

¡At en ció n ! 3 de 4
Factores Favorables
FACTORES
PRUEBA
FAVORABLES
Nexos familares a los - copias de certificados de naturalizacion de sus familiares y/o tarjetas de “extranjero
Estados Unidos residente
- cartas de apoyo de familiares
Residencia de largo - diplomas escolares de escuelas de EUA
plazo en los Estado - cartas de apoyo de viejos amigos en los EUA, ex-maestros, vecinos, propietario
Unidos, especialmente
si la residencia ocurrio
a temprana edad
Sufrimiento que - reportes medicos que demuestren dependencia material de sus familiares en usted ( el
incurriria la deportacion individuo en los procedimientos)
para usted y/o para sus - reportes medicos que documenten sus propios problemas de salud y su necesidad de
familiares recibir soporte familiar en este pais
- prueba escrita que padres mayores de edad, hijos menore, esposa embarazada, etc.
sufriran si usted es deportado
- presupuesto escrito que destaca la dependencia de su familiar sobre usted; pago de
renta/hipoteca; gastos escolares para sus hijos; pension por divorcio; gastos medicos;
utilidades y alimentos
Servicio en las Fuerzas - documentacion de alistamiento y licenciado (DD 214)
Armadas de EUA - certificados de todos los servicios y honores recibidos.
- cartas de apoyo de sus camaradas, oficiales y superiores en las Fuerzas Armadas
Historial de Empleo - cartas de apoyo de previos empleadores que discutan sus meritos como trabajador
- recibos de impuestos y formas W2
Propiedad o Nexos de - escritura / hipoteca / contrato de arrendamiento de hogar
Negocios - cartas de apoyo de sus empleados
- documentos de posesion de Negocio (especialmente si dicho negocio mantiene los
gastos de la familia y/o provee trabajos para otras personas
Servicio a la - cartas de apoyo para grupos religiosos, asociaciones de padres de familia, y otras
comunidad organizaciones con las cuales este involucrada su familia
- reconocimientos por servicion a la comunidad
Verdadera - pruebas de programs y/o trabajo en la prision
Rehabilitacion - prueba de atendencia a programas de rehabilitacion y o grupos de soporte como
Alcolicos Anonimos (incluyendo cartas de consejeros/grupos de lider que documenten su
progreso)
- certificados de (o prueba de matriculacion en) educacion continua (e.j. GED, cursos
universitarios, habilidades de negocio y/o oficio
Buen Caracter Moral - recibos de impuestos que documenten pago consistente y buen historial de impuestos
- cartas de apoyo para oficiales de carcel/ libertad condicional, jueces, abogados, lideres
de la comunidad, oficiales electos, miembros del clero.

CARTAS DE APOYO

• Dirigalas: “A Quien Corresponda.”

• Longitud: Tan larga como usted desee, pero si es posible, no m as de una pagina .
• Describase a si mismo: explique como es usted (por ejemplo, su edad, oficio, o papel en la comunidad), y explique
como es que usted conoce al individuo en los procedimientos.
• Sea especifico: escriba acerca de alguna experiencia o conversacion que haya tenido con la persona en los
procedimientos. Incluso puede escribir acerca de como esta persona tiene un significado especial para usted.
Evite declaraciones generales. No solo declare “Es un buen hombre”. Explique porque usted piensa que es un
buen hombre.
• Discute la vida en la familia y la comunidad de la persona en los procedimientos. Esta activa la persona en la
comunidad? Trabaja mucho para sus hijos?
• Proporcione una copia original de la carta firmada en cuanto sea posible a [ la persona en los procedimientos ].

NOTA: Todas las cartas de apoyo deberan ser escritas en Ingles.

Si estan escritas en algun otro idioma, proporcione a la corte una version traducida al Ingles.

¡At en ció n ! 4 de 4
 FORMS OF RELIEF FROM REMOVAL*
CANCELLATION OF REMOVAL FOR ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS ASYLUM
LPRs The status of an alien admitted or paroled or of * Unable or unwilling to return where alien
* Continuously resided in US for 7 years any other alien having an approved petition for persecuted or has a well founded fear of
after admitted. Clock stops when: classification may be adjusted if persecution on account of race, religion,
* served Notice to Appear * The alien makes an application for nationality, membership in a particular social
* commits inadmissible offense or adjustment group, or political opinion
deportable offense referred to in * The alien is eligible to receive an * Must apply within one year of arrival in US
inadmissibility grounds immigrant visa and is admissible, and * Barred if convicted of an ag fel
* 5 yrs as an LPR * An immigrant visa is immediately available * Barred if convicted of “perticularly serious
* has not been convicted of Ag Fel at the time application is filed crime” (drug trafficking is presumptively a PSC)
* No prior cancellation or 212(c) relief * EWI needs 245(I) * Asylees can apply to adjust status after one year
from deportation * Adjustment barred for returning alien and use 209(c) waiver of inadmissibility if
* not a terrorist, crewman, or exchange who had accrued unlawful presence necessary
visitor
* positive outweighs negative factors preference categories
Immed Spouse or child of USC. Parents
of USC over 21
212(c) First Single (+21) child of USC WITHHOLDING OF REMOVAL
* LPR who pled guilty before 4/24/96to an 2A Spouse, unmarried (-21) child of LPR * Prohibits return of alien where life or freedom
inadmissibility grounds or deportable 2B Unmarried child (+21) of LPR would be threatened because of race, religion,
offense referred to in inadmissibility 3d Married child of USC nationality, membership in a particular social
grounds 4th Siblings (+21) of USC group, or political opinion
* LPR who has maintained un- * Barred by PSC
relinquished domicile for 7 years * Barred by Ag Fels w/ aggregate sentence of five
* positive outweighs negative factor years
* has not served a term of imprisonment of
5 years or more for one or more
aggravated felony convictions

CANCELLATION OF REMOVAL FOR 212(h) WAIVER CONVENTION AGAINST TORTURE

non-LPRs If a crime renders alien inadmissible, waiver is * Would suffer severe pain and suffering
* Continuous presence in US for 10 years available for certain inadmissible offenses if * Intentionally inflicted
* barred by single absence of +90 days or * Not a drug offense (except for one time * For an illicit purpose
aggregate absence of +180 days simple possession of 30 gms of marihuana) * By or at the instigation of or with acquiescence
* clock stops with service of NTA * Alien is spouse, parent, son or daughter of of a public official who has custody and control
* clock stops with commission of USC or LPR and of victim
offense in 212(a)(2); 237(a)(2); (a)(4) * Denial of alien’s admission would be an * Not arising from lawful sanction
* Good moral character for that time extreme hardship for relative
* disqualified from proving GMC if * AG must consent
committed offense listed in 101(f) * If LPR, needs 7 yrs. residence + no Ag Fel
* Not convicted of offense in 212(a)(2);
237(a)(2); (a)(4) VAWA TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS
* To depart would cause extreme hardship * If USC or LPR spouse or parent is abusive, * Only for certain designated countries
to LPR/USC spouse, child, parent the alien can self petition * Must be admissible
* Barred if ag fel * Barred by any felony conviction or any two
* Cannot be inadmissible or deportable for misdemeanors
crimes, but waiver may be available for
good moral character requirement if
convictions is related to the abuse.

BARS TO REENTRY MANDATORY DETENTION VOLUNTARY DEPARTURE

* Unlawful presence for 180 days * Applies only to those released from * Not available to arriving aliens
or less and voluntarily leaves ........... no bar custody after 10/9/98 * No ag fels or security concerns
* Unlawful presence for +180 days * Arriving aliens are ineligible for bond * No prior removal order
but less then 1 year..........................3 years For LPR * Granted up to120 days if before end of
* Unlawful presence for +1 year......10 years * 2 CIMTs proceedings
* Ordered removed on * AG fel If request made at the end of proceedings
inadmissibility grounds...................5 years * Controlled substance offense * Physically present for at least one year before
* Ordered removed on deportation * Firearms offense filing of NTA (not available to arriving aliens)
grounds..............................................10 years For EWI * Good moral character for at least five years
* Excluded or deported under old * One CIMT (subject to petty offense before application
law .................................................10 years exception) * Granted up to 60 days
* Two orders of removal..................20 years * Controlled substance offense
* Failure to attend removal * Drug trafficking offense
proceedings .........................................5 years * 2 or + offenses with aggregate of 5 yrs
* Ordered removed after conviction * Prostitution
for Ag Fel or drug offense........ permanent * Domestic viol or viol of protection order

*Produced by Bryan Lonegan, Immigration Law Unit of the Legal Aid Society of New York
 IMMIGRATION CONSEQUENCES OF CONVICTIONS SUMMARY CHECKLIST*
GROUNDS FOR DEPORTATION [apply to GROUNDS OF INADMISSIBILITY [apply
INELIGIBILITY FOR
lawfully admitted noncitizens, such as a lawful to noncitizens seeking lawful admission,
U.S. CITIZENSHIP
permanent resident [LPR] – greencard holder] including LPRs who travel out of US]
Aggravated Felony conviction Conviction or admitted commission of a Certain convictions or
➢ Consequences (in addition to deportability): Controlled Substance Offense, or DHS admissions of crime will
◆ Ineligibility for most waivers of removal (formerly INS) has reason to believe statutorily bar a finding
◆ Ineligibility for voluntary departure individual is a drug trafficker of good moral character
◆ Permanent inadmissibility after removal ➢ No 212(h) waiver possibility (except for
for up to 5 years:
◆ Subjects client to up to 20 years of prison if s/he
a single offense of simple possession of
30g or less of marijuana) ➢ Controlled
illegally reenters the U.S. after removal
Substance Offense
➢ Crimes covered (possibly even if not a felony): Conviction or admitted commission of a [except in case 30g
◆ Murder Crime Involving Moral Turpitude [CIMT] of marijuana]
◆ Rape ➢ This category covers a broad range of
◆ Sexual Abuse of a Minor crimes, including: ➢ Crime Involving
◆ Drug Trafficking [probably includes any felony ◆ Crimes with an intent to steal or Moral Turpitude
controlled substance offense; may include defraud as an element [e.g., theft, ➢ 2 or more offenses
misdemeanor marijuana sale offenses and 2nd forgery]
◆ Crimes in which bodily harm is
of any type +
misdemeanor possession offenses] aggregate prison
caused or threatened by an
◆ Firearm Trafficking sentence of
intentional act, or serious bodily
◆ Crime of Violence + 1 year sentence** 5 years
harm is caused or threatened by a
◆ Theft or Burglary + 1 year sentence** reckless act [e.g., murder, rape, some
◆ Fraud or tax evasion + loss to victim(s) > $10,000
➢ 2 gambling
manslaughter/assault crimes]
◆ Prostitution business offenses ◆ Most sex offenses
offenses
◆ Commercial bribery, counterfeiting, or forgery + ➢ Petty Offense Exception—for one CIMT ➢ Confinement to a
1 year sentence** if the client has no other CIMT + the jail for an aggregate
◆ Obstruction of justice offenses + 1 year sentence** offense is not punishable > 1 year (e.g., period of 180 days
◆ Certain bail-jumping offenses in New York can’t be a felony) + does
◆ Various federal criminal offenses and possibly state not involve a prison sentence > 6
months Aggravated felony
analogues [money laundering, various federal may bar a finding of
firearms offenses, alien smuggling, etc.] moral character forever,
Prostitution and Commercialized Vice
◆ Attempt or conspiracy to commit any of the above
and thus may make
Conviction of 2 or more offenses of any your client permanently
Controlled Substance conviction type + aggregate prison sentence of ineligible for citizenship
➢ EXCEPT a single offense of simple possession of 30g 5 years
or less of marijuana
INELIGIBILITY FOR LPR CANCELLATION OF REMOVAL
Crime Involving Moral Turpitude [CIMT] conviction ➢ Aggravated Felony Conviction
➢ For crimes included, see Grounds of Inadmissibility ➢ Offense covered under Ground of Inadmissibility when committed
➢ An LPR is deportable for 1 CIMT committed within within the first 7 years of residence after admission in the U.S.
5 years of admission into the U.S. and for which a
INELIGIBILITY FOR ASYLUM OR WITHHOLDING OF REMOVAL BASED
sentence of 1 year or longer may be imposed
ON THREAT TO LIFE OR FREEDOM IN COUNTRY OF REMOVAL
➢ An LPR is deportable for 2 CIMT committed at any
time “not arising out of a single scheme” “Particularly serious crimes” make noncitizens ineligible for asylum
and withholding. They include:
Firearm or Destructive Device conviction ➢ Aggravated felonies
◆ All will bar asylum
Domestic Violence conviction or other domestic ◆ Aggravated felonies with aggregate 5 year sentence of
offenses, including: imprisonment will bar withholding
➢ Crime of domestic violence ◆ Aggravated felonies involving unlawful trafficking in controlled
➢ Stalking substances will presumptively bar withholding
➢ Child abuse, neglect or abandonment ➢ Other serious crimes—no statutory definition [For sample case law
➢ Violation of order of protection (criminal or civil) determinations, see Appendix F in NYSDA Immigration Manual]

CONVICTION DEFINED
“A formal judgment of guilt of the alien entered by a court or, if adjudication of guilt has been withheld, where:
(i) a judge or jury has found the alien guilty or the alien has entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or has admitted
sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilt, AND
(ii) the judge has ordered some form of punishment, penalty, or restraint on the alien’s liberty to be imposed.”
THUS:
◆ A drug treatment or domestic violence counseling alternative to incarceration disposition could be considered a conviction for
immigration purposes if a guilty plea is taken (even if the guilty plea is or might later be vacated)
◆ A deferred adjudication disposition without a guilty plea (e.g., NY ACD) will not be considered a conviction
◆ A youthful offender adjudication will not be considered a conviction if analogous to a federal juvenile delinquency disposition
(e.g., NY YO)
**This summary checklist was originally prepared by former NYSDA Immigrant Defense Project Staff Attorney Sejal Zota. Because this checklist is frequently
updated, please visit our Internet site at <http://www.nysda.org> (click on Immigrant Defense Project page) for the most up-to-date version.
**The 1-year requirement refers to an actual or suspended prison sentence of 1 year or more [A New York straight probation or conditional discharge
without a suspended sentence is not considered a part of the prison sentence for immigration purposes.] (5/03)