Supreme Court Examining Deportation Case
Looking for A Specific Post? Search Below
The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) heard arguments at the end of March in a case involving a man facing deportation after pleading guilty to a felony. Because of orders issued by President Trump in recent weeks, this case has taken on particular importance because of the potential increase in deportations pursued against immigrants who are accused of crimes.
Long-standing Resident Faces Deportation
Jae Lee came to the United States from South Korea with his family in 1982. He has never returned to his home country and has lived legally in the U.S. for 35 years. When he was charged with possession with intent to distribute ecstasy, his criminal defense attorney advised that pleading guilty to the charge would have no immigration consequences. His attorney, however, was not familiar with immigration laws or policies and failed to discuss the case with an experienced immigration attorney before providing the advice to his client. As a result of his guilty plea, Lee was placed in deportation proceedings and has been fighting to stop his deportation while in custody for seven years.
In 2010 SCOTUS held that the Constitution requires that immigrant defendants in criminal cases should be properly advised of the potential immigration consequences of a guilty plea. However, an appeals court found against Lee, stating he would have been convicted anyhow at trial, so the ineffective assistance of his counsel was harmless error. Lee argues that an effective attorney would have fought to negotiate a more favorable plea bargain that did not result in deportation. We will wait and see how SCOTUS decides this case.
Expect More Immigrants To Be Targeted For Deportation
In today’s current immigration landscape, a more favorable plea bargain may not even be a help to immigrants facing criminal charges. As part of the immigration-related executive orders issued by the new White House administration, the president ordered that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) adjust their definition of what criminal charges and convictions will make an immigrant a target for deportation.
Under the past administration, ICE was instructed to prioritize immigrants convicted of serious crimes as deportation targets. However, officials now have the latitude to substantially expand the definition and target many more individuals who are involved in the criminal process.
Now, anyone who is convicted of any type of criminal offense – even non-violent misdemeanors – will be considered a priority for deportation. Even people accused or suspected of crimes can be prioritized, even though they are considered innocent until proven guilty under the criminal justice process. Furthermore, the interpretation of “crime” may even extend to non-criminal violations.
Discuss Your Situation With a Skilled Chicago Immigration Attorney Today
Criminal defense attorneys representing immigrant clients may not always have a thorough understanding of the ever-changing immigration and deportation policies in the United States. It is essential for any immigrant facing any accusations to consult with a skilled Chicago immigration lawyer as soon as possible. Please call Kriezelman Burton & Associates today at 312-332-2550 for assistance.
What Our Clients Say
5-Star Rating | Based on 200+ Satisfied Customer Google Reviews
Brittni Rivera and her team (Carina Lopez) are fantastic! They are responsive, efficient and beyond compassionate. Brittni Rivera and her team treated me with dignity and respect as they patiently answered all of my questions. They didn't move on without making sure I understood each step. Their work ethic was impressive. It felt like they were an extension of my personal team. I can't say enough to convey my gratitude…
I’m deeply grateful to God for leading us to this law firm; it is a true blessing to work with such professional and passionate individuals. Their dedication and commitment help make a difficult situation far less traumatic. In our case, we received 100% support from Attorney Andrea Ochoa and paralegal Rafael. May God bless them and allow them to continue this wonderful work. Thank you—a thousand thanks.
I give my total recommendation and trust in this great organization that has supported me and my family in very difficult times, especially the lawyer Andrea Ochoa and her paralegal Rafael who were little angels that God has sent us to be able to face all the obstacles that we have had along the way. Thank you very much with all my heart. ❤️
I have heard from several people that Brittni is a great attorney. When my friend was detained, I recommended Brittni to take his case. She did an amazing job putting together all the necessary information, especially given that we had only a couple of days to submit the habeas corpus application. She and her team worked very professionally and provided clear guidance throughout. She stayed in touch consistently and was…
Highly recommend Jennifer Peyton in federal litigations. She’s very polite and experienced.
I decided to use the services of Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, and Kevin was nothing short of professional and amazing. From the consultation to the final approval, he gave us confidence and reassurance throughout the entire process. When I first told him about my wife’s wish to change her status, the first thing he said was, “We will get it done.” Even during the USCIS pause, he continued to…
Great service and attention. Felt safe and confident since the first meeting. Couldn't be happier with the results and services. I had the pleasure of working with attorney Andrea Ochoa and it was a great experience would absolutely reccomend her services
Our experience with the firm was extraordinary. We worked with attorney Andrea Ochoa. Since the very first meeting we met, Andrea gave us all the confidence to proceed with our case. She always answered our questions shortly and offered clear guidelines to proceed. When my son's case received a notice of intent to deny, she planned how to fight that decision effectively. We totally recommend everyone to trust their case…
I just want to say huge thank you to Mr. Kevin A. Raica. for everything he has done for me throughout my immigration case. When I first came to Kevin, he explained the SIJS process clearly and walked me through the steps. We first needed to get the guardianship court order before moving forward with the I-360, and he connected me with a trusted attorney to help with that part.…
I cannot find the words to express my gratitude to Brittni Rivera! She literally saved my family. We had been waiting seven years for what she accomplished in just three weeks. I was impressed by how accessible the office is—they always answer calls very quickly. A special thank you to paralegal Nataliia Melnyk. You are my heroes. Thank you.
Schedule A Consultation!
Libertyville
Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing contact information, users acknowledge and give explicit consent to be contacted via the methods of communication provided, including SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to opt out.
NUVEW | Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved | Accessibility Notice | privacy policy