As an immigrant, it is important to know that you can be deported if you break the law. Criminal activity is grounds for deportation in some cases. Generally, you need to be accused of a crime involving moral turpitude.
But what does moral turpitude actually mean? It generally just indicates that this is a more serious offense. Some sources define it as an act that is “immoral, depraved, and contrary to justice.” A minor offense is unlikely to lead to deportation, but a crime of moral turpitude could start the process.
How serious does it have to be?
One of the potential problems with using moral turpitude in this sense is that there is not a clear definition. There is a bit of room for interpretation from one case to the next.
For example, if you get pulled over for driving under the influence of alcohol, you are probably not going to be deported. If you are convicted of murder, sexual assault or high-level financial fraud, however, then you could face deportation because these offenses are more serious.
But there are many crimes that may fit into the gray area in the middle. Say that you were driving under the influence when you caused a car accident. Since you endangered others, does that mean you could be deported? Do the odds of a deportation go up if another person was injured in the accident? What if someone lost their life? All of these factors have to be considered and every case is unique.
Your legal defense options
Because this is a complex area of the law, it is crucial that you understand all of the legal options that you have when facing criminal charges or the threat of deportation.