The police stop you for allegedly driving while drunk, and you’re facing charges after an arrest. While you do care about losing your license, going to jail and paying fines, you also start thinking about your immigration status. You’re in the United States legally, but are you going to get deported for that DUI?
Simple DUI
If this is your first instance of a simple DUI arrest, odds are that a conviction will not lead to deportation. There’s no guarantee, but the court usually does not take it that far. You will need to attend to the other legal ramifications, but you can probably stay in the United States.
When this changes is when it’s more than a simple DUI. If there are other aggravating factors that turn it into a felony charge, then you may get deported. Examples include:
- Having children in the car with you while you are driving under the influence.
- Having a record of past DUI convictions that establish a pattern of behavior.
- Causing an accident that leads to serious injuries or the loss of life.
- Being way over the legal limit.
- Not having a driver’s license or driving when your license has been suspended.
If these issues combine with that initial DUI stop, then the authorities may try to remove you from the country, along with handing down other punishments. Each case is unique.
Understanding your options
If you are wondering about deportation for any reason, you likely feel that your whole future hangs in the balance. That’s why it’s so important to know what legal options you have.
