Immigration: Admission & Document Renewal Issues

The immigration laws of the United States specifically prohibit individuals from being admitted into the country, or having a visa issued or renewed, if they have been convicted of a “crime involving moral turpitude.” Shoplifting, petty theft, and grand theft fall into this category, meaning such a conviction can result in visa denial and even being deemed “inadmissible” to the U.S.

While there are exceptions to these severe consequences — for example, a shoplifting charge being reduced to a “petty offense” — it is absolutely essential for anyone accused of shoplifting to avoid a conviction at all costs to protect their ability to remain in or enter the United States.

Criminal Convictions Can Get You Deported

If an individual who has lived in the United States for less than five years is convicted of a crime of moral turpitude, they can be deported — even if the offense qualifies as petty theft. This is serious. The risk of deportation is not reduced even if the individual has family members who are U.S. citizens. The takeaway: Avoid any criminal conviction at all costs.

Do Not Allow a Shoplifting Conviction to Affect Your Immigration Status

If you are an immigrant and have been arrested or charged with shoplifting, it is critical to hire the best attorney you can find. Avoid choosing legal counsel based solely on price. In criminal law, there are no second chances — no “do-overs” or golf-course “mulligans.” Once a case is resolved, it’s over.

While you can appeal a case, the odds of success are extremely low — only about 5.6% of appeals succeed. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure the best possible outcome the first time.

Source: Statistics on winning an appeal