There are many reasons that individuals might attempt to re-enter the United States after being turned away, banned, or removed from the country. Unfortunately, attempting to enter the country when you’ve already been informed that you are not permitted to be there can lead to harsher consequences. So, what should you do if you have been charged with illegal re-entry in Texas?
Contact A Lawyer Right Away
If you find yourself charged with illegal re-entry in Texas, one of the first things you should do is contact an experienced lawyer right away. This should include a criminal defense attorney who is familiar with immigration law or both a defense lawyer and an immigration attorney. If you hire a lawyer who knows nothing about the re-entry laws, you’re not going to receive the representation you need.
Don’t Speak To Authorities Until You Speak With A Lawyer
While it’s understandable to want to speak to the authorities and explain yourself as soon as you’re arrested, this is usually a bad idea. Once you’re in custody, everything you say and do can be used against you in court – even if law enforcement officers promise you it can’t.
Before saying anything to anyone, you should consult with your lawyer. If you’re worried about appearing to be combative or uncooperative, simply tell law enforcement that you do want to talk to them, but you wish to exercise your right to have a lawyer present when you speak.
Gather Evidence
If you’re not incarcerated prior to a pending trial or removal proceeding, it’s imperative that you collect all evidence and documentation relating to your status in the United States. This is especially important if you believe there was a mistake made and you’re not prohibited from entering, or you’ve never entered before and don’t think you can be charged with illegal re-entry.
Once you obtain this information, your lawyer can start reviewing it and determine what other evidence might be needed to help defend you.
Consider Your Defenses
Another step you can take once arrested for illegal re-entry is to consider what possible defenses are available for your case. If you were never deported, removed, or banned from the United States before, then this would be a valid defense to illegal re-entry. Just keep in mind that other circumstances besides removal and deportation can lead to illegal re-entry charges.
If you believe that your original deportation order or removal proceedings were unlawful or invalid for any reason, your lawyer can challenge that as a part of your defense. When you hire an experienced defense attorney, they will determine the best course of action for your case.
Vinas & Graham, PLLC Is Here For You
If you’ve been charged with illegal re-entry in Texas, you should take this very seriously. In certain circumstances, this charge can carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. It’s in your best interest to contact a lawyer right away. Vinas & Graham, PLLC can help.
Both Attorney Vinas and Attorney Graham handle federal crimes and are former felony chief prosecutors, giving them a unique perspective in defending criminal charges. Call the Law Firm of Vinas & Graham today at 713-229-9992 for a consultation or fill out the online contact form for a callback. You can also follow us on Facebook to learn more about our firm and everything that we do to help our clients.
