Do not fear – you really do have rights!

Many are afraid of the mass deportations that have been promised by president-elect Trump. It is important to remember that every person living in the U.S. is covered by the Constitution and our current immigration law. If we take Trump at his word, he intends to focus on criminals first. Well, President Obama has already been doing that and you all know that if you have a criminal record, your chance of being picked up by ICE is increased ten-fold. They are SUPPOSED to be deporting criminals.

Many of the people I see in my office have small criminal issues: like a D.U.I or a misdemeanor Domestic Violence. These minor crimes will, most likely, become bigger issues when enforcement is increased under a Trump Administration. However, do not give up hope. Even people with minor crimes can obtain legal status if they qualify for Cancellation of Removal. A large majority of undocumented people in this area have lived here for over 10 years, and that may mean that they have a defense against removal – yes, even with a minor conviction. The best thing you can do right now is to review your own personal situation with a competent immigration lawyer, be prepared for the changes that are coming and do not let fear control your life.