Immigration Fraud in St. Petersburg

Immigration fraud in St. PetersburgFacing charges of immigration fraud in St. Petersburg is a frightening experience because the penalties you may face if convicted are so great. Immigration fraud, crimes for which the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has very little tolerance, comes in many forms. So if you have been charged with or accused of any type of immigration fraud, hire a fraud attorney at Goldman Wetzel in St. Petersburg right away to start working on your defense.

What types of immigration fraud cases do you handle?

We can handle any type of immigration fraud charges you might be facing, and we accept cases at any stage of the criminal process. Call us if you have been arrested, charged, or called in for questioning. You can even call us if you think that you may be charged with fraud so we can get started on your case early. Some of the types of immigration fraud cases we handle include the following.

  • Lying on immigration forms
  • Falsifying documents
  • Entering into a marriage for immigration purposes
  • Lying to help get someone else into the country
  • Lying about your immigration status

What types of penalties do I face if convicted?

The U.S. has harsh penalties attached to immigration fraud. If convicted, you may face deportation and may be barred from reentry to the U.S. Moreover, you may face prison time and fines.

Per 18 U.S. Code § 1546(a), those convicted of the following offenses may face fines as well as up to 15 years in prison:

  • Forging, counterfeiting, altering, or falsely making immigrant or non-immigrant visas, permits, border crossing cards, alien registration receipt cards, or other immigration documents.
  • Possessing equipment to produce such documents.
  • Personating another individual or appearing under a fictitious name when applying for a visa, permit, or other documents.
  • Making false statements on an application, affidavit, or other document required under immigration law.

If immigration and law enforcement determines that the fraud was in support of international terrorism, the defendant could face up to 25 years in prison. If they determine the fraud was related to drug trafficking, the defendant could face up to 20 years in prison.

Another example of immigration fraud is in regards to sham marriages that are solely for the purposes of immigration. I.N.A. Section 275(c) provides: “An individual who knowingly enters into a marriage for the purpose of evading any provision of the immigration laws shall be imprisoned for not more than 5 years, or fined not more than $250,000, or both.”

How can Goldman Wetzel help me with my immigration fraud charges?

Immigration fraud is serious; do not trust your freedom to chance. Call Goldman Wetzel in St. Petersburg if you are facing charges to get help with your case. We know how important your immigration status and freedom are, and we will work diligently on your behalf to build your defense. Contact us as soon as you are able.

Get the legal defense you need. Call Goldman Wetzel today at 727-828-3900 or fill out our online contact form.