Texas DWI Lawyer Explains the Risks for Non-Citizens
If you’re not a U.S. citizen and you’ve been arrested for DWI in Texas, your legal concerns go far beyond fines and license suspension. A DWI conviction can jeopardize your immigration status—whether you’re here on a visa, a green card, or even seeking naturalization. That’s why it’s critical to speak with a Texas DWI lawyer who understands how criminal charges intersect with immigration law.
How a Texas DWI Conviction Can Affect Your Immigration Case
U.S. immigration law treats criminal convictions seriously—even those that may seem minor. While a single DWI may not automatically lead to deportation, it can still create serious problems, including:
1. Delays or denial of naturalization: DWI convictions can call your “good moral character” into question during the citizenship process.
2. Ineligibility for certain visas or green cards: A DWI conviction could impact your ability to renew or adjust your immigration status.
3. Removal (deportation) proceedings: If the DWI involves certain aggravating factors—like a child passenger, injury to others, or repeat offenses—it could be classified as a crime of moral turpitude or a felony, which are deportable offenses.
4. Problems re-entering the country: A conviction on your record could lead to extra scrutiny or denial of re-entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Factors That Make a DWI More Dangerous for Immigration
While not every DWI is considered a deportable offense, certain circumstances can increase the risk:
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Multiple DWI convictions
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DWI with a child passenger
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DWI causing injury or death
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Driving without a license or with a suspended license
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Drug-related DWI
These types of cases may be treated more harshly by immigration authorities and could trigger a Notice to Appear (NTA) in removal proceedings.
You Need an Attorney Who Understands Both Criminal and Immigration Implications
If you’re not a U.S. citizen, it’s not enough to hire just any criminal defense attorney. You need a DWI defense lawyer who knows how to protect both your legal record and your immigration status. At Amanda Webb – DWI Lawyer, we understand that the stakes are even higher when your ability to stay in the country is on the line. We’ll take swift action to analyze the evidence, challenge the stop, and work to get the charges reduced or dismissed.
What To Do if You’re a Non-Citizen Facing a DWI Charge in Texas
Don’t wait for immigration consequences to unfold—be proactive:
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Do not plead guilty without speaking to a lawyer.
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Inform your defense attorney immediately that you are not a U.S. citizen.
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Avoid taking plea deals that could be classified as aggravated felonies or crimes of moral turpitude.
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Request a consultation with an immigration attorney if you’re unsure of the long-term impact.
Why Immigration Crackdowns Make DWI Charges More Risky Than Ever
The political landscape in the U.S. can shift quickly—and for non-citizens, that matters. Under both the Biden and Trump administrations, immigration enforcement has included individuals with DWI arrests or convictions, even in cases that didn’t involve injury or multiple offenses.
Now, with increased deportations and bills like the Laken Riley Act, a single DWI charge could raise red flags with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In fact, certain jurisdictions have already ramped up detainers for non-citizens charged with offenses like drunk driving.
The bottom line? A DWI that might have resulted in probation a few years ago could now trigger immigration detention or make you a priority for removal. If you're not a U.S. citizen, it's not just about the court outcome. It's about protecting your right to remain in the country.
One Arrest Shouldn’t Cost You Everything
Amanda Webb is a Texas DWI lawyer who understands what's at stake—and how to build a defense that looks at the big picture. She has been defending Texans charged with DWI since 2009 and understands how serious the stakes are for non-citizens.
If you’re facing a DWI charge in Montgomery County or the Houston area, don’t take chances with your future. We’ll fight for your freedom—and your ability to stay in the country. Give us a call or contact us online now for a free case evaluation.
"I went in today and was given her as my court appointed. She beat my felony case in less than an hour. She was amazing. Very professional. Please hire her she will save your life. Thank you again, Amanda." — Junior M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐