Immigrant-Friendly Criminal Defense

Providing criminal defense for non-citizens in Westchester County

Know Your Rights

Are you an immigrant facing criminal charges in Westchester County? The criminal justice system can be intimidating for anyone, but for non-citizens, the stakes are uniquely high. A criminal conviction can have devastating, unforeseen consequences on your immigration status, including deportation or denial of future immigration benefits.

At Courtney McGowan Law, we understand these complex challenges. We focus exclusively on criminal defense, providing strategic and immigrant-friendly representation designed to protect both your freedom and your right to remain in the U.S. Don’t risk your future - get legal help that understands.

Why Choose Courtney McGowan Law?

  • Protecting Your Immigration Status

    Our primary goal is to achieve the best possible criminal outcome while rigorously protecting your immigration standing. We work diligently to secure immigrant-friendly dispositions that minimize or avoid adverse immigration consequences.

  • Navigating Complexities

    We specialize in criminal cases where immigration status is a critical factor. Our approach considers every detail to safeguard your ability to live and work in the United States.

  • Experienced Criminal Defense

    While we don't handle immigration court cases, our deep experience in criminal defense means we know how to fight for your rights in state and federal criminal courts, always with an eye on potential immigration impacts.

  • Appeals for Immigration Advice

    If a previous criminal plea jeopardized your immigration status due to inadequate immigration advice, we can assess your case for potential appeals or post-conviction relief.

Call (914) 409-9717

Our Immigrant-Focused Criminal Defense Services

  • Immigrant-Friendly Plea Bargaining

    We negotiate aggressively for plea agreements that consider potential immigration consequences, seeking alternatives to convictions that could lead to deportation or other penalties.

  • Criminal Defense for Non-Citizens

    From misdemeanors to serious felonies, we defend immigrants facing all types of criminal charges, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

  • Addressing Deportation Risks

    We work to prevent criminal convictions from becoming grounds for deportation, focusing on legal strategies that mitigate these severe risks.

  • Post-Conviction Relief for Immigration Purposes

    If you've already been convicted and are now facing immigration issues, we can evaluate options to challenge or vacate past criminal convictions that negatively impact your immigration status.

  • Appeals for Ineffective Immigration Counsel in Criminal Cases

    If your previous criminal defense attorney failed to properly advise you on the immigration consequences of a plea, we can explore avenues for appeal.

Resources & Confidentiality Assurance

  • Attorney-client privilege provides absolute protection for your communications with our office. Your immigration status, concerns, and personal information remain strictly confidential. We never share client information with immigration authorities or other government agencies. This confidentiality is legally protected and allows you to seek advice without fear, enabling us to fully understand your situation and provide comprehensive representation.

 FAQs

  • Do not open your door without seeing a judicial warrant (not an administrative warrant) signed by a judge. Speak through the door or window, and ask agents to slip any warrant under the door. You have the right to remain silent and to refuse entry without a proper warrant. If agents enter anyway, state clearly: "I do not consent to this search" and "I wish to remain silent until I speak with my attorney." Document everything that happens.

  • Criminal charges create immigration vulnerability regardless of how minor they seem. Certain offenses are deportable on their own, while others affect "good moral character" determinations for naturalization or relief applications. Even arrests without a conviction can trigger detention for those without permanent status. Never accept a plea deal without obtaining legal advice regarding immigration consequences. A plea offer that seems like a favorable resolution could be devastating for your immigration case.

  • No, you do not have to talk to immigration officials. You have the right to remain silent and to ask for attorney. This ensures you will not provide information that can later be used against you.

Protect Your Future with Experienced Immigration Defense

Contact Courtney McGowan Law today for a confidential case evaluation and discover how we can help safeguard your rights and opportunities.