Different Sentences for Different People?

Laws recently passed in Florida have created different penalties for crimes if committed by illegal immigrants, designed to send the message "don't come to State of Florida illegally," per state Rep. Lawrence McClure. As reported by the Associated Press, misdemeanor theft results in up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine, but for an immigrant illegally in Florida, the same crime is a felony punished by up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine. First-degree murder now carries an automatic death sentence for anyone who is in the U.S. illegally.

Sentencing Enhancements and Legal Challenges

These "sentencing enhancements" are likely to be tested in court, but similar laws are currently being considered in other states including Alabama, Idaho, Indiana, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Texas.

Opportunities for Legal Status

What is certain is that being unlawfully present in the United States is becoming considerably more difficult, but few people realize that there are often ways to become legal, even if they came to the country illegally or a long time ago. Our office recently helped a client obtain lawful status who crossed the border illegally almost 20 years ago, and that green card process is now underway.

Get Help with Immigration Issues

Don't let an immigration issue hold you back. Reach out for a free consultation or forward this to someone who it could help.