Blog: Crimmigration

The Laken Riley Act: Why Minor PA Charges Now Mean Mandatory Detention

Dec 30, 2025

The immigration landscape in the United States has undergone a seismic shift as we move into 2026. For many years, the primary concern for immigrants in Pennsylvania facing minor criminal charges was the potential for a small fine or a short period of probation. Today, that reality has vanished. With the full implementation of the Laken Riley Act (Public Law 119-1), the stakes have been raised to an unprecedented level. At Santee Law Offices, we...

How a Criminal Case Could Affect Your Immigration Path in Pennsylvania

Aug 22, 2025

Many people believe that once a criminal case is resolved, it is no longer a concern for their future. Unfortunately, for immigrants in Pennsylvania and across the United States, even a past arrest or conviction can create serious obstacles when applying for a green card, renewing a visa, or pursuing citizenship. What may seem like a minor offense under state law can trigger major immigration consequences. The best way to make sure your criminal case...

IS IT SAFE TO APPLY FOR A GREEN CARD IF I HAVE A CRIMINAL RECORD?

Dec 14, 2024

Going to see your immigration lawyer can be a lot like going to see your doctor – especially when there is something you are worried about. You know that it could be serious or it could be nothing at all. You think maybe it would be better if you don’t find out. But you know, deep down inside, that you need to find out. You know that, if you continue to ignore it, what started...

DUI Convictions May Bar Naturalization and Relief from Deportation

Oct 29, 2019

A recent decision by the acting Attorney General should be of great concern to any non-citizen with two or more DUI convictions. On October 25, 2019, Acting AG Whitaker issued his decision in Matter of Castillo-Perez, 27 I&N Dec. 664, a case he had referred to himself in December. The case involves cancellation of removal, which is a statutory form of discretionary relief from removal that provides a path to lawful permanent residency to certain...