Immigration-related criminal charges are among the most aggressively prosecuted offenses in federal court. The consequences can be devastating—ranging from long-term imprisonment and substantial fines to deportation and permanent bars to reentry. If you or someone you love is facing these types of charges, early legal intervention is critical. At The Law Offices of Thomas J. McHugh, PLLCwe provide aggressive and strategic criminal defense for clients throughout San Antonio and beyond who are accused of immigration-related crimes.

Common Immigration-Related Federal Offenses

Federal immigration crimes fall under strict scrutiny by agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). These cases often involve complex federal statutes, and a single conviction can alter the course of your life.

Here are some of the most common charges we defend:

• Illegal Reentry After Deportation: Especially if the person has a prior criminal record, a reentry charge can carry up to 20 years in federal prison.
• Immigration Fraud: This includes false statements on visa applications, fraudulent marriage or asylum petitions, or forged documents.
• Human Smuggling or Harboring: Assisting, transporting, or housing undocumented immigrants can lead to serious felony charges.
• False Claim to U.S. Citizenship: Using fraudulent documents or identity information, such as Social Security numbers, can trigger both criminal charges and automatic deportation.
• Identity Fraud for Employment: This often involves falsified green cards or employment authorization documents.

Each of these charges requires a tailored legal strategy that balances criminal defense and immigration protection

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What’s at Stake? The Real Consequences of Immigration Crimes

Federal prosecutors devote substantial resources to securing convictions in immigration-related cases. A guilty verdict can result in:

• Long-term federal imprisonment
• Mandatory deportation
• Loss of legal immigration status
• Ineligibility for green cards or future visas
• Permanent bar from reentering the United States

Additionally, these cases often proceed quickly through the federal system, meaning you may have very little time to act. Whether the charges are based on a misunderstanding, a mistake in paperwork, or more serious allegations, having experienced legal counsel is your best chance at a favorable outcome.

A Strategic and Aggressive Approach to Immigration Criminal Defense

At The Law Offices of Thomas J. McHugh, PLLC, we take a proactive and detail-oriented approach to immigration-related defense. Our legal strategies often include:

• Challenging the validity of the evidence: Was the arrest lawful? Was the search conducted properly?
• Asserting constitutional protections: We explore whether your Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights were violated during the investigation.
• Fighting for reduced charges: When dismissal is not possible, we negotiate resolutions that reduce jail time and minimize immigration consequences.
• Working with immigration attorneys: We partner with trusted immigration law professionals to protect your long-term immigration options.

Whether you’re being investigated or have already been charged, we work quickly to investigate the facts, challenge the government’s case, and protect your rights.

Don’t Face Federal Immigration Charges Alone

If you are under investigation or facing charges for immigration-related crimes in San Antonio or anywhere in Texas, don’t wait to secure legal representation. These charges are not only criminal—they can derail your entire future and separate you from your family.

At The Law Offices of Thomas J. McHugh, PLLC, we understand the gravity of your situation and are here to offer skilled, strategic, and compassionate defense when you need it most.