<![CDATA[Immigrant populations experience fear and anxiety - The Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC]]> https://www.thelawschell.com/blog/categories/immigrant-populations-experience-fear-and-anxiety/ Wed, 25 Mar 2026 20:29:15 GMT en-us <![CDATA[“NY Convictions And Immigration Consequences: What You Need To Know”]]> https://www.thelawschell.com/blog/ny-convictions-and-immigration-consequences-wha/ https://www.thelawschell.com/blog/ny-convictions-and-immigration-consequences-wha/ Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT As an immigration and criminal attorney in New York, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of a New York conviction on the lives of individuals, particularly, on noncitizens’ lives. I’ve also seen the devastating impact of deportation on the lives of individuals, and the lives of their family members. Under the Donald Trump second term…

]]> As an immigration and criminal attorney in New York, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of a New York conviction on the lives of individuals, particularly, on noncitizens’ lives. I’ve also seen the devastating impact of deportation on the lives of individuals, and the lives of their family members. Under the Donald Trump second term administration, the challenges are even more daunting.

A New York conviction, on specific crimes, such as murder, rape, child molestation, trafficking, theft, burglary, possession or distribution of controlled substances, crimes related to domestic violence, firearms offenses, and multiple convictions, can lead to severe immigration consequences, including deportation, detention, and ineligibility for immigration benefits[1]. Noncitizens who are in the United States illegally or have a criminal conviction are particularly vulnerable.

Individuals who have final orders of removal and are still in the country are at risk as well, because they are considered to be in the country unlawfully and are subject to arrest and detention by the Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) at any time and be removed from the county without hearing.

The Trump Administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies, including mass deportation, have created a climate of fear and uncertainty for noncitizens[1]. The administration’s plans to utilize the military, diplomats, and other government workers to aid deportations have raised concerns about the potential for human rights abuses.

Furthermore, the administration’s use of the 1798 wartime statute known as the Alien Enemies Act to rapidly deport alleged gang members has sparked controversy[1]. Critics argue that this law could be used to justify indefinite detention and removal of individuals without judicial review.

As an attorney, I’ve seen how a New York conviction can lead to a noncitizen being placed in removal proceedings. The consequences can be severe, including separation from family, loss of livelihood, and even danger in the country of origin.

To get ready here are some steps one can take:

Seeking legal consultations: It’s essential for noncitizens who are facing criminal charges or have a criminal record or have a final order of removal to seek the advice of an experienced immigration and a criminal attorney. We can help navigate the complex immigration laws and advocate for the noncitizens’ rights.

Creating a safety plan: Identify emergency contacts, memorizing phone numbers, and providing authorization for emergency contacts to make medical and legal decisions for children are essential steps.

Gathering documents: Collecting identify information, financial documents, and proof of residency can be crucial in case of deportation.

Being cautions of scams: With the rise of deportation threats, scams targeting immigrants are increasing. It’s essential to be skeptical of social media posts promising quick immigration relief and never sharing personal information or paying fees to unverified sources

Stay informed: Staying up-to-date with the latest news updates on immigration policies can help families prepare for potential changes.

Know your rights. Educate yourself about your rights as an immigrant. Regardless of your criminal history, you have rights that must be respected. Understanding these rights can empower you to make informed decisions and protect yourself if you encounter law enforcement or immigration officials.

It’s heartbreaking to see families preparing for the possibility of being torn apart. But by taking proactive steps, they can be better equipped to face the challenges ahead.

[1].https://www.reuters.com/world/us/inside-trumps-plan-mass-deportations-who-wants-stop-him-2024-11-06/

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]]> <![CDATA[President-Elect’S Immigration Crackdown: A Closer Look At Temporary Protected Status]]> https://www.thelawschell.com/blog/president-elects-immigration-crackdown-a-closer/ https://www.thelawschell.com/blog/president-elects-immigration-crackdown-a-closer/ Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT As the nation anticipates the incoming administration, President-Elect Donald J. Trump’s vows to enforce a rigorous immigration policy has garnered significant attention. His hard-line stance on illegal immigration mirrors the rhetoric from his first campaign, but this time, he has indicated that his administration will focus on immigration enforcement and scrutiny foreign nationals. In addition…

]]> As the nation anticipates the incoming administration, President-Elect Donald J. Trump’s vows to enforce a rigorous immigration policy has garnered significant attention. His hard-line stance on illegal immigration mirrors the rhetoric from his first campaign, but this time, he has indicated that his administration will focus on immigration enforcement and scrutiny foreign nationals.

In addition to criminal aliens and illegal immigrants, the President-Elect’s plan could target temporary protections that more than 1 Million Immigrants in the United States rely on. He is expecting to articulate his plans for immigration in the coming weeks.

#### UNDERSTANDING TEMPORARY PROTECTION STATUS

The Temporary Protection Status program (TPS) was enacted in 1990, under the administration of President George H. W. Bush, as a humanitarian response to protect individuals who cannot safely return to their home countries due to extraordinary conditions. These conditions typically arise from natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other emergencies that significantly disrupt living conditions. TPS grants eligible individuals temporary legal status, allowing them to live and work in the United States without the fear of deportation for the duration of the program.

The TPS program has been crucial for many migrants who have fled violence, political instability, and natural disasters. For instances, Haiti has faced severe challenges in recent years due to earthquakes, political unrest, and widespread poverty, while Venezuela has been grappling with a humanitarian crisis marked by food shortages, economic turmoil, and political strife.

#### Implications of the President-Elect’s Stance

The President-Elect Donald J. Trump stated intention to crack down on immigration raises concerns not only for those currently protected under the TPS but also for the broader immigrant communities. The potential reevaluation or termination of the TPS could lead to devastating consequences for families who have built lives in the United States under this program.

Dismantling TPS would contradict the foundational values of compassion and support for those fleeing dire circumstances. Many of these individuals have established roots in their communities, contributing to the economy and enriching the cultural fabric of American society. The fear of deportation could disrupt their lives, leading to psychological stress and instabilities for families and communities.

#### Legal Considerations and Future Challenges

Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC Team anticipates significant challenges if the incoming administration moves to eliminate or restrict TPS. The program has faced scrutiny and legal battles in the past, and any attempts to revoke it would likely provoke ligitigation from advocacy groups and affected individuals.

Moreover, there are broader implications for immigration policy as a whole. The fate of TPS could set a precedent for how the new administration navigates other immigration-related programs and policies. Stakeholders, including lawmakers, legal practitioners, and advocacy organizations, will need to closely monitor developments and engage in dialogue to ensure that the voices of affected communities are heard.

#### Conclusion

As the nation braces for a shift in immigration enforcement and immigration policies, the fate of Temporary Protected Status remains uncertain. The President-elect’s commitment to initiate sweeping changes to the U.S. immigration system, presents a critical juncture for millions of migrants seeking refuge and stability in the United States. You should work with the Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC Team to monitor the developments, review your immigration status, assess your compliance with the program and plan a strategy.

The upcoming months will undoubtedly be pivotal in shaping the future of immigration policy, and the implications will resonate far beyond the lives of countless individuals and families across the country.

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