What if the Conviction Occurred before the Crime was labeled an Aggravated Felony?
In most federal courts, a conviction for any offense listed as an aggravated felony is grounds for deportation, even if the crime was not considered an aggravated felony at the time of conviction. In other words, whenever Congress adds a new offense to the list of aggravated felonies, lawfully present immigrants who have previously been convicted of such crimes become immediately deportable. As a result, any addition to the list of aggravated felonies will apply to prior convictions unless Congress affirmatively states that it will only apply to future convictions. Before you plead guilty or are found guilty of a crime make sure you discuss the possible implications to your immigration status with a qualified immigration attorney.
