Many people are actually unaware that illegal immigrants have rights, too. But – helping them might land you in serious trouble. If you give a ride to an illegal immigrant in the USA, you can get charged with a crime. Many people are unaware that they can not transport an illegal immigrant, which is also known as illegal alien transport. What this means is that if you give a ride to an individual who is in the USA illegally, you are essentially conducting a federal violation, which can cause a five-year imprisonment as well as a heavy fine.
What If You Are Not A U.S. Citizen?
The one thing that can make Illegal Alien Transport worse is when you are not a U.S. citizen yourself, and because if you are not and you get caught in the act, you are at a high risk of losing your American residency. Another potential scenario would be for you to get deported. If you have applied for U.S. citizenship and you are charged with the crime of illegal alien transport, the respective officer can recommend you to meet a deportation judge.
On that note, it is in your best interest to not give illegal immigrants rides. If you proceed to do so, you will only subject yourself to potential federal crime.
What To Do If You Are Charged with Illegal Alien Transport?
The best thing you can do after getting charged with illegal alien transport is to remain silent. Believe us when we tell you that you cannot talk yourself out of charges. In fact, if you open your mouth to argue with the police or to defend yourself, the only thing that you will be doing is talking yourself into charges. You cannot bargain for mercy or leniency when talking to the police. As a matter of fact, whatever you say will be used against you, which is why it is in your best interest to remain silent and cooperate with the police by not fighting off the arrest.
Understand Your Right to Get A Lawyer
Now that you know that it is in your best interest to remain silent – you should also understand your right to get a lawyer to represent you in court. By getting in touch with a criminal defense lawyer, you will have a law expert on your side who will actually advocate for you at every step of the court proceedings. On that note, your lawyer is the only person you should talk to. Only talk to your lawyer and no one else because whatever you say before your trial will imminently be used against you, especially during cross-examinations.
How Can the Lawyer Help You?
If you are not a U.S. citizen yourself, your lawyer can help you understand your rights. If you have helped illegal immigrants based on your religious belief, you might be treated as an exception. The lawyer will carefully assess your case and gather witnesses and evidence that support you in order to get the charges dismissed. If you have been detained, you still have the right to call a lawyer and have the lawyer be with you at all of your hearings. The lawyer will do their best to get you fewer years in jail and a less fine.