Why Experienced Legal Representation Is Crucial in DHS Criminal Cases

When the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is involved in a criminal case, the stakes are very high for the defendant. These cases can touch everything from immigration violations to national security concerns. The consequences for the accused can be life-changing and even lead to deportation. 

So, what does Homeland Security investigate? Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is a federal law enforcement agency under DHS that investigates national security threats, cybercrimes, human trafficking, illegal immigration, and so much more. Whatever you are accused of, having experienced legal help by your side is crucial for the following reasons. 

Complex Cases

DHS criminal investigations often involve multiple federal agencies. HSI often works with:

• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Therefore, DHS cases can easily blur the lines between immigration law, criminal law, and administrative regulations. For someone accused, it is easy to get confused when it comes to procedures, paperwork, and legal terminology. 

An experienced attorney understands how these systems are intertwined. They know how to handle government pressure, spot, and challenge inconsistencies, and ensure your rights are well protected. 

The Consequences Are Severe

What makes DHS criminal cases so serious is the type of consequences they carry. A person can be criminally charged, detained for years, deported, or completely banned from entering the U.S. In some cases, your assets may be confiscated. Immigration benefits like green cards and visas can be denied or revoked. 

Federal sentencing guidelines for DHS criminal cases are harsh, and small mistakes or technical violations can lead to penalties. An experienced attorney can work to prevent these worst-case scenarios from becoming your reality. They will try and identify weaknesses in the government’s case and negotiate more favorable outcomes. 

Immigration and Criminal Law Often Collide

DHS criminal cases are more complicated because they impact the defendant’s immigration status. A conviction, even for a minor offense, can lead to you losing your immigration benefits. Not every criminal defense lawyer understands the immigration bit, and this is why experience is very important. 

A seasoned attorney can build a defense that fights criminal charges and considers how it will affect your future in the U.S. They will help you avoid an outcome that can lead to deportation or irreversible consequences. 

The Federal System Is Not Forgiving

Federal court is very different from local or state court. The procedures, timelines, and expectations are different and very unforgiving. Additionally, federal prosecutors always come well-prepared and have numerous government resources at their disposal. 

Only an attorney who is familiar with DHS proceedings can match this level of preparation. They know how to navigate the case from beginning to end.

Skilled Legal Defense Makes a Difference

In DHS criminal cases, the role of a defense lawyer is not just to stand next to you in court. Attorneys work day and night to determine whether your rights were in any way violated. For example, did the law enforcement violate your rights during a search or interrogation? According to the American Immigration Council, DHS uses tactics to prevent and discourage the accused from getting counsel in their cases. 

Attorneys are familiar with all these issues. They can challenge any evidence that may have been obtained unlawfully and push for charges to be dismissed or reduced. Also, experienced lawyers know how to speak the “language” of federal prosecutors. They will negotiate plea deals, secure bail, and bonds, and reduce the chances of your case going to trial. 

Conclusion

If you are facing DHS criminal charges, the decision of whether or not to get an attorney can affect the outcome of your case. Since these cases are complicated, hiring an attorney gives you a fighting chance.