America is a land of opportunity, but for undocumented immigrants facing criminal charges, the stakes can be even higher. The fear of deportation can be a powerful deterrent, often leading individuals to avoid seeking legal counsel. However, understanding the concept of attorney-client privilege is crucial in protecting your rights and navigating the complexities of the immigration system.
Understanding Attorney-Client Privilege in Immigration Cases
All defendants have the right to a public defender who is on their side and fighting for their rights, and all lawyers have an attorney-client confidentiality agreement. Attorney-client confidentiality is a legal rule that protects the confidentiality of communication between a lawyer and their client. The immigration system in the United States is complicated and challenging but when you’re facing criminal charges, you need experienced and dedicated representation with an Indianapolis immigration attorney.
What is Attorney-Client Privilege?
Attorney-client privilege aims to protect confidential communications between a lawyer and their client that relate to the client seeking legal advice. Any information that is exchanged and shared from client to attorney in the course of legal counsel is protected. This privilege also extends to a third party who is essential to the attorney-client relationship, such as an interpreter. Attorney-client privilege is critical to a successful case and working with an Indianapolis deportation defense attorney will ensure that you have all the tools necessary to fight to protect your rights.
How Does Attorney-Client Privilege Protect Undocumented Immigrants?
When it comes to undocumented immigrants facing criminal charges, attorneys are required to maintain their client's immigration status confidential. This means that your lawyer cannot disclose your immigration status to immigration authorities like ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) or USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) without your explicit consent.
When it comes to undocumented immigrants facing criminal charges, it is imperative to reach out to an experienced lawyer, not only with experience in criminal cases but also in immigration cases. An experienced immigration lawyer will be able to help clients navigate the complexities of the charges they face while understanding the attorney-client privileges they have a right to.
When Can a Lawyer Breach Confidentiality?
In general, attorneys are prohibited from breaching the confidentiality of their clients' communications. However, there are specific circumstances where an attorney may be required to disclose information, such as:
- To prevent imminent harm to the client or others.
- To prevent the commission of a crime.
- If compelled to do so by a court order.
Exceptions to Attorney-Client Privilege
While attorney-client privilege is a fundamental right, there are a few exceptions. These exceptions typically involve situations where the client's actions pose a threat to public safety or where the attorney is compelled to disclose information by a court order.
In order to be protected, communications must be made within the context of a legal relationship that is intended to be confidential. Always wait to share details of your case with your attorney until they are established as such. Reaching out to an attorney is in your best interest, but understanding the lines between attorney-client privilege and confidentiality is crucial to a successful case.
Seeking Legal Help without Fear of Deportation
Worrying about your immigration status shouldn’t stop you from seeking compassionate representation. At The Law Office of Jesse K Sanchez, we are a family based immigration law firm where our attorneys can help you understand your rights and work to preserve them. We realize that even if you have faced criminal charges, you may face the consequences of deportation proceedings and it could threaten your ability to become a US citizen. Understanding the legal and emotional complexities of our cases means that our defense attorneys can guide you through every step of the process to protect your future in the United States. Contact us online or by phone at (317) 721-9858 today to start exploring all of the options that are available to you and your loved ones.
