Understanding Immigration Laws In Los Angeles

According to a recent Vera study, the foreign-born population in the Los Angeles metro accounts for a staggering 33% of the total population. With over 4.4 million immigrants in the area, it can often be confusing to navigate the city’s immigration laws. California goes above and beyond to protect its immigration population by passing a wide array of laws to expand and protect the rights of immigrants. The experts at Real Deal Attorneys strive to make finding an immigration lawyer in Los Angeles as easy as possible. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to helping you understand the immigration laws in Los Angeles and throughout California.

Immigration Laws In Los Angeles

Rob Bonta, the current California Attorney General, is responsible for overseeing the implementation of immigration laws that impact Los Angeles law enforcement agencies. Below you will find summaries of some of the most recent laws affecting immigration.

California Transparent Review Of Unjust Transfers And Holds Act

Effective in January 2017, the Transparent Review of Unjust Transfers and Holds (TRUTH) Act ensures that people in the custody of Los Angeles law enforcement have information about their rights if federal immigration authorities seek out the individual. This includes the right to due process and the right to an attorney. Detained individuals will receive a written consent form detailing that the interview is voluntary and why they are being interviewed by law enforcement. The TRUTH Act also established an oversight committee to ensure law enforcement agencies comply with the act. It was put into place to ensure that immigrants have access to the same rights as everybody else in California.

California Racial And Identity Profiling Act

Effective in 2016, the California Racial and Identity Profiling Act (AB 953) was set in place to protect individuals from racial and identity profiling by law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles and throughout the state. The main focus of this act is to hold local law enforcement agencies responsible for recording the race and ethnicity of individuals they stop, search, or arrest. This data is then used to study possible patterns in racial and identity profiling and create plans to correct the issues. The Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board oversees AB 953 to eliminate racial and identity profiling while promoting diversity and providing sensitivity training among law enforcement agencies.

California Immigrant Victims Of Crime Equity Act

Also effective since 2016, the California Immigrant Victims of Crime Equity Act works to protect victims of serious crimes from deportation. Law enforcement agencies have to show that they are actively or have already assisted in the investigation and prosecution of the crime. This act is designed to make immigrant victims feel more comfortable about reporting crimes to authorities without the fear of deportation. If they agree to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, they may qualify for a U-visa. Eligibility for a U-visa includes:

• They are the victim of qualifying criminal activity.
• They suffered extensive physical or mental abuse due to criminal activity.
• They have information about serious criminal activity.
• They are admissible to the United States.
• The crime violates United States laws or occurred in the United States.

California Transparency And Responsibility Using State Tools Act

Effective in January 2014, the Transparency and Responsibility Using State Tools (TRUST) Act defines how long and why an individual can be held by local law enforcement agencies past their release date for detainment purposes. The TRUST Act is especially helpful for those individuals who were arrested or convicted of minor crimes now facing ICE deportation due to their offenses. With seven out of ten immigrants in California deported with no criminal or minor convictions, the TRUST Act was set in place to help rebuild the trust between immigrants and local law enforcement agencies. If local agencies want to comply with an ICE detainer request, they must ensure that they comply with federal, state, and local laws and policies. They must also prove that they continue to hold the individual past their release date for specific criminal activity.

FAQs About Immigration Laws In Los Angeles

While there are many acts in place to protect immigrants in Los Angeles, navigating immigration law can be intimidating. Because of its complexity, it is always in your best interest to consult with immigration lawyers in Los Angeles. Real Deal Attorney’s service provides you with many benefits because it connects you with top-rated attorneys in Los Angeles. Common questions about immigration law include:

Why Do Immigrants Get Deported?

Immigrants most commonly face deportation when they are convicted of a crime. Other reasons for deportation include failing to follow their visa terms and if they are found to be an illegal resident of Los Angeles. Certain convictions lead to mandatory deportation, while others may be considered for deportation relief.

Can Law Enforcement Agencies Ask About Immigration Status?

While officers can ask about your immigration status, you have the right to remain silent, as is protected by the TRUTH Act. If you feel pressured to disclose your immigration status to law enforcement, remain silent and ask to speak to an attorney.

What Is The Difference Between A Visa And A Green Card?

Though they are often used interchangeably, visas and green cards are very different. Visas allow individuals into the United States for a specifically stated reason for a set amount of time. Many people seek out visas for school, work, and vacation. Green cards, on the other hand, grant permanent residency status to reside in the country legally.

Immigration Lawyers In Los Angeles

Finding a lawyer qualified to handle immigration laws can be difficult. However, using the Real Deal Attorneys lawyer locator service makes it easy. Our directory and referral service connects you with quality lawyers who have the knowledge and skills to navigate your immigration case. Having local legal representation ensures that your attorney is well-versed in Los Angeles-specific immigration laws. A qualified attorney can easily explain your case and explore your best options.

Real Deal Attorneys carefully vet all lawyers through background checks and reviews of their qualifications. If you have any questions about our search services, call Real Deal Attorneys at (424)-367-1271 today!