Many people worldwide are vying for a chance at U.S. citizenship. Marriage between a U.S. citizen and someone from another country is common. However, when people marry only to receive immigration benefits, it can result in a conviction of marriage fraud.
People convicted of marriage fraud can face prison sentences and fines. If you have been accused of marriage fraud, a Frisco marriage fraud lawyer from our criminal defense team at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you with your case.
What Is Marriage Fraud?
Marriage fraud happens when someone from outside the U.S. marries a U.S. citizen to evade U.S. immigration laws. The consequences of marriage fraud may differ between U.S. citizens and foreign nationals; both parties can be convicted of marriage fraud.
In some cases, one party may be ignorant that marriage fraud occurred. In other cases, both partners know what is happening. For example, if a non-U.S. citizen pays a U.S. citizen to marry them, it could constitute marriage fraud.
Even if there isn’t money involved, a U.S. citizen might marry a non-citizen as a “favor” rather than for legitimate reasons. This couple could also be convicted of marriage fraud, even if no payments were involved.
Suspicious Activity That Can Indicate Marriage Fraud
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may suspect marriage fraud when couples apply for legal permanent resident status for the non-U.S. citizen spouse. Those who commit marriage fraud may think they can fool the government. But the government looks at several components if it is concerned about marriage fraud.
While no single activity proves marriage fraud, it might be suspected based on some of the following components:
- The couple doesn’t live together, and there are no indicators that they intend to do so
- The couple doesn’t have shared bills, bank accounts, or tax statements
- The timing of the relationship, marriage, or green card application is suspicious
- They falsified documents
- The couple does not speak the same language, and there aren’t indicators of attempts to do so
- The couple offers conflicting information about their life together
What Are The Penalties For Marriage Fraud?
The government classifies marriage fraud as a felony. Marriage fraud is a federal crime, and those convicted of it can face up to five years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). You may also face additional charges, such as harboring an alien or visa fraud, which can lead to other penalties.
A conviction of marriage fraud may also impact future interactions with USCIS. For example, if you are a U.S. citizen who committed marriage fraud, it could be very difficult to obtain a green card for a spouse in the future if you marry a foreign national for legitimate reasons. For non-U.S. citizens, marriage fraud can also be cause for deportation.
If someone assists in setting up or assisting with fraudulent marriages, that person can also be convicted of related crimes.
Getting Help From A Frisco Marriage Fraud Attorney
You have the right to hire an attorney if law enforcement accuses you of any crime, including marriage fraud.
Hiring a Frisco marriage fraud attorney may significantly impact the outcome of your case and sentence. A Frisco marriage fraud lawyer will understand the laws and regulations that apply to your case. They can also offer you legal advice based on their knowledge and experience in marriage fraud cases.
A Frisco marriage fraud attorney can help you in several areas if you are facing marriage fraud charges, such as:
- Reviewing the facts surrounding your case, such as the events involved and the specific charges you are facing
- Offering you legal advice about how to move forward with your case.
- Gathering evidence that supports a not-guilty claim.
- Representing you in legal proceedings
- Working toward reducing your sentence or charges
- Keeping you updated about your case and answering your questions
We understand there are many unknowns regarding your case, and you might be unsure if our firm is a good fit for you. We offer all potential clients a free consultation. This consultation lets us review your marriage fraud case and further lets you understand how our firm can help you.
Learn More About Our Law Firm
The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg is proud to serve clients in the Frisco area. We handle various cases in many areas of criminal law, and many of our clients have been satisfied with our services. Here are some examples of what they have said after working with us:
“The law team here is really friendly. They do a real good job with your case. Everything is really easy and can be handled via email or over the phone. When do you have to come in for a visit, the staff are all nice and answer any questions you have. I am very happy that I chose this office to handle my recent court cases.” -Steven
“I used Randall Isenberg and team and was satisfied with the work they did on my case. Randall is a seasoned attorney that is well connected. I highly recommend using him if you have to.” -Kyle
Begin Your Marriage Fraud Case With A Free Consultation Today
A Frisco marriage fraud lawyer at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg is ready to help you with your marriage fraud case. We will build the best possible defense case for you to work towards the best possible outcome.
We will examine the evidence and fight for you every step of the way. Contact us today to begin your case with a free consultation.
