Feds to file lawsuit over Arizona immigration law

[preciousjeni]

Originally Posted by AOII Angel

But breaking a law multiple times is an offense that can get you arrested. There is a difference between acting as if breaking an immigration law is not a big deal and the end of the world. I agree that there is a problem with illegal immigration, but vilifying these people is not the solution. Going on and on and on about how they broke the law is dumb, IMHO.

I think it's more than that. If I'm not mistaken, "illegal" immigration is a civil offense and doesn't become criminal until a person is deported and then returns again without documentation. Like I said, I could be wrong, so I'd appreciate confirmation from someone who knows.

Anyway, speeding can be a criminal offense. So, if illegal immigration is only civil, speeding is worse.

[AOII Angel]

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

I think it's more than that. If I'm not mistaken, "illegal" immigration is a civil offense and doesn't become criminal until a person is deported and then returns again without documentation. Like I said, I could be wrong, so I'd appreciate confirmation from someone who knows.

Anyway, speeding can be a criminal offense. So, if illegal immigration is only civil, speeding is worse.

That's a good point. Where's MysticCat?
BTW, being illegally in the country has never killed anyone, but speeding has sure resulted in lots of deaths. That also makes speeding worse. :P

[PiKA2001]

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

If I'm not mistaken, "illegal" immigration is a civil offense and doesn't become criminal until a person is deported and then returns again without documentation. Like I said, I could be wrong, so I'd appreciate confirmation from someone who knows.

Inadmissibility/Deportation charges under section 212 and 237 of the INA are administrative but can lead to criminal charges if the alien is deemed to be a criminal alien, i.e. making false claims, smuggling, etc. Illegal entry following a deportation order is a criminal offense. Immigration law is pretty complex and murky, to really get into it would take a whole thread.

BTW, I'd much rather deal with a speeding ticket than served with a NTA for an immigration hearing. Not fun at all.