Can Immigration Be Affected by a DUI Charge in Goodyear? [2025]

admin·April 8, 2025·0 comments

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Goodyear, Arizona and you’re not a U.S. citizen, you might be wondering: Can immigration be affected by a DUI charge in Goodyear? This is one of the most pressing questions we get at AZ DUI Pros, especially from clients on visas, permanent residents, or those in the middle of green card or naturalization applications.

At AZ DUI Pros, we focus exclusively on DUI defense in Arizona. Our team understands the intersection between state DUI laws and the consequences they may carry for immigration. If you’re facing a DUI and worried about your status, call us now at (602) 922-3755. We’ll walk you through what your options are and help protect your future — both in and out of court.

Let’s break it down and talk about how exactly immigration be affected by a DUI under Arizona law and what this means for anyone caught in the middle of the criminal-immigration crossfire.

Arizona DUI Laws and ARS §28-1381

Arizona Revised Statute §28-1381 outlines the state’s primary DUI laws. It makes it illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle:

  • While impaired to the slightest degree by alcohol, drugs, or any combination,

  • With a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (0.04% for commercial drivers),

  • While under the influence of drugs listed under §13-3401.

For those wondering whether immigration be affected by a DUI, ARS §28-1381 becomes a central point of concern. Even a first-time misdemeanor DUI under this statute can lead to immigration complications, especially for individuals who are not U.S. citizens.

Why Immigration and DUI Charges Collide

You may be surprised to learn that immigration be affected by a DUI, even when the charge is classified as a misdemeanor. That’s because immigration law is governed at the federal level, while DUI is generally prosecuted under state law. However, immigration courts may interpret certain DUI convictions as grounds for inadmissibility, deportability, or ineligibility for immigration benefits.

Situations where immigration be affected by a DUI may include:

  • Green Card Applications: A DUI may be viewed as a negative moral character issue.

  • Adjustment of Status: Especially in cases involving drugs or repeat offenses.

  • Naturalization Delays or Denials: The five-year good moral character requirement may be impacted.

  • Deportation Proceedings: In some cases, a DUI may be considered a crime involving moral turpitude or aggravated felony, depending on the context.

This is why it’s essential to contact AZ DUI Pros at (602) 922-3755 if you’re facing DUI charges and have concerns about your immigration status.

Travel Restrictions and Reentry After a DUI in Arizona

If you’re a non-citizen planning to leave the country after a DUI charge in Arizona, you need to think twice. Many people don’t realize that immigration be affected by a DUI not only during court proceedings but also at ports of entry, visa interviews, and customs checks. For those living in Goodyear, Arizona, this risk is especially important due to the strict handling of DUI offenses under state law.

Can You Travel After a DUI Arrest in Goodyear?

The short answer: it depends. If you are out on bond and facing charges, the court may issue travel restrictions. Even if your criminal case is pending, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of State may take action on your visa or reentry privileges. When traveling internationally, your record is reviewed — and yes, immigration be affected by a DUI even before a conviction is finalized.

Some travelers find themselves denied reentry into the United States, especially if their DUI charge involved drugs or if it resulted in any form of jail time. This is why individuals with student visas, work permits, or TPS should consult with a qualified DUI defense team like AZ DUI Pros before making any travel plans. Call us today at (602) 922-3755 if you’re unsure whether international travel is safe for you.

Post-Conviction Reentry Risks

After a DUI conviction under ARS §28-1381 or ARS §28-1382, even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) have reported reentry delays and additional scrutiny by CBP officers. Why? Because even one misdemeanor DUI conviction may trigger a review of your immigration status, especially if the conviction was recent or classified as an aggravated offense.

Airlines, customs officials, and even foreign consulates may all be alerted to your criminal history depending on the database systems in place. Unfortunately, many travelers only learn the hard way that immigration be affected by a DUI when they are flagged, delayed, or refused reentry at a port of entry.

Travel Tips for Non-Citizens Facing DUI Charges

  • Do not leave the country without legal clearance from your attorney.

  • Keep your court documents and case updates easily accessible.

  • Check if your visa has been revoked or flagged due to your arrest.

  • Understand that travel plans may trigger immigration consequences even for minor offenses.

When in doubt, talk to AZ DUI Pros. We’ll explain how immigration be affected by a DUI and guide you on what to avoid — before it’s too late.

Hypothetical Scenario 1: Student Visa Holder

Ahmed, a 24-year-old graduate student from Egypt, attends Arizona State University and holds an F-1 visa. One night, he’s pulled over in Goodyear for swerving on the road. Officers conduct a field sobriety test, and his BAC is 0.09%. He is arrested and charged under ARS §28-1381(A)(2).

Now, the question arises — can immigration be affected by a DUI charge in Goodyear?

In Ahmed’s case, the answer is yes. His visa status is non-immigrant, which means any criminal conviction — especially a DUI — could be flagged by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Even though it’s a misdemeanor, USCIS may initiate visa revocation or refuse future visa renewals due to concerns about Ahmed’s moral character.

This is a textbook case where immigration be affected by a DUI. Ahmed’s future hinges not just on his criminal case but also on how USCIS evaluates the impact of the offense on his eligibility to remain in the U.S. That’s why hiring an attorney like those at AZ DUI Pros is critical. They understand both state DUI defenses and how they can ripple into federal immigration systems.

Hypothetical Scenario 2: Permanent Resident Applying for Citizenship

Maria, a 37-year-old permanent resident from Mexico, has lived in Goodyear for over 12 years. She has a clean record, works as a dental assistant, and is applying for U.S. citizenship. Just a month before her naturalization interview, she’s stopped for suspected DUI. Her BAC is 0.14%, and she’s charged under ARS §28-1382(A)(1) – an extreme DUI in Arizona.

Now her naturalization process is at risk. So again — can immigration be affected by a DUI charge in Goodyear?

Absolutely. USCIS requires applicants to demonstrate good moral character for five years prior to applying for naturalization. A DUI — especially an extreme DUI — is viewed as a serious offense and could cause her application to be delayed or denied.

This is another case where immigration be affected by a DUI. Maria now needs to navigate both criminal court and potential federal immigration consequences. With the help of AZ DUI Pros, she can seek a plea arrangement that minimizes immigration risks and protects her pathway to citizenship.

How Arizona Courts Treat DUI Charges

Arizona is one of the strictest DUI enforcement states. Even first-time offenders face mandatory jail time, fines, and license suspension. But what’s less commonly known is how much these state-level penalties can ripple into immigration issues.

If you’re facing charges in Goodyear Municipal Court or Maricopa County Justice Court, and you’re not a U.S. citizen, you must ask: Can immigration be affected by a DUI charge in Goodyear? The answer will depend on the charge severity, prior criminal history, and immigration classification.

Don’t navigate this alone — AZ DUI Pros is your best defense, and they can be reached today at (602) 922-3755.

Immigration Status and Types of DUI Offenses

There are several types of DUI charges in Arizona, each with a different potential for immigration consequences:

Each of these may carry different weights when federal immigration authorities evaluate a case. Regardless of the charge, immigration be affected by a DUI when certain aggravating factors are present.

Federal Immigration Triggers

Immigration authorities may view DUI charges through several lenses:

  • Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)

  • Drug-Related Convictions (especially if THC or other controlled substances are involved)

  • Multiple Convictions

  • Sentences Exceeding 365 Days

When these factors are involved, immigration be affected by a DUI and might even lead to ICE detainers or removal proceedings.

The Role of ICE and Detainers in Goodyear DUI Arrests

One of the most frightening realities for non-citizens arrested for DUI in Goodyear is the possibility of ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) involvement. It’s no secret that immigration be affected by a DUI, but the hidden role ICE plays in local Arizona jails adds another layer of risk that many people aren’t prepared for.

What Is an ICE Detainer?

An ICE detainer is a request sent to local law enforcement to hold an individual after they’ve been arrested — even if they post bond — to allow ICE time to assume custody. In Arizona, particularly in Maricopa County and cities like Goodyear, these detainers are routinely issued for immigrants arrested for even misdemeanor DUI charges under ARS §28-1381.

Once ICE assumes custody, the individual can be transferred to a federal immigration detention center where removal (deportation) proceedings may begin. This is how quickly immigration be affected by a DUI — even before your criminal case has reached a verdict.

When Are ICE Detainers Triggered?

  • When someone arrested for DUI has a prior immigration violation

  • When the jail cannot verify a person’s lawful status

  • When the arrest involves drugs, minors in the car, or high BAC levels

  • When the charge escalates to a felony (like under ARS §28-1383 for Aggravated DUI)

Once ICE steps in, the case shifts from just criminal defense to federal immigration defense. This underscores how easily immigration be affected by a DUI when state and federal systems overlap.

Goodyear Police and Immigration Reporting

While Goodyear itself doesn’t have a formal partnership with ICE, arrests in the area often lead to booking at Maricopa County facilities, which do. These facilities share data with federal immigration databases, making it easier for ICE to issue a detainer. This is a key moment when immigration be affected by a DUI, especially for undocumented or visa-holding individuals.

What You Can Do If You’re at Risk of ICE Custody

  • Contact AZ DUI Pros immediately after arrest: (602) 922-3755

  • Avoid speaking with ICE agents without your attorney present

  • Understand your right to fight both the DUI and potential immigration detention

  • Request bond hearings promptly to avoid extended detention

Your DUI defense team must be experienced in both state DUI law and federal immigration issues. At AZ DUI Pros, we understand how fast immigration be affected by a DUI — and we’re ready to act the moment you call.

FAQs

Q: Is a DUI always considered a deportable offense?
A: Not always, but certain circumstances (like drug DUI or felony DUI) increase that risk.

Q: Can I travel internationally after a DUI arrest in Goodyear?
A: Travel may be restricted depending on your status and the severity of the charge.

Q: Will ICE be notified of my DUI arrest?
A: In some counties and courts, yes — particularly if a detainer is issued.

Q: How long does a DUI stay on my record in Arizona?
A: Arizona does not allow for DUI expungement; the conviction remains permanently.

Q: Can a DUI prevent me from renewing DACA?
A: Yes. USCIS may consider it a disqualifying factor for DACA renewal.

Relevant ARS Statutes

Each of these statutes plays a role in determining whether immigration be affected by a DUI. For example, aggravated DUI under ARS §28-1383 is a felony and significantly increases the likelihood of immigration issues.

Conclusion: Call AZ DUI Pros Today

When it comes to DUI defense in Arizona, especially in Goodyear, one thing is clear: immigration be affected by a DUI in more ways than most people realize. If you or a loved one is not a U.S. citizen and has been charged with DUI, you cannot afford to take chances.

Contact AZ DUI Pros today at (602) 922-3755. We will provide you with the legal strategies and immigration-aware defense you need to protect your future.

The answer to “Can immigration be affected by a DUI charge in Goodyear?” is — absolutely. But with the right help, the outcome doesn’t have to define your life or your immigration journey. Call now.

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