How Post Conviction Relief Can Stop ICE From Separating Families
- Shan Potts
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read

A California father was recently detained by ICE after his green card was revoked because of a criminal offense he committed as a teenager. He had lived in the U.S. for years, built a family, paid taxes, and contributed to his community—yet one mistake from his youth came back to threaten everything he had worked for.
Stories like this reveal how harshly immigration laws can treat old convictions, even those from decades ago. What most immigrants don’t realize is that there are legal solutions to protect against this. One of the most powerful tools available is post conviction relief.
Understanding Post Conviction Relief
Post conviction relief allows individuals to reopen or challenge a criminal conviction that is causing harm to their immigration status. This legal process can vacate or modify a conviction when it was entered unfairly—such as when the defendant didn’t understand the immigration consequences of pleading guilty or didn’t receive proper legal counsel.
For immigrants, this can be a game-changer. Once a conviction is vacated through post conviction relief, it no longer counts as a removable offense in the eyes of immigration law. That means the difference between deportation and being allowed to stay in the country legally.
Why It’s Crucial for Immigrants
Many long-term residents and green card holders are shocked to discover that old or minor convictions can suddenly trigger deportation. Crimes involving theft, drugs, or “moral turpitude” can make a person deportable—even if they happened years ago.
But with post conviction relief, there’s a chance to correct the past. By vacating or amending a conviction, you can protect your immigration status, reapply for a green card, or even become eligible for citizenship again. This process not only clears your record but also restores hope for a stable future in the U.S.
How Shan Potts Law Offices Can Help
At Shan Potts Law Offices, we have extensive experience handling post conviction relief for immigrants facing removal due to old convictions. Our attorneys understand the critical link between criminal law and immigration law, allowing us to build strategies that protect both your rights and your residency.
If you or a loved one are facing ICE detention or deportation because of a past mistake, now is the time to act.
Contact Shan Potts Law Offices today to learn how post conviction relief can help you stay with your family and secure your future in the United States.
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