Saturday, Arizona moved to strike down yet another immigration law. This time, it was a 2005 immigrant smuggling law. Why overturn it? According to Arizona's high court, the law conflicted with the federal government's powers. This ruling is just the latest in a long line of recently overturned immigration laws in Arizona.
The smuggling law was heavily used, especially in Maricopa County. No one seemed to give much notice to the law until more than 2,000 illegal immigrants were charged with conspiracy to smuggle, even though they themselves were the individuals being smuggled.
Some federal judges have even stated that Arizona's immigration laws not only undermine the federal government's efforts, but also promote racial profiling. Some Arizona immigration laws allow law enforcement to ask about a person's immigration status under certain circumstances.
MayesTelles PLLC is uniquely apt to handle criminal cases where there is overlap with immigration law. Many of the attorneys at our firm are bilingual (English and Spanish) and understand the nuances of criminal and immigration law. If you are in the country illegally, have a green card, or are a Hispanic American citizen who has been racially profiled, contact a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer at MayesTelles PLLC for your legal needs. We are here for you 24/7.