Proving “Good Moral Character” for Deportation Defense in Florida

If you face the threat of deportation, you might want to review some of the most common deportation defense strategies in Palm Beach County. One of the most obvious options during a deportation defense hearing is to establish that you have “good moral character.” But what exactly is good moral character, and what is the official definition of this term according to the United States Citizens and Immigration Services (USCIS)?

Does My Moral Character Even Matter? 

Moral character may become an important factor in your deportation defense, but not always. Some undocumented individuals may not benefit from establishing their good moral character, and perhaps the most obvious example is a convicted criminal. If you have been convicted of a deportable offense, this strategy may be completely ineffective. Instead, you might want to consider alternative options alongside your immigration lawyer. It may help to leave voluntarily in order to keep your options open, as voluntary departure could allow you to re-enter the United States in the future.

In other situations, establishing good moral character could help you remain in the country. If USCIS is on the fence over whether you should be allowed to stay, your good moral character could be a crucial factor that sways their final decision. In order to cancel removal, you generally need to show that you have good moral character and that you have remained in the United States for ten years. Finally, you must show that your removal would create an unusual hardship for a US citizen or permanent resident (usually a family member).

What Is the Definition of Good Moral Character? 

There is no real definition of the term “good moral character” for immigration purposes. This term is highly subjective, and USCIS may determine the nature of your moral character based on your unique circumstances. That being said, a USCIS policy manual states that they will determine whether you “measure up to the standards of average citizens” of your community.

The inclusion of the word “community” is important. You may need to prove that you have helped your community in some way during your time in the United States. This might include volunteer work, such as gathering trash or coaching a kids’ soccer team. You might have become involved in your local church, mosque, or synagogue. If you have been formally recognized for your role in the community, you should bring attention to any awards or accolades. Character references may also help you establish good moral character. These might be friends, supervisors, or work colleagues.

Handle Deportation Defense With The Devore Law Firm 

If you want to approach deportation defense in the most efficient manner possible, consider working with an experienced immigration lawyer in Palm Beach County. Although proving good moral character can certainly help during a deportation hearing, it is not the only viable deportation defense strategy. The most appropriate strategy depends entirely on your unique circumstances – so consider discussing these factors with The Devore Law Group today.

Sources: 

uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-12-part-d-chapter-9

uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-12-part-f