If you’ve been deemed inadmissible to Canada due to a DUI or criminal conviction, you may be considering a Criminal Rehabilitation application or a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) to regain entry. But successfully preparing and filing these applications requires more than just paperwork, it demands a deep understanding of both Canadian immigration law and U.S. criminal law.
Here’s why hiring a lawyer licensed in both the U.S. and Canada is not just recommended, it’s essential.
1. Only Canadian Lawyers Can Represent You in Immigration Matters
When submitting a Criminal Rehabilitation or TRP application, legal representation must comply with Canadian immigration regulations. Only individuals who are licensed to practice law in Canada can formally represent clients before Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
While immigration consultants are permitted to assist, they are not lawyers, and they lack the legal training to analyze the complexities of comparative criminal law. Working with a consultant increases the risk of errors, omissions, and denials.
2. Your Case Requires Comparative Criminal Law Analysis
DUI and criminal inadmissibility applications hinge on how your U.S. conviction is interpreted under Canadian criminal law. This requires:
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A thorough review of the U.S. offense, including statutes, case law, and sentencing.
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A legal comparison to the Canadian Criminal Code to determine severity and equivalency.
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Legal arguments that align with Canadian immigration and rehabilitation standards.
Only an attorney who understands both legal systems can provide this level of analysis.
3. Dual-Licensed Lawyers Are Best Equipped for Success
An attorney licensed in both jurisdictions can:
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Navigate cross-border legal nuances.
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Prepare a comprehensive, well-documented application.
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Anticipate and address legal concerns raised by Canadian authorities.
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Ensure that your application is presented in the most favorable light.
Whether you’re applying for a permanent solution through Criminal Rehabilitation or a short-term TRP for urgent travel, working with a dual-licensed lawyer significantly improves your chances of success.
Conclusion
When it comes to overcoming criminal inadmissibility to Canada due to a DUI or other conviction, legal expertise matters. A lawyer licensed in both the U.S. and Canada offers the knowledge, authority, and cross-border perspective needed to guide you through the process confidently and effectively.
Don’t leave your future travel plans to chance. Partner with a qualified, dual-licensed attorney to ensure your application meets the highest standards of legal scrutiny.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
We Can Help!
You may have questions regarding entry to Canada with a DUI. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
