Crimes of Moral Turpitude (CIMT): What You Need to Know

A Crime of Moral Turpitude (CIMT) is a legal term used mainly in U.S. immigration law.
It refers to crimes that involve dishonesty, fraud, or morally reprehensible behavior.

⚠️ CIMT is not defined by how serious the crime seems — but by the nature of the conduct.

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Common Examples of Crimes of Moral Turpitude

(This is not a complete list)

✔ Theft crimes (shoplifting, grand theft, burglary with intent)
✔ Fraud (credit card fraud, identity theft, insurance fraud)
✔ Forgery
✔ Domestic violence (in many cases)
✔ Certain assault crimes involving intent to cause serious harm
✔ Sexual offenses involving coercion or exploitation

❌ Usually NOT CIMTs (depending on facts):

• Simple DUI (without aggravating factors)
• Minor traffic offenses
• Simple possession of drugs (but still risky for immigration)

👉 Details matter. The exact charge, wording, and plea are critical.

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Why CIMTs Are So Dangerous for Immigrants

A CIMT can affect you even if:

• It’s a misdemeanor
• You didn’t go to jail
• The case feels “minor”

Possible immigration consequences include:

• Deportation (removal proceedings)
• Inadmissibility (can’t re-enter the U.S.)
• Green card denial or revocation
• Citizenship (naturalization) denial

⚠️ Multiple CIMTs or one CIMT within certain time frames can be especially serious.

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Key Mistakes People Make

“It’s just a misdemeanor — it won’t affect my immigration.”

This is one of the most dangerous assumptions a non-citizen can make.

In immigration law, a misdemeanor CIMT can be worse than a felony that is not a CIMT.

Why Legal Strategy Must Start Early

Once you plead guilty or no contest:

• The immigration consequences are often permanent
• Fixing the damage later is extremely difficult

That’s why criminal defense must be immigration-aware from day one.

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Takeaway

It’s not about how small the case feels — it’s about how immigration law classifies it.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and are facing criminal charges, never assume it’s “safe” without legal review.

📞 Perliss Law Firm

‍Criminal Defense & Immigration-Aware Strategy

Free consultations available