When you are going through immigration proceedings, your entire background can come under scrutiny. Many people worry about whether an order of protection could appear during a background check and how it may impact their status in the United States. At Hirsch Law Group, our immigration and criminal defense attorneys understand how stressful this situation can be and are here to guide you through it.

If you are navigating immigration issues in Illinois and are concerned about how past legal matters may affect your case, it’s crucial to know your rights and take steps to protect your future. Below, our experienced attorneys outline all you need to know.

What Is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection is a court order that restricts someone from contacting or going near another person, often in domestic violence situations. In Illinois, these are issued to protect alleged victims of abuse, harassment, or threats.

Even if you were never convicted of a crime, having an order of protection against you can still appear in legal records, which may raise questions during immigration background checks.

Learn more about domestic violence laws in Illinois and how they intersect with immigration concerns.

Do Immigration Officials See Orders of Protection?

Yes, an order of protection can show up in an immigration background check. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and other agencies review criminal and civil court records as part of their process.

While an order of protection is not a criminal conviction, it may still raise red flags, especially if:

  • The order was related to alleged violence or threats.
  • The order led to criminal charges, like violating the order.
  • There is a pattern of multiple legal issues.

Immigration officials may question your moral character or consider whether you pose a risk to public safety, which could impact your application for a visa, green card, or citizenship.

How an Order of Protection Can Impact Immigration Status

The consequences depend on your immigration situation:

  • Green Card Applicants: USCIS conducts extensive background checks, and a history of protective orders may complicate your application.
  • Visa Holders: An order of protection can lead to visa denial or revocation if officials believe you engaged in behavior that violates U.S. laws.
  • Deportation Risk: In some cases, if tied to a criminal charge, an order of protection could contribute to removal proceedings.

That’s why it is essential to work with an attorney who understands both immigration and criminal defense law.

What Can You Do?

If you are concerned about how an order of protection might affect your immigration status:

Get Legal Help Early: Don’t wait until a problem arises. An experienced attorney can help you understand the risks and develop a strategy.
Be Honest in Your Applications: Failing to disclose legal issues can lead to denial or future problems.
Fight Wrongful Orders: If you believe an order of protection was issued unfairly, act quickly to challenge it in court.

Contact Hirsch Law Group Today

Immigration background checks are complex, and an order of protection can create unexpected challenges. At Hirsch Law Group, our attorneys combine experience in criminal defense and immigration law to help Illinois residents protect their rights and their future. Whether you are applying for a green card, seeking citizenship, or fighting removal proceedings, our team is ready to stand by your side.

Contact Hirsch Law Group today to schedule a consultation. With our personalized approach, we can help you navigate the legal system and build a strong strategy to secure your future in the U.S.