Serving Houston, TX Since 1995
Alien Smuggling Lawyer in Michigan
Federal Defense for Alien Smuggling and Immigration-Related Offenses
Federal law enforcement agencies continue to increase their scrutiny of immigration-related offenses in Michigan, especially near the Canadian border. If you have been charged with alien smuggling, harboring undocumented individuals, or transporting non-citizens across the border, you may face serious federal charges under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and other sections of the U.S. Code.
At Guy L. Womack & Associates, P.C., we focus exclusively on federal criminal defense. Our firm represents individuals charged with immigration-related offenses in both the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, Flint, Bay City, Kalamazoo, Marquette, and Lansing.
Alien smuggling allegations can lead to harsh penalties, including prison and deportation. Call our firm today at (713) 364-9913 or send us a message online to protect your rights and discuss your defense options.
Cross-Border Immigration Charges Near the Canadian Border
Michigan’s proximity to Canada makes it a frequent site of federal investigations into alleged immigration crimes. Cross-border movement of undocumented individuals—whether intentional or not—can result in felony-level charges. These cases often involve multiple federal agencies, including:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- U.S. Border Patrol
Federal prosecutors are known to pursue these cases aggressively, especially when they involve repeat border crossings, large groups of individuals, or alleged financial gain.
Federal Statutes Related to Alien Smuggling
Our firm defends clients charged under the following key federal statutes:
Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
This statute criminalizes knowingly bringing or attempting to bring unauthorized individuals into the U.S., transporting them within the country, or harboring them after unlawful entry. Penalties increase based on factors such as:
- Financial gain or payment
- Prior criminal convictions
- Endangerment of others during transport
- Serious bodily injury or death
A single violation can carry up to 10 years in federal prison, and longer in aggravated circumstances.
Improper Entry by an Alien (8 U.S.C. 1325)
While this statute generally applies to individuals unlawfully entering the country, it may also be used to support broader investigations involving transportation or conspiracy.
Reentry After Removal (8 U.S.C. 1326)
If an individual reenters the U.S. after being deported and you are accused of assisting them in that process, you may be implicated in further criminal conduct, even if unintentionally.
Conspiracy (18 U.S.C. 371)
Even if no actual smuggling occurred, an agreement to engage in unlawful transport or harboring may lead to federal conspiracy charges.
Consequences of an Alien Smuggling Conviction
Alien smuggling offenses carry severe federal penalties, especially if the government alleges that the defendant profited from the act or placed others in danger. A conviction may lead to:
- Up to 10 years in federal prison for each person smuggled
- Mandatory minimums if serious injury or death occurred
- Asset forfeiture of vehicles or property used in the act
- Ineligibility for future immigration benefits
- Removal or deportation (for non-citizen defendants)
Because the stakes are high, early intervention from a qualified federal defense attorney is essential.
Alien smuggling cases carry serious federal consequences. Contact us at (713) 364-9913 to speak with a Michigan attorney who defends immigration-related charges across all federal courts.
Where Winning Matters
We Have the Experience You Can Count On
-
$2 Million Settlement Obtained for Grieving Family
-
Criminal Charges Dropped $300,000 of Equipment and Funds Were Misplaced, Disposed of And/Or Taken
State of Texas v. SM
-
$4 Million Settlement Recovered for Electrocution Victim
-
$4.85 Million Settlement Recovered for Victim of Sexual Assault
-
All Charges Dismissed 7 Indictments of Sexual Molestation of Neighborhood Children
State of Texas v. B.H.
-
No Criminal Charges Filed Aggravated Assault
U.S. v. LTC GW
Our Approach to Federal Immigration Offenses
At Guy L. Womack & Associates, P.C., we approach every case with a detailed strategy tailored to the federal court system. Our work begins with a comprehensive review of the evidence, including surveillance reports, witness testimony, and alleged border crossings.
Our defense approach includes:
- Challenging the basis of the traffic stop or arrest
- Disputing the government’s claim of “knowing” involvement
- Examining the legality of searches, seizures, and interrogations
- Contesting conspiracy allegations based on weak associations
- Negotiating reduced charges or sentencing alternatives when appropriate
Our firm’s deep familiarity with federal immigration statutes, homeland security protocols, and courtroom strategy allows us to build strong defenses for clients across the state. If you are under investigation or have been charged with alien smuggling in Michigan, the consequences are too serious to face without experienced legal help.
Contact us at (713) 364-9913 to schedule a confidential consultation with a Michigan federal immigration defense attorney. We are available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and begin building your defense.