“There’s no way I could have dealt with this situation and have achieved the same positive outcome if I had to do it on my own. It’s a very scary and emotional time. And dealing with Immigration New Zealand is very complicated, so you really do need a professional to help with matters like this.”
We recently helped Philip*, a resident visa holder, when he made an error of judgment and was caught driving with excess breath alcohol.
For New Zealand citizens caught drunk driving for the first time, the result is usually a fine and demerit points. But for Philip, as a migrant, it meant potential deportation. That’s obviously a very worrying prospect. Fortunately, Philip found our article about how a minor criminal conviction can result in deportation. With this information at hand, he knew how important it was to seek out immediate expert advice from an immigration lawyer.
“I got hold of Aaron and spoke to him about what had happened,” says Philip. “He was very reassuring and quickly jumped into action.”
Philip explains that he felt like his life was unravelling. “I was really dreading life for a bit after the incident,” he says. “But Aaron was able to get me back to a calm space where I was able to think and carry on with life while he dealt with everything.”
Aaron corresponded with Immigration New Zealand on Philip’s behalf, helping him build a case of good character and demonstrating that Philip’s minor offence did not warrant deportation.
“There’s no way I could have dealt with the situation and have achieved the same positive outcome if I had to do it on my own,” he says. “It’s a very scary and emotional time. And dealing with Immigration New Zealand is very complicated, so you really do need a professional to help with matters like this.”
Philip also says that it’s important not to be embarrassed or let your feelings get in the way of seeking help. “Aaron was very compassionate, professional, and calm. He was also great at communicating, so I always felt like I was up to date with what was happening and knew what to expect next.
“My advice to anyone in the same situation is to get professional help as soon as possible.”
If you’re facing possible deportation after a minor criminal offence, time is of the essence. We strongly recommend seeking expert legal advice as soon as possible.
Contact Aaron Martin, our principal immigration lawyer, for help today.
*Name changed for anonymity
