June 1, 2012 – Coram Nobis relief granted in 12 year old shoplifting case
Facts: In 1998, a non-citizen defendant pled guilty to the Maryland crime of theft under $300. Even though the non-citizen received a probation before judgment, the crime could have supported a charge of deportation. The non-citizen was a green card holder and wanted to apply for citizenship. The non-citizen contacted the firm for help.
The firm’s representation: The firm reviewed our client’s criminal case and discovered that our client had not been represented by counsel and that her right to counsel had been violated. The firm filed a Petition for a Writ of Error Coram Nobis.
Outcome: On June 1, 2012, our client’s coram nobis was granted, and our client pled guilty to petty theft, which has little or no immigration consequences.