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DUI reduced to wet reckless

People v. J.W., (2020, in Victorville, California)

Client was charged with DUI with a BAC of 0.16%. Client is a union employee in Las Vegas who drives a commercial vehicle on the job and faced the loss of his well-paying job and health insurance for his cancer-stricken daughter if convicted of DUI.

Adjustment Application Granted and Permanent Residence Conferred

Matter of V.H. (2020)

V.H. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been arrested for battery constituting domestic violence in violation of Nevada law and subsequently placed in removal proceedings by the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”). As the father of a U.S. citizen, V.H. was able to obtain “immediate relative” status by the filing of a Petition for Alien Relative (“Form I-130”) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”), which the agency subsequently approved. After approval of the Form I-130, we filed on V.H.’s behalf a complete adjustment application at the Las Vegas Immigration Court. Satisfied with the evidence presented in the case, the presiding immigration judge granted V.H.’s adjustment application. V.H. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Deportation Proceedings Reopened and Terminated; Adjustment Application Granted

Matter of L.B.H.

L.B.H is a native and citizen of El Salvador who had been ordered deported in absentia back in 1997. This came to light after he had affirmatively sought adjustment with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). We prepared and filed a Motion to Rescind an in Absentia Order and Reopen Deportation Proceedings, arguing lack of notice of the hearing that L.B.H. failed to attend in 1997, which resulted in the deportation order. The immigration judge reopened L.B.H.’s deportation proceedings and subsequently agreed to termination of the proceedings after we presented proof of the adjustment application that had been administratively closed by USCIS on account of the previous outstanding deportation order of deportation. After the proceedings were terminated, we moved to reopen the administratively closed adjustment application. USCIS reopened the application and granted it. L.B.H. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Lawful Permanent Residence Granted

Matter of F.Z. (2020)

F.Z is a native and citizen of the Philippines who married a U.S. citizen. Her U.S. citizen spouse sought our help to bring F.Z. from the Philippines to the United States as a lawful permanent resident. We handled everything from the filing of the initial family petition all the way through consular processing. F.Z. was issued an immigrant visa and has been admitted to the United States as a lawful permanent resident.

Lawful Permanent Residence Granted

Matter of R.L. (2020)

R.L. is a native and citizen of the Mexico who had been brought to the United States as a small child, never having been inspected or admitted to the country by an immigration official. He was, however, the derivative beneficiary of a Petition for Alien Relative (“Form I-130”) filed more than nineteen years ago by his uncle on behalf of his father. Recently married to a U.S. citizen, R.L reached out to us for assistance on what could be done to help R.L. obtain permanent resident status. We explained that as the beneficiary of a family-based petition filed before 30 April 2001 he would be able to seek adjustment under section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. We put together a complete adjustment packet, making sure to include all of the evidence needed to establish the additional elements that apply in the context of 245(i) adjustment. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted R.L.’s adjustment application, and R.L. is now a permanent resident of the United States.

Removal proceedings terminated

Matter of B.C.V. (2020)

B.C.V. is a native and citizen of the Philippines who had been convicted of attempt lewdness with a minor under the age of 16 in violation of Nevada law. As a result of this conviction, the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) initiated removal proceedings, charging B.C.V. as an alien deportable pursuant to section 237(a)(2)(A)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (as having been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude committed within five years after admission for which a sentence of one year or longer may be imposed) and two counts under section 237(a)(2)(A)(iii) of the Act (as having been convicted of aggravated felonies). After several motions to dismiss (punctuated by a successful appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals), we were able to get the removal proceedings terminated on the basis that the Nevada law under which B.C.V. was convicted did not categorically correspond with any of the grounds of removability that DHS had charged B.C.V. with.

Hardship waiver approved and lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of H.L. (2020)

H.L. is a native and citizen of Vietnam who had been found inadmissible under section 212(a)(6)(C)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act because of a misunderstanding that had been construed as a “material misrepresentation” by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). After being informed that she could file an Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility (“Form I-601”), she sought our help. We prepared the filing and explained in a detailed memorandum of law why the denial of a waiver of inadmissibility would result in extreme hardship to her United States citizen spouse. Satisfied with the evidence presented and the arguments made on her behalf, USCIS granted H.L.’s Form I-601 and subsequently granted her adjustment of status application.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of A.V.H (2020)

A.V.H. is a native and citizen of the Netherlands who had entered the United States with an E2 nonimmigrant visa. He was the beneficiary of an approved Petition for Alien Relative (“Form I-130”) filed by his mother on his behalf. When A.V.H. met with us, he wanted to know what the next steps would be. After carefully reviewing the relevant facts, we explained that A.V.H. would actually be able to adjust status in the United States pursuant to section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act since the priority date on the Form I-130 was current and none of the bars to adjustment set out in section 245(c) of the Act were applicable. Accordingly, we helped A.V.H. file a complete adjustment filing with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). The agency granted the adjustment application, and A.V.H. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of P.S. (2020)

P.S., a native and citizen of Thailand, had entered the United States with a B2 nonimmigrant visa (commonly known as a “tourist visa”). During her stay here in the United States, P.S. fell in love with a United States citizen. Both P.S. and her husband sought our help to adjust P.S.’s status to that of a lawful permanent resident. We helped prepare an adjustment filing that properly documented the bona fides of P.S.’s relationship with her husband and that contained the evidence needed to meet P.S.’s burden of establishing admissibility to the United States. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted P.S.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. P.S. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Ex-felon in possession of a firearm charge dismissed

State v. T.O. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2019)

Our client was charged with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. During the preliminary hearing, Las Vegas Defense Group argued that no one saw our client with the gun, and that the gun was wrapped in a shirt that did not belong to our client. The judge agreed that there was no probable cause linking our client to the gun, and the charge was dismissed.

Battery domestic violence charge dismissed

City v. K.G. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2019)

K.G. was charged with battery domestic violence, which is very difficult to get dismissed in Nevada. But Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss the case once K.G. completed counseling, paid a fine, and avoided further arrests. Now K.G. is free to get the criminal record sealed.

Battery charge dismissed

State v. S.G. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2019)

P.D. was charged with battery. Las Vegas Defense Group showed the prosecutors that their evidence is too weak to support a conviction, and the charge was dismissed.

Battery charge dismissed

City v. S.G. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2019)

S.G. was charged with battery. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the prosecutor to drop the charges completely.

Driver’s license suspension lifted

Matter of D.K. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2019)

The Nevada DMV revoked D.K.’s driver’s license for one year for allegedly failing to submit to an evidentiary test following a DUI arrest. Las Vegas Defense Group demonstrated that the facts do not show that D.K. refused to take the test. The DMV reinstated the driver’s license.

Battery domestic violence to be dismissed

City v. I.R. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2019)

I.R. was charged with battery domestic violence, which are notoriously difficult to plea bargain down. Following negotiations, the prosecutor agreed to reduce it to the minor charge of disturbing the peace. Then once I.R. pays the fine, the case will be dismissed completely so he will have no convictions for anything.

Felony hit-and-run reduced to traffic tickets

State v. I.V. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2019)

I.V. was being investigated for hit-and-run causing an injury, which is a felony. IV was also faced with a misdemeanor charge of driving on a revoked license. Following a negotiation with police officers, I.V. only had to pay two traffic tickets.

Traffic ticket for “failure to obey” dismissed

State v. J.T. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2019)

J.T. received a traffic ticket for failure to obey. The prosecutor refused to dismiss the charge, so Las Vegas Defense Group pressed for trial. Prior to trial, the prosecutor dismissed the case.

Application for Asylum granted

Matter of W.D.V. (2019)

W.D.V. is a native and citizen of Venezuela who entered the United States, fleeing political persecution from his native country. He initially contracted the service of an “immigration consultant” to assist with the preparation an Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal (“Form I-589”). That consultant, however, failed to update U.S. Citizenship and Immigration and Services (“USCIS”) with W.D.V.’s new address despite assuring the latter that he would. Consequently, W.D.V. was placed in removal proceedings after failing to attend his asylum interview. While removal proceedings were pending, W.D.V.’s family, who had remained in Venezuela, eventually had to flee Venezuela because the situation had become untenable even for them. They sought asylum at the Mexican border, were paroled in, and also placed in removal proceedings. At this point, W.D.V. sought the assistance of Las Vegas Defense Group to assist with the complicated situation that he and his family found themselves in. We succeeded in consolidating the two cases and in litigating W.D.V.’s asylum application. Satisfied with the evidence presented in support of W.D.V’s application for relief, the presiding immigration judge granted W.D.V.’s asylum application (which applied to W.D.V’s family as well since they qualified as derivatives of W.D.V’s application).

Citizenship granted

Matter of M.B.O. (2019)

M.B.O. is a native of Mexico who was admitted to the United States as a lawful permanent resident. He sought the help of Las Vegas Defense Group to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). He had previously been convicted of domestic violence in violation of Arizona law and was concerned that this conviction would result in the denial of his Form N-400. We explained how M.B.O.’s conviction did not preclude him from establishing good moral character. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) agreed, approved M.B.O. for naturalization, and he has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Application for Deferral of Removal granted

Matter of F.N.B. (2019)

F.N.B. is a native and citizen of the Philippines who had been granted lawful permanent residence in the United States over two decades ago. But after sustaining a conviction for battery resulting in substantial bodily harm in violation of Nevada law and serving a two-year term of imprisonment, F.N.B. was placed in removal proceedings by the Department of Homeland Security. Because of his struggle with drug abuse and his criminal history of drug-related offenses, F.N.B. feared that he would fall victim to the Duterte Administration’s “War on Drugs” if he were removed to the Philippines. We filed an Application for Deferral of Removal under the Convention Against Torture on F.N.B.’s behalf, arguing that it was more likely than not that F.N.B. would be tortured if removed to the Philippines. Satisfied with the evidence presented in support of the application for relief, the presiding immigration judge granted F.N.B.’s Application for Deferral of Removal under the Convention Against Torture.

Bond granted

Matter of C.L.F. (2019)

C.L.F. is a native and citizen of Brazil who had been convicted of operating a motor vehicle under the influence in violation of Massachusetts law and was then arrested for battery constituting domestic violence in violation of Nevada law just a few months thereafter. After posting a bond to get out of criminal custody for the most recent arrest, C.L.F was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security refused to release C.L.F. We filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on his behalf, arguing that C.L.F. did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge set a bond. C.L.F. was released from immigration custody after posting this bond.

Bond granted

Matter of V.R.R. (2019)

V.R.R. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been convicted of battery constituting domestic violence in violation of Nevada law and had been most recently arrested for driving under the influence in violation of Nevada law. After he was released from criminal custody, V.R.R. was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security refused to release V.R.R., finding him a danger to the community. We filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on his behalf, arguing that V.R.R. did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge set a bond. V.R.R. was released from immigration custody after posting this bond.

Bond granted

Matter of R.G.G.M. (2019)

R.G.G.M is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been arrested for driving under the influence in violation of Nevada law. After he was released on his own recognizance in the pending criminal case, he was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security refused to release R.G.G.M. on a bond. We filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on his behalf, arguing that R.G.G.M did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge set a bond. R.G.G.M was released from immigration custody after posting this bond.

Bond granted

Matter of C.C.J. (2019)

C.C.J. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been convicted of battery constituting domestic violence in violation of California law and had been arrested again for battery constituting domestic violence in violation of Nevada law. After he was released from criminal custody, C.C.J. was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security initially refused to release C.C.J., finding him a danger to the community. We filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on his behalf, arguing that C.C.J. did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Prior to the bond hearing, we conferred with the attorney from the Department of Homeland Security handling the case and a bond setting was agreed upon. The presiding immigration judge followed the stipulation of the parties and granted bond.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of A.W. (2019)

A.W., a native and citizen of New Zealand, had entered the United States with an F1 nonimmigrant visa. During the course of her studies, A.W. fell in love with a United States citizen. Both A.W. and her husband sought Las Vegas Defense Group’s help to adjust A.W.’s status to that of a lawful permanent resident. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted A.W.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. A.W. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of J.T.P. (2019)

J.T.P. is a native and citizen of Thailand who had recently entered the United States with a B2 nonimmigrant visa (i.e., a “tourist visa”). Not too long after his arrival, J.T.P. fell in love with A.W., a United States citizen. A.W. knew in just a few months that J.T.P. is the man he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Accordingly, A.W. proposed to J.T.P. and they wed shortly thereafter. They then sought our help in preparing an adjustment filing. J.T.P., however, was concerned because of how quickly he and A.W. had married after the former’s entry as a tourist. We helped prepare an adjustment of status application that documented the bona fides of J.T.P.’s marriage with his United States citizen husband and that served to dispel any notion that J.T.P. had “immigrant intent” either when he initially secured his B2 tourist visa or when he most recently entered the United States with that visa. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted J.T.P.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. J.T.P. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of Q.D. (2019)

Q.D. is a native and citizen of Vietnam who had entered the United States several years ago with an F1 nonimmigrant visa (i.e., a “student visa”). She sought the aid of us after she married her second husband because she wanted to adjust her status on the basis of her marriage to a U.S. citizen. Q.D. was concerned, however, because she had unsuccessfully attempted to adjust on the basis of her first marriage. At that time, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) had pressured her first husband to withdraw the Petition for Alien Relative (“Form I-130”) because a number of issues had arisen during the interview that led the agency to suspect marriage fraud. Because the Form I-130 had been withdraw, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (“Form I-485”) was denied. Q.D. was therefore concerned that this episode that had happened a few years back would adversely impact any future filed adjustment application. We carefully reviewed the case first to assess whether the “marriage fraud bar” under section 204(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act applied. Having discovered that the agency had not affirmatively made any finding of marriage fraud in respect to the first marriage, we explained to Q.D. that while there was no bar that automatically applied, the matter of Q.D.’s first marriage involved thorny issues that needed to be addressed because it would almost surely be a subject of discussion at the interview on the second adjustment filing. Sure enough it was, but Q.D. was sufficiently prepared to explain to the agency under oath the circumstances surrounding her first marriage and how that marriage too had been bona fide but had fallen apart for other reasons. USCIS was satisfied with Q.D.’s answers and, content with the evidence included in the second adjustment filing, it granted Q.D.’s Form I-485. Q.D. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Conditions on lawful permanent residence removed

Matter of E.M.C. (2019)

E.M.C. is a native and citizen of El Salvador who had adjusted her status to that of a lawful permanent resident on the basis of her marriage with a U.S. citizen. However, because the marriage was less than two years old at the time her status was adjusted, her permanent resident status was conferred on a “conditional” basis. Accordingly, within the 90-day period prior to when her status expired, E.M.C. sought our’s assistance in preparing and filing the Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence (“Form I-751”). We helped ensure that the supporting evidence was sufficient to meet E.M.C.’s burden of proving that she entered into marriage with her U.S. citizen husband in good faith. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) agreed and granted E.M.C.’s Form I-751, removing the conditions on her permanent resident status.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of B.T. (2019)

B.T. is a native and citizen of Brazil who entered the United States with a K1 nonimmigrant visa (colloquially referred to as the “fiancé visa”). After marrying her petitioning fiancé, she and her husband sought the help of us to adjust B.T.’s status to that of a lawful permanent resident. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted B.T.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. B.T. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Citizenship granted

Matter of S.M.T. (2019)

S.M.T. is a native of Peru who was admitted to the United States as a lawful permanent resident. He sought the help of us to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). He had previously been convicted of driving under the influence in violation of Nevada law and was concerned of the impact this conviction might have on his Form N-400. We explained how S.M.T.’s conviction did not preclude him from establishing good moral character. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) agreed, approved S.M.T. for naturalization, and he has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Bond granted

Matter of O.L.R. (2019)

O.L.R. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been convicted for battery in violation of California law and had been most recently arrested for open and gross lewdness in violation of Nevada law. After he was released on his own recognizance in the pending criminal case, he was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security refused to release O.L.R. on a bond. We filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on his behalf, arguing that O.L.R. did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge set a bond. O.L.R. was released from immigration custody after posting this bond.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of R.R.L. (2019)

R.R.L. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had entered the United States with an H1A work visa. While in the United States, he fell in love with and married a United States citizen. He subsequently sought helpto adjust his status to that of a lawful permanent resident. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) ultimately granted R.R.L.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. R.R.L. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Citizenship granted

Matter of F.O. (2019)

F.O., is a native and citizen of the El Salvador who after being a lawful permanent resident for more than 20 years sought aid to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). He had previously been convicted of driving under the influence in violation of Georgia law and was concerned of the impact this conviction might have on his Form N-400. He was also concerned about his ability to satisfy the English language requirement. We explained that he would be exempt from the English language requirement because he was over 50 years of age and had been a permanent resident for over 20 years. we further explained how F.O’s conviction did not preclude him from establishing good moral character. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) agreed, approved F.O. for naturalization, and he has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Citizenship granted

Matter of D.S. (2019)

D.S., a native and citizen of the Philippines who had been admitted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States, sought aid to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). We prepared the Form N-400 filing, prepared D.S. for her interview, and attended the interview with D.S. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) approved her for naturalization, and she has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Citizenship granted

Matter of E.M.D.M. (2019)

E.M.D.M., a native and citizen of the Mexico who had been admitted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States, sought our help to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). She had recently been convicted of driving under the influence in violation of Arizona law and was concerned that this conviction would result in the denial of her Form N-400. We prepared the Form N-400 filing, taking special efforts to explain in a memorandum of law why E.M.D.M.’s conviction did not preclude her from establishing good moral character. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) agreed, approved E.M.D.M. for naturalization, and she has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Citizenship granted

Matter of E.C.A. (2019)

E.C.A., a native and citizen of the Philippines who had been admitted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States, sought our help to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). We prepared the Form N-400 filing, prepared E.C.A. for his interview, and attended the interview with E.C.A. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) approved him for naturalization, and he has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of S.V.G. (2019)

S.V.G. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had entered the United States with a B2 tourist visa as a young child. She was, however, “waved through” by the immigration official and thus never received a stamp in her passport or any other official documentation to prove that she lawfully entered the United States. Married to a United States citizen, she sought our help to apply for adjustment of status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). We carefully prepared the case and included in the adjustment filing a detailed memorandum of law that explained how the evidence provided was sufficient to meet S.V.G.’s burden of proving that she presented herself to immigration authorities in a “procedurally regular manner” and was thus “inspected and admitted” to the United States. See Matter of Quilantan, 25 I&N Dec. 285 (BIA 2010). Upon review of the evidence furnished and the arguments presented, USCIS granted S.V.G.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. S.V.G. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Removal proceedings avoided

Matter of R.R.B. (2019)

R.R.B. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been admitted to the United States as a lawful permanent resident when she was a minor. After being convicted of battery with substantial bodily harm in violation of Nevada law decades thereafter, she was sentenced to a term of imprisonment in the Nevada Department of Corrections. As R.R.B. was nearing the end of her term of imprisonment, she learned that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) had placed a detainer on her (colloquially referred to as an “ICE hold”) and intended to initiate removal proceedings upon her release from criminal custody. When this information was conveyed to R.R.B.’s family, they contacted our immigration attorney with this distressing news. Upon examining the case and learning all relevant facts, our immigration attorney determined that R.R.B. had automatically derived United States citizenship pursuant to section 320 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Our immigration attorney immediately prepared an Application for Certificate of Citizenship (“Form N-600”) and filed it with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). Upon receiving the receipt from USCIS, our immigration attorney immediately prepared correspondence to the local ICE office in Las Vegas that included the Form N-600 pending with USCIS, all relevant supporting documentation to support R.R.B.’s claim to citizenship, and legal argument explaining how R.R.B. had met all of the elements under section 320 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The local ICE office reviewed all of the supporting documents and lifted the detainer that it had placed on R.R.B. Removal proceedings were never initiated, and R.R.B. has finally received her Certificate of Citizenship.

Bond granted

Matter of B.A.S.R. (2019)

B.A.S.R. is a native and citizen of Mexico who entered the United States in 2004. He had been convicted twice for battery constituting domestic violence in violation of Nevada law a few years thereafter. He had most recently been arrested again for battery constituting domestic violence. After posting bail in the criminal case, he was taken into custody by the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) and removal proceedings were initiated. At the time of his initial bond hearing, the battery domestic violence charge had been pending. Finding B.A.S.R. a danger to the community on the basis of the two previous convictions for battery domestic violence and a pending charge for the same, the immigration judge initially denied bond. However, the pending charge was ultimately “denied” by the City of Las Vegas Attorney’s Office, which had decided to not prosecute B.A.S.R. With proof that the City Attorney’s Office had decided not to prosecute B.A.S.R., our immigration attorney filed a second custody redetermination hearing in which he argued that there had been a “material” change in circumstances under 8 C.F.R. § 1003.19(e). After reviewing this proof along with the additional supporting evidence submitted with the bond request, the presiding immigration judge was satisfied that B.A.S.R. did not pose a danger to the community and set a bond in the case.

Hardship waiver approved and lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of N.O.C. (2019)

N.O.C. is a native and citizen of Mexico who last entered the United States with a B2 tourist visa over a decade ago. On the basis of her marriage to a United States citizen, N.O.C. sought to adjust her status to that of a lawful permanent resident. After her initial interview, however, she was found inadmissible under section 212(a)(9)(B)(i)(II) of the Immigration and Nationality Act by virtue of the fact that she had previously entered the United States with her B2 visa, overstayed beyond the period of authorized stay, and had then reentered the United States again as a tourist before she had spent 10 years outside of the country. On her behalf, our immigration attorney prepared an Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility (“Form I-601”) and explained in a detailed memorandum of law why the denial of a waiver of this ground of inadmissibility would result in extreme hardship to her United States citizen spouse. Satisfied with the evidence presented and the arguments made on her behalf, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted N.O.C.’s Form I-601 and subsequently granted N.O.C.’s Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (“Form I-485”). N.O.C. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of N.T.V. (2019)

N.T.V. is a native and citizen of Brazil who had entered the United States with a B2 tourist visa several years ago and had overstayed beyond the period of authorized stay. Married to a United States citizen, she sought to fix her immigration status but was concerned because of the visa overstay. Our immigration attorney explained to her that as the “immediate relative” of a United States citizen (as that term is defined in the Immigration and Nationality Act), she would still be eligible to adjust her status. Accordingly, on her behalf, our immigration attorney filed an adjustment of status application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). Our immigration attorney also prepared both N.T.V. and her husband for the adjustment interview and accompanied them to this interview. USCIS granted N.T.V.’s adjustment application under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. N.T.V. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Lawful permanent residence granted

Matter of R.M.M. (2019)

R.M.M. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been granted a U visa. After residing continuously in the United States for three years, she sought our immigration attorney’s assistance in the preparation and filing of an adjustment of status application. After securing all of the necessary supporting documentation—which included evidence that R.M.M. had not “unreasonably refused” to provide assistance to the Clark County District Attorney’s Office in the prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity that resulted in her U nonimmigrant status—our immigration attorney prepared a comprehensive filing that explained why R.M.M. is statutorily eligible to adjust status under section 245(m) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and why she merited adjustment in the exercise of discretion. USCIS granted R.M.M.’s adjustment application under section 245(m), and R.M.M. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Citizenship granted

Matter of Y.K. (2019)

Y.K., a native and citizen of Russia who had been admitted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States several decades ago, sought the aid of our immigration attorney to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). Y.K. had been concerned about filing the Form N-400 because during the relevant five-year period, she had taken a seven-month trip abroad to Russia to care for her ailing mother. Our immigration attorney prepared the Form N-400 filing, which included a detailed memorandum of law in which our immigration attorney argued that if the agency took into account all of the factors set out in 8 C.F.R. § 316.5(c)—the regulation that sets out a non-exhaustive list of factors for adjudicators to consider when assessing whether a lawful permanent resident’s absence in excess of six months constitutes a disruption in continuous residence—it should find that Y.K.’s absence in excess of six months did not disrupt her “continuous residence” in the United States. Upon review of the filing, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) agreed with the arguments advanced and found that Y.K.’s trip of over seven months did not disrupt her “continuous residence.” It further found that Y.K had otherwise established her eligibility for naturalization and subsequently approved her for naturalization. Y.K. has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

Removal Proceedings cancelled and Permanent Residence conferred

Matter of N.G.F. (2019)

N.G.F. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had entered the United States more than a decade ago without being inspected and admitted. He was arrested by the Department of Homeland Security as a result of active enforcement efforts in the region where he lived. On his behalf, our immigration attorney prepared, filed, and litigated to completion an Application for Cancellation of Removal and Adjustment of Status for Certain Nonpermanent Residents (“Form EOIR-42B”), arguing that N.G.F. (1) had the requisite 10 years of continuous physical presence, (2) that he had been a person of good moral character during this timeframe, and (3) that his removal from the United States would result in exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to his United States citizen daughter. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge found that N.G.F. had satisfied all the statutory requirements, and he further concluded that N.G.F. merited relief in the exercise of discretion. N.G.F’s removal proceedings were cancelled, and he was granted lawful permanent residence.

Adjustment Application granted and Permanent Residence conferred

Matter of E.K. (2019)

E.K. is a native and citizen of Rwanda who had entered the United States on a B1 visa. He had timely applied for asylum, but his case had been referred by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) to the Immigration Court for further proceedings. While these removal proceedings were ongoing, E.K. married a lawful permanent resident of the United States who had an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”) pending with USCIS. When E.K. met with our immigration attorney, he explained that his marriage to a lawful permanent resident, who was soon to become a United States citizen, provided him another possible form of relief from removal. Upon becoming counsel of record in the case, our immigration attorney immediately filed a Petition for Alien Relative (“Form I-130”) with USCIS on E.K.’s behalf (on the basis of E.K’s marriage to a lawful permanent resident). Our immigration attorney then presented proof of the filing as well as proof of the interview that had been scheduled for the Form N-400 filed by E.K’s spouse. The presiding immigration judge agreed to continue the matter until a final decision was made by USCIS on the Form I-130. After the Form I-130 was approved, our immigration attorney filed an Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (“Form I-485”) with the Immigration Court. Satisfied with the evidence presented in support of the Form I-485, the presiding immigration judge found that E.K. had established statutory eligibility for adjustment of status, and he further concluded that E.K. merited relief in the exercise of discretion. Finally, after 6 years of being in removal proceedings, E.K. was granted lawful permanent residence.

Lawful Permanent Residence granted

Matter of M.M.R. (2019)

M.M.R. is a native and citizen of Canada who sought to immigrate to the United States as the spouse of a U.S. citizen. Having both lived in Canada for decades, M.M.R. and her husband sought our immigration attorney’s help in the process to ensure no hiccups. From the filing of the initial family petition and all the way through consular processing, our immigration attorney helped make the process as smooth as possible for M.M.R. and her husband. After her interview at the consulate, M.M.R. was issued an immigrant visa and has recently immigrated to the United States.

Lawful Permanent Residence granted

Matter of J.A. (2019)

J.A. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had initially entered the United States decades ago without being inspected and admitted. Her son, who was born in the United States, serves in the United States armed forces. With the help of our immigration attorney, she first applied for parole-in-place with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) Las Vegas Application Support Center. After she was granted parole, our immigration attorney helped her apply for adjustment of status. Less than five months after filing her adjustment application, J.A. was approved for permanent residence.

Citizenship granted

Matter of N.S. (2019)

N.S., a native and citizen of Turkey who had been admitted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States a few years back, sought the aid of our immigration attorney to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”). Our immigration attorney prepared the Form N-400 filing, prepared N.S. for her interview, and attended the interview with N.S. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) approved her for naturalization, and she has been sworn in as a United States citizen.

DUI reduced to Reckless Driving

Matter of C.L. (2019)

C.L. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had arrested for driving under the influence. Our immigration attorney was able to negotiate a deal with the Clark County District Attorney’s Office whereby the DUI charge would be reduced to Reckless Driving if C.L. paid a fine, completed the Victim Impact Panel, DUI School, and the Coroner’s Program. C.L. successfully completed all court-imposed requirements and so was only found guilty of the reduced charge of Reckless Driving.

Citizenship granted

Matter of C.R. (2019)

C.R. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been admitted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States several decades ago. He had been reluctant to file an Application for Naturalization (“Form N-400”) because of certain criminal convictions that he had in the past. With the guidance of our immigration attorney, he ultimately decided to apply. Accepting that he was, in fact, a person of good moral character (and not judging him by mistakes made long ago), USCIS approved him for naturalization, and C.R. sworn in as a United States citizen.

Certificate of Citizenship conferred

Matter of J.C. (2019)

J.C. is a native and citizen of Germany who had been admitted to the United States as a lawful permanent resident of the United States back in 1985. More than 30 years later, she sought the advice of our immigration attorney regarding the steps that needed to be taken to acquire naturalization. After discussing all relevant facts surrounding J.C.’s situation, our immigration attorney and J.C. agreed to pursue an Application for Certificate of Citizenship (“Form N-600”). Our immigration attorney prepared a detailed memorandum of law in which he presented to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services all of the relevant facts and why J.C., under the law as it existed prior to the Child Citizenship Act of 2000, would have automatically derived United States citizenship. The agency agreed and, after her oath ceremony, J.C. was given her Certificate of Citizenship.

Bond granted

Matter of M.R. (2019)

M.R. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been arrested for assault with a deadly weapon in violation of Nevada law and subsequently convicted of battery constituting domestic violence. After being released from criminal custody, she was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security refused to release M.R. on a bond. Our immigration attorney filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on her behalf, arguing that M.R. did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge set a bond. M.R. was released from immigration custody after posting this bond.

Bond granted

Matter of F.J.M. (2019)

F.J.M. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been arrested for battery constituting domestic violence in violation of Nevada law. After bail was posted in the pending criminal case, he was transferred to immigration custody where the Department of Homeland Security refused to release F.J.M. on a bond. Our immigration attorney filed a motion seeking a custody redetermination hearing with the Las Vegas Immigration Court on his behalf, arguing that F.J.M did not pose a danger to the community or a risk of flight. Satisfied with the evidence presented, the presiding immigration judge set a bond. F.J.M was released from immigration custody after posting this bond.

Permanent Residence granted

Matter of M.D.G. (2019)

M.D.G., a native and citizen of the Philippines, was engaged to a United States citizen and sought to immigrate to the United States. She entered the United States on a K-1 visa and adjusted her status to that of a lawful permanent resident with the help of our immigration attorney.

Bond granted

Matter of N.E.G. (2019)

N.E.G. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been previously convicted of burglary and possession of a drug not to be introduced in interstate commerce in violation of Nevada law. He had most recently been arrested for conspiracy to commit battery and felony child abuse in violation of Nevada law. After posting bond and being released from criminal custody, he was taken into immigration custody. Our immigration attorney prepared a motion, seeking a custody redetermination hearing on his behalf. The immigration judge, satisfied with evidence presented in support of the motion, found that N.E.G. did not pose a danger to the community and set a bond. N.E.G. was released from immigration custody.

Bond granted

Matter of E.A. (2019)

E.A. is a native and citizen of Israel who had been taken into criminal custody for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest in violation of Nevada law. After being released on his own recognizance from criminal custody, he was taken into immigration custody. Our immigration attorney prepared a motion, seeking a custody redetermination hearing on his behalf. The immigration judge, satisfied with evidence presented in support of the motion, found that E.A. did not pose a danger to the community and set a bond. E.A. was released from immigration custody.

Bond granted

Matter of N.V. (Las Vegas Immigration Court, 2019)

N.V. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been wrongly arrested for battery domestic violence and felony child abuse in violation of Nevada law. After posting bail and being released from criminal custody, he was taken into immigration custody. The attorney prepared a motion, seeking a custody redetermination hearing on his behalf. The immigration judge, satisfied with evidence presented in support of the motion, found that N.V. did not pose a danger to the community and set a bond. N.V. was released from immigration custody.

Bond granted

Matter of R.A.M. (Las Vegas Immigration Court, 2019)

R.A.M. is a native and citizen of Mexico who had been convicted of driving under the influence in violation of California law and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in violation of Nevada law. He was picked up by local law enforcement on an outstanding bench warrant. After serving a two-month term of imprisonment, he was transferred into immigration custody. The attorney prepared a motion, seeking a custody redetermination hearing on his behalf. The immigration judge, satisfied with evidence presented in support of the motion, found that R.A.M. did not pose a danger to the community and set a bond. R.A.M. was released from immigration custody.

DUI reduced to reckless driving

City v. M.G. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2019)

Client was charged with a DUI. If he were convicted, he would have lost his commercial driver’s license and therefore his job. Las Vegas Defense Group negotiated a deal where the DUI was reduced to reckless driving, and he was able to keep his CDL.

Battery domestic violence charge dismissed

City v. K.D. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2018)

K.D. was charged with battery domestic violence. The prosecutor refused to negotiate down the charge, so we scheduled a trial. When the alleged victim failed to show up, the prosecutor dismissed the charge completely. Now K.D. is free to pursue a record seal and may keep possession of his guns.

Denial of “motion to suppress” reversed, felony drug possession with a firearm conviction tossed on appeal

People v. C.G. (California Court of Appeal, 2nd Dist., 2018)

Las Vegas Defense Group attorney Michael Becker traveled to Los Angeles to represent a fellow lawyer who had entered a no contest plea to drug possession with a firearm. On appeal, Michael Becker argued that the police search that found evidence of the firearm and drugs was unconstitutional. The appellate court agreed and remanded the case back to the trial level so our client can withdraw the no contest plea. It is extremely rare for defendants to be allowed to withdraw their no contest pleas. Now, the trial court will be left with insufficient evidence to convict our client of drug possession with a firearm.

First-degree Murder charge dismissed

State v. J.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2018)

Our client was extradited to Nevada from Washington following a grand jury indictment of first-degree murder. Las Vegas Defense Group explained to the prosecutor that our client acted in lawful self-defense. The prosecutor relented and dismissed the entire case against our client.

Sexual Assault and Kidnapping charges dismissed

State v. S.B. (Lake Township Justice Court in Lovelock, 2018)

Our client was facing one kidnapping and two rape charges out of Pershing County, Nevada. After a month and a half of negotiations, the prosecutor decided to dismiss all charges. Our client has no convictions and can pursue a record seal immediately.

Embezzlement Trial: Bench Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. C.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2018)

Our client faced embezzlement charges for allegedly renting a car and driving off with it. At trial, Las Vegas Defense Group showed the following:

• The rental tech was not certain that our client was the person who took the car;
• The detective did not testify about the surveillance video since it was not preserved, and he had no personal knowledge of our client;
• The signatures and addresses on the client’s driver’s license and the rental contract were completely different; and
• The police officer barely conducted an investigation and had mistakes in his police report.

The judge in the bench trial found our client not guilty.

Attempt Murder Trial: Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

People v. J.O.. (Los Angeles Superior Court, 2018)

Las Vegas Defense Group attorney Michael Becker traveled to Los Angeles to defend a California client accused of willful, deliberate, and premeditated attempted murder. After the preliminary hearing, the judge gratuitously found that defendant “was guilty beyond a reasonable doubt”. The case was sent for trial to the same judge but was removed to a different courtroom after the defense filed an affidavit of prejudice against the judge. The jury acquitted the client of willful, deliberate, and premeditated attempted murder.

Battery domestic violence Trial: Bench Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. J.S. (2018)

A Las Vegas Defense Group attorney defended our client against a battery domestic violence complaint from a Metro officer. Our client’s Air Force career was at risk if he were to be convicted of the charge. Michael took the matter all the way to a bench trial where he successfully achieved a not guilty verdict, thereby clearing our client of all charges.

Battery domestic violence charge dismissed

In re. I.R. (2018)

Our client, a native and citizen of Mexico, was charged with battery domestic violence in violation of section 200.485.1 of the Nevada Revised Statutes. He maintained his innocence, we entered a not guilty plea, and set the case for trial. On the date of the trial, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office moved to dismiss the case.

DUI reduced to reckless driving

In re. R.S. (2018)

Our client, a native and citizen of Germany, was charged with (1) driving under the influence in violation of section 484C.110 of the Nevada Revised Statutes and (2) failure to yield the right-of-way in violation of section 484B.260 of the Nevada Revised Statutes. We were able to secure the following negotiation, which the Justice of the Peace presiding over the case followed: a no-contest plea to the charge of driving under the influence under a stay of adjudication; upon payment of (1) a fine of $685, (2) completion of DUI school, and (3) completion of the Victim Impact Panel, the case would be amended the reckless driving. Our client completed all requirements and the DUI charge was amended to reckless driving. The failure to yield right of way charge was dropped altogether.

Policy denying non-citizens right to post bail rescinded

Palafox-Lugo v. Eighth Judicial District Court, et. al., No. 2:18-cv-01796-APG-GWF (U.S. District Court for District of Nevada, 2018)

Las Vegas Defense Group filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada against both the Eighth Judicial District Court and the Las Vegas Justice Court, alleging violations of 42 U.S.C. § 1983 seeking declaratory and injunctive relief. The issue was each court’s policy of denying bail to noncitizen detainees with detainers placed on them by the Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement (colloquially known as “ICE holds”). This policy stemmed from “standing” administrative orders issued by each state court—specifically, by the Eighth Judicial District Court in September of 2001 and by the Las Vegas Justice Court in February of 2002.

Shortly after suit was filed, counsel for both the Eighth Judicial District Court and the Las Vegas Justice Court conferred with Las Vegas Defense Group and agreed to settle the matter by having the court rescind these standing orders initially issued by the state courts that limited a noncitizen’s ability to post bail.

On October 8, 2018, the Eighth Judicial District Court issued its order, rescinding the 2001 order and directing the clerk to accept bail bonds or cash bail without regard to an individual’s immigration status. A little more than one week later, the Las Vegas Justice Court followed suit.

Citizenship granted

Matter of P.L. (2018)

P.L. is a native and citizen of Vietnam who sought naturalization. He had previously applied on his own and was denied. With the help of Las Vegas Defense Group, he again applied and was approved.

Citizenship granted

Matter of A.G. (2018)

A.G. is a native and citizen of Mexico who applied for naturalization. Las Vegas Defense Group guided her through the process, and her application for naturalization was approved.

OR release granted in drug case carrying possible life sentence

U.S. v. O.S. (2018)

Our client is facing charges for trafficking more than 17 lbs. of meth, which carries a minimum of 10 years to life in prison under federal law. Judges usually order that these kinds of defendants remain in custody pending the case’s outcome. But following contentious oral arguments, the judge agreed to grant our client personal recognizance bond with conditions.

Green card granted

In re. Y.C. (2018)

We helped our client — a Chinese citizen in the U.S. on a B1/B2 visitor visa — through the process to become a legal permanent resident.

Green card granted

In re. E.N. (2018)

We helped our client — a Nigerian citizen in the U.S. on an F1 student visa — through the process to become a legal permanent resident.

Parole-in-place granted

In re. J.A. (2018)

Our client is a native and citizen of Mexico who entered the United States years ago without being inspected and admitted. We applied for parole-in-place with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service Application Support Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. After considering the equities in her case, USCIS granted her application for parole-in-place, effectively making her eligible for adjustment of status to become a legal permanent resident.

Removal proceedings stopped

In re. R.P. (2018)

Our client was facing deportation for convictions of Attempt to Commit Possession of Credit or Debit Card without Cardholder’s Consent in violation of Nev. Rev. Stat. §§ 193.330, 205.690 as well as Attempt Forgery in violation of Nev. Rev. Stat. §§ 193.330, 205.090, 205.110. The attorney argued that the DHS was unable to prove by clear and convincing evidence that our client is deportable under either section 237(a)(2)(A)(iii) or section 237(a)(2)(A)(ii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Specifically, he argued that the attempt credit card charge was not an aggravated felony, and that the attempt forgery charge was not a crime of moral turpitude, and that the law is unconstitutionally vague. The judge granted the motion, and the client will not face deportation.

Citizenship granted

In re. M.P. (2018)

Las Vegas Defense Group walked our client through the naturalization process. The USCIS recommended her for citizenship, and she was sworn in on June 8, 2018. She is now a full-fledged U.S. citizen.

Citizenship granted

In re. F.A. (2018)

Las Vegas Defense Group walked our client through the naturalization process, USCIS recommended her for citizenship, and she was sworn in and is now a full-fledged U.S. citizen.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. R.P. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2018)

Our client is a Henderson police officer facing a battery domestic violence charge. Prior to the scheduled trial, the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the entire case. Now our client can get his record sealed right away.

Deportable drug felony charge dismissed

In re. A.A. (2018)

Our client faced charged as an alien deportable for being convicted of an aggravated felony drug offense. Our firm argued that the Department of Homeland Security failed to meet its burden of proving that our client is deportable under section 237(a)(2)(A)(iii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The immigration judge agreed and dismissed the aggravated felony drug charge, terminating proceedings. Our client no longer faces deportation.

Conditions on residence removed

In re. C. (2018)

Our client had his individual hearing postponed to 2019 because the judge had a scheduling conflict. Our firm filed a motion to terminate along with a pre-hearing brief in Support of Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, where we argued this case did not need an individual hearing. The judge agreed.

DUI charge reduced to reckless driving

City v. J.K. (North Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2018)

Our attorneys persuaded the prosecutor to reduce the DUI charge to reckless driving. Now our client can pursue a record seal after only one year instead of after seven. And if our client gets arrested for DUI in the future, it will be treated as a DUI first instead of a DUI second, which carries harsher penalties.

Green Card granted

In re. R.G. (2018)

Our firm helped our client adjust status from visa-holder to legal permanent resident in only two and a half months.

Citizenship granted

In re. J.Z. (2018)

Our firm walked our client through the entire naturalization process, including attending his naturalization interview with him. He was recommended for citizenship by the end of the interview and recently took his oath of citizenship.

Solicitation charge dismissed

State v. J.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2018)

Our immigrant client was charged with solicitation of prostitution. Our firm persuaded the D.A. to completely dismiss the case once our client paid a small fine and completed an AIDS Awareness class. She may pursue a record seal right away and will not face deportation.

Battery charge dismissed

State v. M.J. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2018)

Our client is an immigrant and was facing a battery charge. Our firm negotiated a full dismissal once our client completed an impulse control class and paid a small fine. Our client will not face deportation and can immediately pursue a record seal. 

Animal at large charge dismissed

City v. A.K. (North Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2018)

Our client had a bench warrant for an outstanding citation for having an animal at large. Our firm quashed the warrant and persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss the case in exchange for our client paying a $245 fine. He has no conviction and can pursue a record seal immediately.

ELEVEN felony charges and THREE gross misdemeanors dismissed

State v. A.P. (Clark County District Court, 2017)

This is a high-profile case because the defendant, our client, is a brilliant and dedicated local attorney. She was wrongfully accused of conspiring to furnish her incarcerated client with a cell phone. A grand jury handed down a fourteen-charge indictment, carrying decades in prison. Las Vegas Defense Group filed a motion to dismiss the charges, which explained how the case against our client was unconstitutional, and that the statutory text plainly exonerates our client from any liability or wrongdoing. The District Court judge agreed with our arguments and dismissed all charges. Read the Las Vegas Review-Journal article.

Appeal for Attempted Murder: Convictions reversed & remanded

State v. L.C. (Nevada Supreme Court, 2017)

Our client was originally convicted in Clark County District Court on four charges including attempted murder with a deadly weapon. Our attorneys argued on appeal that the trial court judge abused her discretion in allowing the jury to hear irrelevant and prejudicial evidence. The Nevada Supreme Court agreed with us and reversed all four convictions and remanded the matter for a fair trial. Listen to Las Vegas Defense Group attorney Michael Becker deliver the winning oral argument at the Nevada Supreme Court:

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. A.B. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our non-citizen client was charged with battery domestic violence after a quarrel with his wife. Our firm persuaded the judge to completely dismiss the case once our client completed 48 hours of community service, attended counseling, paid a fine, and avoided further arrest while the case was open. Because the charge was dismissed and he has no conviction, the matter will not affect his immigration status.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon charge dismissed

State v. F.Z. (Henderson Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was charged with assault with a deadly weapon, a category B felony carrying possibly decades in prison. We negotiated a full dismissal of the charges (meaning the client was not convicted of anything) once our client completed 80 hours of community service and completed a parenting class.

Felony Drug Possession charge dismissed

State v. E.S. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client, who had an outstanding warrant, was charged with felony drug possession of methamphetamine. The judge dismissed the whole charge after our client paid $500 and completed a drug evaluation. There is no drug conviction on her record, and she can pursue a record seal immediately.

Felony Drug Possession charge dismissed

State v. J.B. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was charged with felony drug possession. The entire case was dismissed after our client successfully completed drug counseling and community service.

Embezzlement charge dismissed

State v. K.Y. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client faced a misdemeanor embezzlement charge for allegedly voiding transactions at her place of work and converting them into tips. The judge completely dismissed the charge with no conviction once our client paid a small fine and restitution as well as avoided further arrest while the case was open.

Battery charge dismissed

State v. M.P. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client’s misdemeanor battery charge was completely dismissed once he paid a small fine, completed an impulse control class and avoided further arrests. There is no conviction on his record, and he can pursue a record seal immediately.

Felony Drug Possession charge dismissed

State v. A.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our young client was charged with felony drug possession. Our firm negotiated a full dismissal (so there is no conviction) in exchange for our client completing 50 hours of community service, attending four months of Narcotics Anonymous once a week, and enrolling in college.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. J.E. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client’s spouse accused him of hitting her following an argument. After the accuser failed to show up at trial, the state agreed to dismiss the case once our client completed 48 hours of community service and 13 impulse control classes.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. S.P. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client and his girlfriend had an argument. The state considered filing felony charges due to the girlfriend’s injury, but in the end our firm persuaded the state to dismiss the case if our client agreed to pay $345 fine, perform 48 hours of community service, and attend 26 weeks of counseling.

Trespass charge dismissed

State v. J.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was crashing at a friend’s hotel room for the night. Security got on his case for not having a room key, and he was taken into custody for trespass. The state agreed to drop the charges once our client paid $250.

Violation of Protection Order Trial: Bench Verdict of Not Guilty

City v. N.S. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of violating a temporary protection order (TPO). At trial, the prosecutor opted not to subpoena the cop who served the TPO. Las Vegas Defense Group argued that our client had the right to confront his accuser. The judge agreed and acquitted our client.

Exploitation of an Older/vulnerable Person charge dismissed

State v. M.L. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

The state made a major mistake in the original complaint against our client by giving the wrong time period during which the alleged crime occurred. The statute of limitations had already run when the state tried to amend the complaint. Las Vegas Defense Group opposed the complaint with a very creative motion, citing to not only case law but also the rules of the boardgame Clue, and won. The state was force to dismiss the entire case.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. A.P. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of battery domestic violence for allegedly hitting her dad. The state made a plea bargain offer, but our client decided to go to trial. On the date of the trial, no state witnesses showed up. The state agreed to dismiss the entire case for lack of proof.

DUI charge dismissed

City v. R.M. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of driving under the influence. Our attorneys produced medical records which showed our client was suffering from a medical episode during the incident. The city attorney agreed to drop the case.

Felony Vehicle Tampering case dismissed

State v. J.N. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of felony vehicle tampering following an accident. Our attorneys negotiated a plea where the entire case was dismissed after our client performed community service and paid restitution.

Battery case dismissed

State v. K.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of misdemeanor battery. Our attorneys negotiated a plea where the entire case was dismissed once our client paid a fine and completed community service.

Battery case dismissed

State v. T.W. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of misdemeanor battery. Our attorneys negotiated a plea where the entire case was dismissed once our client performed community service and took an impulse control class.

Battery Domestic Violence case dismissed

State v. C.R. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of battery domestic violence. The state made an offer with no jail time, but our client refused to plead guilty. We showed up for trial, but the state’s witnesses did not appear. The trial was reset, and the witnesses did not appear again. The judge dismissed the case.

Citizenship granted

In re. Matter of A.J. (2017)

Our client had been arrested for battery domestic violence back in 2010, which possible barred her from getting citizenship. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys responded to the government’s request for evidence, and our client just got word that she is clear to naturalize.

Child abuse dismissal sealed

State v. T.G. (2017)

Our client’s charge of child abuse and neglect was dismissed (no conviction), but the arrest still showed up on her background checks. Las Vegas Defense Group was able to get the matter sealed within four months.

Probation reinstated

In re. Matter of N.D. (2017)

Our client was jailed for allegedly violating the terms of his probation. A Las Vegas Defense Group attorney appeared at his probation violation hearing. He persuaded the court to reinstate our client’s probation and release him from custody. Otherwise, our client would have faced another year behind bars.

Citizenship granted

In re. Matter of I.S. (2017)

Our client had a criminal history within the statutory period of time, so the USCIS could have denied him citizenship on that basis alone and could have made him wait another year to reapply for naturalization. Our client had also been charged with possession of cocaine with intent to sell, which our Las Vegas immigration attorneys negotiated down to possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana. We were able to show the USCIS that the conviction was pleaded in a manner that does not make it deportable offense. Our client just received his Oath Ceremony letter and may naturalize immediately.

Battery Domestic Violence charge to be dismissed

City v. A.H. (Henderson Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of battery domestic violence following an argument with a family member. After extensive negotiations and trial was set, Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the city to dismiss the charge once our client completes 24 hours of community service, impulse control counseling, and avoids arrest for another year.

DUI 1st reduced to Reckless Driving

State v. I.F. (Las Vegas Justice Court 2017)

Client was charged with a misdemeanor DUI. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a reckless driving in exchange for our client completing a coroner’s DUI class.

Trespass charge dismissed

State v. A.L. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was cited for trespass in the Excalibur. Las Vegas Defense Group got the charge dismissed in exchange for our client paying a small fine.

Five traffic matters reduced to one charge and one illegal parking

City v. S.C. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was cited for failure to pay full attention, failure to give information to the officer, failure to stop at accident, failure to change the address on registration within 30 days, and failure to have proof of insurance. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys negotiated the following plea deal: The failure to pay full attention was reduced to a one-point speeding violation. The Failure to give information to the officer was reduced to an illegal parking. The remaining three counts were dismissed, and the client had to pay $235 in fines and attend level 1 traffic school (an online class).

Intoxication at Airport, Violation of Airport Rules, and Drug Paraphernalia Possession charges dismissed

State v. S.T. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was accused of violating airport rules, being drunk at the airport, and having drug paraphernalia. Just before trial, Las Vegas Defense Group attorney convinced the prosecutor to drop all charges once our client finishes 25 hours of community service, goes through a Lower Level Drug Class, and avoids further arrest while the case is open. As long as our client completes these requirements, he will get no conviction.

Petty Larceny charge dismissed

City v. E.T. (Henderson Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was cited for petty larceny. Las Vegas Defense Group attorney negotiated a full case dismissal once our client completes 30 hours of community service and avoids further brushes with the law for six months. There will be no conviction, and our client can get her record sealed immediately once the case is dismissed.

DMV case dismissed

In the Matter of the Driving Privilege of M.M. (Nevada DMV, 2017)

Our client was stopped on suspicion of DUI and refused to take a breath and blood test, which carries a one-year driver’s license suspension. Our attorneys scheduled a DMV hearing to contest the suspension. Two officers showed up to the hearing. During cross-examination, our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys got the officers to admit that they did not know whether our client was properly advised about the consequences for not submitting to a breath or blood test. The administrative judge dismissed the case, and the DMV did not order a license suspension.

Open or Gross Lewdness charge dismissed

State v. J.C. (Laughlin Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was charged with open or gross lewdness as a gross misdemeanor, which carried up to a year in jail. Las Vegas Defense Group attorney crafted a negotiation with the prosecutor that resulted in the entire case being dismissed once our client took impulse control counseling, paid a fine, and avoided arrest for a specified period.

Trespass charge dismissed

State v. A.T. (Laughlin Justice Court, 2017)

Our client got a full case dismissal in exchange for a small fine. Since there was no conviction, she is now free to get her record sealed right away.

Citizenship granted

In re. Matter of S.T. (2017)

Our Indonesian client was a legal permanent resident and came to Las Vegas Defense Group seeking naturalization. Our immigration attorneys walked her through the application and interview process, and in only a few months our client was granted U.S. citizenship.

Green Cards obtained

In re. Matter of L.O and N.T. (2017)

A mother and daughter looked to our Las Vegas Defense Group immigration attorneys to help them get green cards. They are from Columbia, and the mother had married a U.S. citizen. The husband petitioned for the mother as a spouse and for the daughter as a step-father. The petition was granted, and now our mother and daughter clients have green cards and are legal permanent residents of the United States.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. J.V. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client was charged with battery domestic violence in Nevada, which prosecutors are statutorily prohibited from reducing or dismissing unless they can show the judge that insufficient evidence exists to achieve a conviction at trial. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys demonstrated how the prosecutors’ evidence was faulty, and our client’s domestic violence charge was dismissed after our client paid a small fine and attended some anger management and domestic violence counseling.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

City v. K.S. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client was charged with battery domestic violence in Nevada, and battery domestic violence convictions mandate a seven-year waiting period before the record could ever be sealed. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys persuaded the court to dismiss the entire charge, and our client was able to pursue a record seal right away with no waiting period.

Firearms returned

City v. W.W. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2017)

Our client had three of his guns seized by police as part of unlawful discharge of a firearm case. Our attorneys persuaded the judge to order the city to return all three of them to our client.

Bench Warrant quashed

State v. J.C. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Our client had an outstanding bench warrant on a solicitation case dating back to 2005. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys persuaded the judge to quash the warrant without imposing any jail time

Lewdness with a Minor charge and other Category A felonies reduced to Non-sexually-motivated Coercion with no jail

State v. A.G. (Clark County District Court, 2017)

Our client was charged with several category A felonies, including lewdness with a minor. If convicted, our client would have faced life in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. Las Vegas Defense Group attorney negotiated a deal with the prosecution where the state would agree to drop everything, and instead, our client would initially plead to attempted lewdness, which would then be reduced to non-sexually-motivated coercion upon successful completion of probation. At first the judge was hesitant to sign off on such a beneficial plea deal for our client, but then Adam composed a persuasive sentencing memorandum explaining why our client deserved leniency. Upon reading Adam’s memorandum, the judge immediately agreed. Now our client should do no jail at all nor be a lifelong sexual offender registrant.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. J.R. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Prosecutor tried to convince our client to take a deal where he would plea to battery domestic violence with minimum penalties, but our client refused. When the “victim” did not show up to the trial, the entire case was dismissed. The client has no conviction and is eligible for a record seal right away.

Drug Possession and Transportation felonies reduced to one misdemeanor

State v. A.H. (Ely Justice Court, 2017)

Client faced two drug felonies: Possession of a controlled substance and transport of a controlled substance. Las Vegas Defense Group negotiated a deal where the prosecutor would reduce the two felonies to one drug-related misdemeanor, carrying a $750 fine.

Sale of Tobacco to Minor charge dismissed

State v. J.G. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Client faced a charge of sale of tobacco to a minor. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss the case for a $250 fine and Attorney General fees.

Petit Larceny charge dismissed

State v. K.K. (Henderson Justice Court, 2017)

Client faced a charge of petit larceny. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss the case once our client takes an online petit larceny class and avoids arrest for six months.

Solicitation charge dismissed

State v. K.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2017)

Client faced a charge of solicitation. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss the case once our client paid a $250 fine.

Jaywalking charge dismissed

State v. S.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

The court agreed to dismiss our client’s jaywalking charge with no fines or other penalties.

Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed

State v. H.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Prosecutor offered our client minimum penalties in exchange for our client accepting a conviction for battery domestic violence. Our client rejected this deal. At trial, the alleged victim never showed up, and the prosecutor dropped the case for lack of evidence. Since our client has no conviction, our client can get a record seal right away.

Motion to Terminate Removal Granted; Green Card Retained

November 2016

Our client is a lawful permanent resident that was placed in removal proceedings in Hawaii. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys drafted a motion to terminate removal on the basis that our client was erroneously placed in removal proceedings. The judge granted the motion, and our client can keep his green card and will not face deportation.

First Approval Notice for a Fiancée Petition; No Interview Required

October 2016

Under attorney supervision, Las Vegas Defense Group paralegal Karina Barrett got the first approval notice for a Fiancée Petition for a client who is trying to immigrate his wife to the U.S. from the Philippines. Karina worked really hard with the clients to gather the appropriate evidence, and remarkably she got the petition approved without an interview.

Removal Proceeding Stopped; Client Maintains Lawful Resident Status

In the Matter of J.R. (April 2016)

Our client is a lawful permanent resident. He was serving a three-year term of probation in Nevada for pleading to “statutory sexual seduction” with the possibility of the charge getting reduced to “conspiracy to commit a crime” following probation. While he was on probation, ICE arrested him for having pleaded to “statutory sexual seduction,” which is a deportable offense in Nevada. Our Las Vegas Defense Group immigration attorneys filed a motion asking that our client be released from probation early. Over State objection, the court granted our client early termination of probation and allowed him to change his “statutory sexual seduction” plea to the lesser offense of “conspiracy to commit a crime.”

Afterward, we appeared with our client in Immigration Court and argued that he was no longer deportable because he was never convicted of “statutory sexual seduction” but rather “conspiracy to commit a crime.” The judge agreed, terminated removal, and the client was released from custody the same day. Had we waited to ask for an early termination of probation, it is likely our client would have been deported. He is still a Lawful Permanent Resident and will be eligible for citizenship in just over 2 years.

Removal Proceeding: Voluntary Departure Granted instead

In the Matter of A.L. (February 2016)

Our Canadian client was charged with some crimes while visiting the U.S., and the client allegedly overstayed the visa as well. The DHS (Department of Homeland Security) began removal proceedings to have the client deported. (Deportations carry a 10-year bar from returning to the U.S.) At a hearing in immigration court, our Las Vegas Defense Group immigration attorneys asked the judge to grant our client a “voluntary departure” instead deportation. (People who leave the U.S. via a “voluntary departure” do not have to wait to return to the U.S. for a visit, to apply for a Visa, or to begin immigration proceedings.) The government objected to our request, but the judge sided with our client and granted our client a voluntary departure in lieu of deportation. Our client was very pleased since this allowed the client to be released from custody and to go home to Canada right away.

Appeal for Sexual Assault with a Child under 14 and Sexual Coercion: Convictions reversed & remanded

State v. J.R. (Nevada Supreme Court, 2016)

Our client had been convicted at trial of two counts of sexual assault with a child under 14 as well as sexually motivated coercion. This verdict carried a life sentence. Las Vegas Defense Group appealed, arguing that the district court judge abused its discretion by failing to sever the trial; the charges stemmed from two separate alleged incidents that allegedly happened six years apart and had practically no evidence in common. The Nevada Supreme Court agreed and reversed and remanded our client’s convictions.

Battery Domestic Violence Trial: Bench Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. D.B. (Pahrump Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with misdemeanor battery domestic violence against an ex-girlfriend. At trial, our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys pointed to the evidence to argue that the ex-girlfriend was in fact the initial aggressor. The judge agreed there was insufficient evidence to prove that our client was guilty and acquitted our client.

Bad Check charge dismissed

State v. E.L. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

An arrest warrant was issued for our client after he mistakenly cashed the same check twice (once at a casino). Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the judge to grant him an “OR walk-through,” which allowed our client to get fingerprinted and photographed without having to be jailed like during a typical arrest. Then Adam negotiated a deal where the entire case was dismissed upon our client paying restitution to the casino.

Murder Trial: Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

People v. H.S. (Los Angeles Superior Court, 2016)

Las Vegas Defense Group attorney Michael Becker traveled to Los Angeles to defend a California client accused of murder. Michael Becker argued to the jury that our client’s accomplice…who had been granted immunity…was not credible and that he likely committed the homicide. The jury came back in only 37 minutes to find our client “not guilty” of murder.

Multiple Animal Cruelty charges dismissed

State v. R.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was facing a dozen animal cruelty-related charges. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys negotiated a deal where our client paid only $450 in exchange for all charges being dismissed without a conviction.

Drug Possession and Paraphernalia charges dismissed

State v. K.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was facing a misdemeanor drug possession charge and a misdemeanor paraphernalia possession charge. Las Vegas Defense Group attorney Daniel Page negotiated a deal where both charges were dismissed with no conviction after our client completed short-term “Lower Level Drug Counseling.”

Battery Domestic Violence charge to be dismissed

State v. P.D. (Reno Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with battery domestic violence against his wife. Las Vegas Defense Group negotiated a deal where the entire charge will be dismissed with no conviction as long as our client completes “Veteran’s Court,” a one-year rehabilitation program.

DUI charge dismissed

State v. I.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with driving under the influence. Upon review of the file, our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys found that the warrant was not valid: The officers had obtained a warrant for our client’s brother, not our client, but then drew our client’s blood. We filed a motion to suppress the blood evidence, which the court granted. The D.A. then dismissed the DUI charges completely with no conviction and no penalties.

Early Termination of Probation granted on Statutory Rape charge

State v. J.R. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client, who is a lawful permanent resident, had been serving probation for a past criminal case. Suddenly ICE arrested him and attempted to deport him because his case involved allegations of statutory rape, which is a deportable offense. We asked the criminal court judge to end his probation right away (a year-and-a-half early), which the judge agreed to over State’s objection. This early termination of probation allowed our client to have his plea reduced to the non-deportable offense of “conspiracy to commit a crime” (in accordance with the terms of his earlier plea deal). Therefore, our client was able to avoid removal altogether, stay out of custody, remain a lawful U.S. resident, and maintain eligibility to become a U.S. citizen in only two years.

Shoplifting charge dismissed

State v. N.A. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2016)

Our non-citizen client was accused of petty larceny, which threatened his resident status. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss the charge once our client paid a small fine, attended a class, and avoided further run-ins with the law for 6 months. Our client was able to remain in the U.S.

Obstruction and Disorderly Conduct charges dismissed

State v. M.Y. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2016)

Following an alleged argument with a cop on Fremont Street, our client was charged with misdemeanor obstruction and disorderly conduct. Both charges were completely dismissed after our client paid a small fine, took an impulse-control class, and avoided arrest for a year.

Assault charge dismissed

State v. J.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with assault after allegedly fighting with casino security. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys negotiated a full dismissal of the charge in exchange for our client paying a fine.

Obstruction and Disturbing the Peace charges dismissed

Las Vegas v. K.M. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with two misdemeanors–obstruction of a peace officer and disturbing the peace–after an altercation in Las Vegas. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys negotiated a deal where the court dismissed both charges after our client paid a small fine and avoided arrest for 6 months.

Cocaine possession charge dismissed

Nevada v. S.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with felony cocaine possession. Las Vegas criminal defense attorney Daniel Page worked out a deal where the case was dismissed with no conviction once our client paid a fine of $1,003.

Engaging in Business without a License charge dismissed

Nevada v. G.G. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2016)

Our client, a contractor, was charged with engaging in business without a license for allegedly not using union workers. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the D.A. to drop the charge in exchange for our client paying a small fine and abiding by a judicial order to avoid arrest for 6 months.

Breach of Peace charge dismissed

Las Vegas v. D.L. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2016)

Our client was roped into an altercation on Fremont Street and charged with breach of peace. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys negotiated a case dismissal in exchange for our client successfully avoiding another arrest and staying away from Fremont Street for one year.

Reckless Driving charge reduced

Nevada v. D.L. (Goodsprings Justice Court, 2016)

Our client was charged with reckless driving. Our Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys worked out a deal where the charge was reduced to a minor traffic ticket once our client paid $500 and completed traffic school.

Appeal for Sexual Assault with a Child under 14: Convictions reversed & New Trial ordered

State v. D.B (Nevada Supreme Court, 2015)

Our client was convicted in Clark County District Court of two counts of sexual assault with a child under 14. We appealed, arguing that the judge committed a “structural error” by failing to swear in the jury pool prior to jury selection. The Nevada Supreme Court agreed with us and reversed our client’s rape convictions.

Battery Domestic Violence Trial: Bench Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. R.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2015)

Our client was accused of battering his female roommate. Our firm used creative trial strategies (such as reserving his opening argument until mid-trial) to maximize the impact of his argument. And during cross-examination, we impeached the credibilities of both the “victim” and the police officer regarding missing evidence and inconsistencies between the alleged abuse and injuries. In the end, the judge returned an acquittal.

Solicitation of Prostitution charge dismissed

State v. S.N. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2015)

Two undercover agents approached Client in a casino and charged her with solicitation of prostitution. Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the D.A. to dismiss all charges in exchange for Client paying a small fine and taking an online AIDS awareness class.

Solicitation of Prostitution charge dismissed

State v. C.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2015)

Client was allegedly intoxicated in a casino when an woman approached him offering him a good time for a price. When Client allegedly headed to the ATM machine, he was handcuffed. Las Vegas Defense Group got the entire case dismissed in return for Client paying a small fine, completing a few hours of counseling, and taking an online AIDS awareness class.

Child Rape Trial: Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty” on all five counts

State v. J.A. (Fifth Judicial District Court, 2014)

Our client was charged in Pahrump, Nevada, with five counts of sexual assault by two separate minor accusers where our client faced 175 years to life in prison. During the trial, Las Vegas Defense Group attorneys Michael Becker and Daniel Page called into question the purported victims’ credibility by pointing out that they did not make their accusations until years after the alleged incident occurred. They also called our client’s wife to the stand to testify as to the goodness of his character. And they cross-examined a sheriff’s deputy, who conceded that one of the victims recanted her story. The jury did not deliberate long before returning an acquittal on all charges.

Temporary Protection Order Violation Hearing: Client found not in Violation

State v. A.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2014)

The alleged victim in this case accused our client of sexual assault and took out a temporary protection order (TPO) against him. Our firm undermined the victim’s credibility by pointing out that she did not report the alleged rape until several months after the alleged incident, that she met with our client several times in the interim, and that she never screamed or protested.

Temporary Protection Order Violation Hearing: Client found not in Violation

State v. R.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2014)

Our client was accused of violating a temporary protection order (TPO) that the alleged victims had against the activist group Anonymous. Our firm showed that there was no way to prove that the client was part of Anonymous.

Battery Trial: Charge dismissed

State v. R.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2014)

Our client was accused of beating up a masseuse in a hotel room. Our firm destroyed the masseuse’s credibility during cross-examination: He established that she lied about her finances and that she did not have a license to be a massage therapist. The judge dismissed the charges.

Felony Battery Domestic Violence charge dismissed after a preliminary hearing

State v. R.K. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2014)

The client was charged with two counts of felony battery domestic violence and one count of battery domestic violence with strangulation for allegedly having “rough sex” with the victim. At the preliminary hearing, Las Vegas Defense Group convinced the judge to drop one of the counts of felony battery domestic violence, greatly reducing his potential sentence.

Urinating in public charge dismissed

State v. J.G. and C.S. (Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2014)

Clients were cited after relieving themselves in a parking lot. Urinating in public carries up to 6 months in jail and/or up to $1,000, but Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the city attorney to dismiss the charges altogether once our clients paid a small fine. And because the charge was dismissed, they are eligible to seal their records right away.

Las Vegas Lewdness with a Child Trial:  Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. L.G. (Clark County District Court, 2013)

Our client was tried for the Nevada crime of sexual assault and the Nevada crime of lewdness with a minor under fourteen, which both carry life sentences. Our Las Vegas criminal defense lawyer Michael Becker convinced the jury that the police failed to conduct an adequate investigation such as doing DNA testing. Additionally, Michael Becker pointed out numerous inconsistencies in state witness testimony. The jury unanimously found our client “not guilty” on the lewdness count. As for the rape allegation, eleven of the twelve jurors found our client “not guilty,” so the judge declared a mistrial on the sexual assault count.

The D.A. planned to retry the rape charge. Instead of putting our client through another trial, our Las Vegas defense team argued that double jeopardy prohibited the D.A. from retrying the case. Las Vegas Defense Group, L.L.C.,  also cited the U.S. Supreme Court case Ashe v. Swenson to support our position that collateral estoppel prevented prosecutors from retrying the case. The Clark County District Court denied our motion, so our firm wrote and filed an appellate writ. Then in a published opinion, the Nevada Supreme Court remanded the matter back to the District Court. The District Court thereafter granted our motion, and the case was dismissed in full. Very few attorneys have successfully won dismissals under Ashe v. Swenson.

Las Vegas Sexual Assault Trial:  Hung Jury, followed by charge reduction

State v. A.N. (Clark County District Court, 2013)

Our client is Russian and was in Las Vegas for a convention. His female translator accused him of raping her in his hotel room, and there was physical evidence supporting her claims. He was charged with the Nevada crime of sexual assault and a variety of additional felony sex counts, and the D.A. offered a plea bargain which would have required several years in prison. At trial, our Las Vegas defense team argued that his accuser was looking to stay in the United States and alter her immigration status by obtaining a U visa as a victim of crime.  The Jury came back hung 11-1 in favor of not guilty, and Las Vegas Defense Group, L.L.C., ultimately resolved the case for credit time served on a minor gross misdemeanor. Instead of spending his life in prison in a country where he did not speak the language, our client got to go home to his family.

Las Vegas Sexual Assault Trial:  Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. A.H. (Clark County District Court, 2013)

Our client was accused of sexually assaulting a minor at a party.  Our Las Vegas defense team used evidence from Facebook postings to show that any sexual relations were consensual. The jury returned a not guilty verdict.

Felony Firearm Possession charge reduced to Misdemeanor Paraphernalia Possession

State v. S.C. and R.M. (Beatty Justice Court, 2013)

Clients were charged with a felony (prohibited person in possession of a firearm) as well as two misdemeanors (marijuana possession and paraphernalia possession). Las Vegas Defense Group persuaded the D.A. to drop the felony and marijuana charges. Clients just had to pay a small fine.

DUI 1st reduced to Reckless Driving

State v. M.J. (Las Vegas Justice Court 2013)

Client was charged with a first time DUI. Las Vegas Defense Group managed to delay the case until the prosecutor agreed to reduce the charge to a reckless driving. Unlike DUIs, reckless driving penalties do not increase with each successive conviction.

DUI 1st reduced to Reckless Driving

State v. A.O. (Las Vegas Justice Court 2013)

Client had a high blood alcohol content and was originally charged with first-time DUI. Las Vegas Defense Group successfully drew out the case and ultimately negotiated a charge reduction down to a reckless driving, which may be sealed from his record years quicker than a DUI.

Battery Domestic Violence trial: Case dismissed before trial

State v. S.H. (Sparks Municipal Court, 2013)

The client was charged with the Nevada crime of battery domestic violence for allegedly causing a firearm to be discharged during an argument with his wife. Las Vegas Defense Group convinced prosecutors that the victim’s statements were inconsistent. The court dismissed the charge.

Las Vegas Battery Trial:  Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. C.P. (Clark County District Court, 2012)

Our Las Vegas defense lawyers represented our client who was charged with the Nevada crime of battery with a deadly weapon and the Nevada crime of battery with substantial bodily harm.  Prosecutors accused him of starting a fight with a hotel security guard, who we argued was the aggressor in the altercation.  Shortly after closing arguments the jury returned “not guilty” verdicts on both felony counts.

Attempted Murder charge dismissed

State v. J.C. (Clark County District Court, 2012)

The client was charged with the Nevada crime of attempted murder and other felonies. The court dismissed the charges after the prosecution presented prejudicial evidence to the grand jury.

Prostitution charge dismissed

State v. J.M. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2012)

The client was charged with the Nevada crime of soliciting prostitution. The court dismissed the charge after the client completed an AIDS Awareness class.

Prostitution charge dismissed

State v. A.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2012)

The client was arrested for the Nevada crime of soliciting prostitution for propositioning an undercover cop. The judge dismissed the charge once the client completed an AIDS Awareness class and paid a $250 fine.

Las Vegas Kidnapping Trial:  Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. J.R. (Clark County District Court, 2011)

Our Las Vegas defense lawyers defended our client at trial on charges of allegedly conspiring with two other people to kidnap a senior citizen.  Our firm succeeded in demonstrating to the jury that our client was too intoxicated to understand his co-conspirators’ intentions.  Therefore our client was found “not guilty” of the Nevada crime of kidnapping which would’ve brought a possible life sentence.

Pahrump Sexual Misconduct Trial:  Jury Verdict of “Not Guilty”

State v. D.T. (Nye County District Court, 2011)

Our client was serving as a Nye County Sheriff’s Deputy when he was accused of sexual misconduct with a female prisoner.  At his trial, our Las Vegas criminal defense lawyers showed the jury that the police failed to follow proper investigative procedures, such as medically examining the alleged victim.  Our lawyers also presented evidence that the alleged victim may have falsely accused our client in an attempt to get a shorter jail sentence for herself.  The jury deliberated for less than an hour before returning a “not guilty” verdict on both felony counts, which otherwise could have carried up to eight years in prison.

DUI reduced to reckless driving

State v. F.X. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

Client’s charge for the Nevada crime of DUI was reduced to Nevada crime of reckless driving once the client paid a fine and attended Nevada DUI School and a victim impact panel.

Petit Larceny charge dismissed

State v. J.P. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

Our client was charged with the Nevada crime of petit larceny. The judge agreed to dismiss the charges completely after she paid a $250 fine.

Grand larceny reduced to petit larceny

State v. M.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was arrested for the Nevada crime of grand larceny after stealing groceries from a supermarket.  The court reduced the charge to petit larceny after the client attended petty larceny school and performed community service.

Petit Larceny charge dismissed

State v. B.S. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was accused of the Nevada crime of petit larceny. The charge was dropped after he paid a $500 fine and completed a petit larceny class.

Battery reduced to disorderly conduct

State v. J.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was arrested for battery for bumping into a cop.  The charge was reduced to the Nevada crime of disorderly conduct, and the client received credit for time served.

Grand larceny reduced to petit larceny

State v. A.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was charged with the Nevada crime of grand larceny after taking appliances from his rented home to reimburse himself for the security deposit that his landlord refused to return.  The charge was reduced to petit larceny once the client paid restitution in Nevada and performed thirty hours of community service.

Prostitution charge dismissed

State v. W.Y. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

Our client was booked for the solicitation of prostitution.  The client then submitted to a charge of the Nevada crime of trespass, which was dismissed once he paid $250 to the court.

Trespass charge dismissed

State v. V.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

Our client was arrested for the Nevada crime of trespass after questioning Wynn security’s request that he leave the premises.  The case was dismissed after the client paid $250.

DUI reduced to reckless driving

State v. A.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was arrested for the Nevada crime of DUI with a blood alcohol level at .125.  Through negotiation, the prosecution agreed to reduce the charge to the Nevada crime of reckless driving once the client attended Nevada DUI School and a victim impact panel, paid a fine, and performed community service.

Prostitution reduced to a trespass

State v. T.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was arrested for Nevada crime of soliciting prostitution.  The court reduced the charge to the Nevada crime of trespass after client took an AIDS awareness class and paid a fine.

Possession of drug paraphernalia dismissed

State v. D.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client was arrested for the Nevada crime of drug paraphernalia possession.  The case was dismissed after the client took a lower level drug counseling class and paid a fine.

Vehicular manslaughter reduced to reckless driving

State v. G.A. (North Las Vegas Municipal Court, 2011)

The client was involved in a car accident with a motorcyclist who died.  The initial charge of the Nevada crime of vehicular manslaughter was reduced down to the Nevada crime of reckless driving when the client paid a fine, performed community service, and completed Level II Traffic School.

Burglary and Home Invasion charges dismissed

State v. A.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2011)

The client had an altercation with his girlfriend which resulted in him being arrested for the Nevada crime of burglary, the Nevada crime of home invasion, and the Nevada crime of battery domestic violence.  As part of a plea bargain, client pleaded to domestic violence and the burglary and home invasion charges were dismissed.  The client needed to pay a fine, attend domestic violence counseling, and do community service.

Battery Domestic Violence trial:  Case dismissed before trial

State v. A.A. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2010)

The client was charged with the Nevada crime of battery domestic violence.  Our Nevada criminal defense lawyers refused to settle and took the case to trial, where the deputy district attorney conceded there was insufficient evidence to move forward.  The case was dismissed before trial.

Casino Marker charges dismissed

State v. S.Y. (Las Vegas Justice Court, 2009)

The client had $50,000 in unpaid casino markers.  Our Nevada criminal defense attorneys negotiated a settlement where the client repaid only eighty percent.  Client’s charges for the Nevada crime of casino markers were then dismissed.