What happens if I refuse to leave the United States?

If you refuse to leave the United States when ordered to do so by immigration authorities in California, you could face serious consequences. Immigration laws allow for the removal or deportation of people who are unlawfully present in the United States. Refusing to leave when ordered to do so could result in criminal charges and/or civil fines, and your removal would then be considered an “involuntary departure” from the United States. If you are found to have refused to leave the United States, immigration authorities in California have the power to issue a removal order which will require you to be removed immediately. You may also be placed in deportation proceedings where your case will be heard before an immigration judge. During this hearing, the judge will consider your individual circumstances, and can either grant removal from the United States or allow you to stay. If you are found to have refused to leave the United States after having been ordered to do so, you may also face criminal charges. In California, the penalty for refusing to leave the United States can include jail time and fines. In addition, this criminal charge could put you in a more difficult situation when it comes to reapplying to enter the United States in the future. In short, if you are ordered to leave the United States and you refuse to do so, you could face serious immigration, civil, and criminal consequences. It is best to consult an attorney before deciding whether or not to follow an immigration order.

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