The recently enacted Laken Riley Act, signed into law on January 29, 2025, introduces significant changes to immigration enforcement and detention policies in the United States. If you or a family member might be affected by this new law, our experienced Atlanta immigration lawyers at Antonini & Cohen are here to help you understand and navigate these new changes to the law.
Contact Antonini & Cohen today to schedule an in-depth consultation and discuss how these new changes might affect your immigration status.
Understanding the Laken Riley Act
The Laken Riley Act introduces two major changes to immigration law:
Expanded Mandatory Detention
The law now requires mandatory detention for noncitizens who have:
Been arrested, charged, or convicted of specific crimes, or
Admitted to the essential elements of certain offenses
These crimes include:
Theft
Burglary
Larceny
Shoplifting
Assault of a law enforcement officer
Any crime resulting in serious injury or death
New State Authority
The attorney general of any state now may sue the U.S. Attorney General or Secretary of Homeland Security for any decision to parole or grant bond to a noncitizen that harms such state or its residents, including financial harm exceeding $100.
Likewise, the attorney general of any state may now sue the Secretary of Homeland Security for any violation of the mandatory detention provision that harms such state or its residents, including financial harm exceeding $100.
Important Uncertainties and Legal Implications of the Laken Riley Act
Several critical aspects of the law remain unclear:
Whether the law will apply retroactively
How it affects those who previously had relevant offenses waived
It’s impact on lawful permanent residents and visa holders entering the US
Don't wait to protect your immigration status. Call Antonini & Cohen at (470) 428-3200 or contact us through our online form to schedule a consultation with an experienced Atlanta immigration lawyer. At Antonini & Cohen, we know how.