The intersection of immigration status and criminal charges creates some of the most complex legal situations families face. An ICE detainer, a deportation order, or criminal charges against a non-citizen can trigger consequences that extend far beyond the criminal case itself. This section covers how ICE detention works, the difference between criminal custody and immigration detention, how deportation proceedings interact with pending criminal charges, voluntary departure and what it means for future immigration options, and what rights non-citizens have when facing both criminal prosecution and immigration enforcement simultaneously. The questions answered here come from families navigating two legal systems at once, often across multiple jurisdictions. The guidance is practical and plain-language because the stakes are too high for confusion. An immigration attorney with criminal law experience is essential in these situations and this section explains why and how to find one. See also our sections on Inmate Transfer and Law Questions and Legal Terms.