Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Immigration marriage fraud is a serious federal crime punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $250,000 fine.

There is no defense to fraud itself except if it were not fraud. That's not to say she's required to admit it. The government would have to prove it's case beyond a reasonable doubt and she has the right to remain silent. She might plead to a lesser charge. It doesn't matter that she only accepted a small amount of money. She could have accepted zero money and it could still have been fraud, but payment surely shows evidence of fraud.

She needs to hire as good a criminal lawyer as she can possibly afford. Depending where you're located, I might be able to make a referral. Feel free to contact me offline at 818 609 1953 or [email protected]. My expertise is in immigration. In her case, this would be criminal and that's the kind of lawyer she needs.

Sincerely,