Bringing In And Harboring Aliens Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
Federal charges for bringing in and harboring aliens in Maryland are serious felonies under 8 U.S.C. § 1324, carrying severe penalties. A conviction can result in decades in prison, massive fines, and permanent consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals accused of these federal immigration crimes.
Federal Law on Bringing In And Harboring Aliens
The federal statute criminalizing bringing in and harboring aliens is 8 U.S.C. § 1324. This law makes it a felony to knowingly bring an alien into the United States, transport them within the country, or conceal, harbor, or shield them from detection. The prosecution must prove you acted knowingly and for financial gain or commercial purpose in many cases. The law is designed to combat human smuggling and trafficking operations.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | United States Code.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a long history of handling complex federal cases. We understand the severe stakes involved in these charges and approach each case with the detailed preparation it demands.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, you can review 8 U.S.C. § 1324 (U.S. Code). For information on federal court procedures in Maryland, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defending Against Harboring Charges in Maryland
Defending against charges of bringing in and harboring aliens requires a case-specific approach that challenges the government’s evidence. A common defense is a lack of knowledge—arguing you did not know the individual was in the country unlawfully. Other defenses may involve challenging the legality of evidence collection or proving the actions were not for financial gain as required by certain parts of the statute. The procedural rules in federal court are strict, and missing a deadline can harm your case.
- Initial Arrest & Arraignment: You will be brought before a federal magistrate judge, informed of the charges, and asked to enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense lawyer will file motions to challenge evidence and review all materials the government plans to use.
- Plea Negotiations: The U.S. Attorney’s Office may offer a plea deal. Your attorney will advise if accepting it is in your best interest or if proceeding to trial is better.
- Trial Preparation: If no plea is reached, your team will prepare for trial, including selecting a jury and planning your defense strategy.
- Sentencing (if convicted): Federal sentencing follows strict guidelines. Your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence possible.
Potential Penalties for Harboring Aliens
In Maryland federal court, bringing in and harboring aliens is a serious felony with penalties that increase based on the specific circumstances of the case.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bringing in/Harboring (General) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Forfeiture of assets used |
| Bringing in/Harboring for Commercial Advantage | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Mandatory asset forfeiture |
| Causing Serious Bodily Injury or Placing Life in Jeopardy | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Enhanced sentencing |
| Resulting in Death | Federal Felony | Any term of years or life | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Possible death penalty |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Federal Immigration Crimes
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that federal charges for bringing in and harboring aliens are uniquely complex, involving overlapping areas of criminal and immigration law. Our approach is to build a defense that addresses both the immediate criminal charges and any potential collateral immigration consequences.
Case Results in Federal Court
Our defense lawyers have achieved positive results for clients facing serious federal allegations. In one case, we successfully argued for the suppression of key evidence obtained through an improper search, skilled to a significant reduction in charges. In another, detailed negotiation with federal prosecutors resulted in the dismissal of the most serious harboring counts. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on federal criminal matters in Maryland is Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Her experience on the prosecution side provides valuable insight into how the government builds these cases.
Finding a Bringing In And Harboring Aliens Lawyer Near You
If you are searching for a “bringing in and harboring aliens lawyer near me” in Maryland, our firm is accessible to clients across the state. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your situation. Our Maryland location in Rockville is by appointment only, ensuring we can dedicate our full attention to your case.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
We serve clients throughout Maryland, including in communities near federal courthouses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “harboring an alien” mean under federal law?
It means knowingly concealing, harboring, or shielding an undocumented non-citizen from detection by immigration authorities. This can include providing housing, transportation, or employment. The government must prove you knew the person’s unlawful status.
Can I go to prison just for letting someone stay in my home?
It depends. If you knowingly provided shelter to someone you knew was in the U.S. illegally, you could face charges. A strong criminal charges defense often focuses on challenging the “knowingly” element. Proving a lack of knowledge is a common and critical defense strategy.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony for this charge?
Bringing in and harboring aliens is almost always charged as a federal felony, not a state misdemeanor. The penalties are far more severe than for typical state-level crimes, including longer prison sentences in federal prison and much larger fines.
Why do I need a federal criminal defense lawyer and not just any attorney?
Federal court procedures, evidence rules, and sentencing guidelines are completely different from state court. A criminal court lawyer with specific federal experience understands how to handle the U.S. Attorney’s Office, federal pre-trial motions, and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which is essential for an effective defense.
What should I do if I am contacted by ICE or the FBI about this?
Do not answer any questions. Politely state you wish to speak with a criminal attorney and then call one immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. A defense lawyer can communicate with investigators on your behalf to protect your rights from the very start.
Internal Links: For more on our federal practice, see our Federal Criminal Defense overview. For related Maryland criminal defense, learn about Maryland Criminal Defense. For help in another area, see our page for Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.