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Applying for US citizenship with disorderly conduct
Anonymous7 views3 answers
Hi
I am contacting you because i am applying for my US citizenship. I am a legal resident since 1993 (Green card) and was arrested on 1997 for petite larceny. I have a copy of my court disposition letter and says it was reduced to disorderly. its been over 18 years and was my first and only offense since this charge and never been involved with the law since. Could I still be denied citizenship because of this charge? Do you think I need to have a lawyer present with me during in US citizenship interview?
Your responses will be greatly appreciated
Pedro A. MirandaImmigration AttorneyHollywood, FL ·
Having a lawyer is never a bad idea. That being said, you have to show good moral conduct during the five years immediately preceding your application for citizenship, so, a Petty Larceny, reduced to Disorderly Conduct, that happened 18 years ago should not be a problem. The examiner has discretion to look at conduct beyond the five years but, this being your only minor brush with the law, there is no reason for them to do so. just be careful to answer honestly and truthfully as you will get into trouble if they feel you are hiding something or not being completely honest.
These cases are looked at on a case-by-case basis. Even if one thinks they have established "good moral conduct" during the statutory time period, there are other factors that can be grounds for denial. An immigration lawyer experienced in this area of the law can examine your N-400 BEFORE you submit your application and if warranted accompany you to an interview.
As my colleagues mentioned, this will probably not be a problem.
BUT, you would benefit from talking to a lawyer and having a complete copy of all the police/court records.
