Should I apply for citizenship despite a felony record?

Here's my story. I didn't apply for citizenship because I have (1) felony conviction code 11378 hs . I got 180 days community service, no jail time . I renewed my green card just recently and received my new card without any problems. Maybe I got lucky. I need a second opinion. My attorney suggests that I should apply for a citizenship. I'm aware that I'm permanently barred from becoming a citizen due to felony conviction. He said the law is not that straight forward and that my case has a good chance because it's my only conviction and it happened 11 years ago and have not done anything wrong since. And deporting me would be unusually cruel because I came to US as a young child and lived most of my life here. He suggest that if I get denied, then I should file for 212C. Whatever the reasons are, I'm confused and worried. Am I asking for trouble if I apply for citizenship? Is it possible for me to become a US citizen? Did the INS overlook my conviction document when they approved my green card renewal? Don't they run a fingerprint check with the FBI? I could just be a permanent resident for rest of my life if I don't encounter trouble when traveling outside of US but, I know that I will if I do. I would like to visit my native country to see my wife's family. My attorney seems like a decent man. I don't think he is telling me to do things that will jeopardize my status just because he wants to make money. What should I do? Your comments, suggestions and knowledge will be greatly appreciated.