QUESTION
Will my theft case affect my filing for citizenship?
Asked on Jul 26th, 2011 on Immigration - California
More details to this question:
I want to file a citizenship and,i have a petty theft case but it was expunged this july 25,2011. I'm just wondering it it will affect for my filling.
6 ANSWERS
Criminal Law Attorney serving Las Vegas, NV
at
Reza Athari & Associates, PLLC
Update Your Profile
You should never expunge any record before you become a US citizen because, expungement does not make the crime go away for immigration purposes. I will have to see the original court minutes before expungement to be able to advise you.
Answered on Aug 05th, 2011 at 5:09 PM
LCA Audits and Investigations Attorney serving Houston, TX
at
Fong Ilagan
Update Your Profile
Yes, a theft case may keep the USCIS officer from determining that you are a "person of good moral character", which is a requirement for naturalization. The expungement does nothing, as it does not change the fact that you committed a crime, were arrested, charged and convicted. You may need to wait for five years beyond the final disposition of your criminal case. Consult with an immigration attorney to review the criminal record.
Answered on Aug 05th, 2011 at 3:59 PM
It depends when you were arrested. Need to have a 5 year clean history. Call us for a consultation.
Answered on Aug 05th, 2011 at 3:18 PM
Immigration & Naturalization Attorney serving Seattle, WA
at
Julian & Chin, LLP
Update Your Profile
You should absolutely be concerned about a theft conviction affecting your naturalization eligibility. An expungement or vacation of a criminal conviction will not
Answered on Aug 05th, 2011 at 12:03 PM
Corporate & Incorporation Attorney serving Coral Gables, FL
at
Hans Burgos, P.A., Immigration Law Offices
Update Your Profile
Depends on when the crime was committed.
Answered on Aug 05th, 2011 at 11:51 AM
You may have a problem if the maximum sentence that could have been imposed is at least one year. It does not matter if the conviction was subsequently expunged. You should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before applying for citizenship.
Answered on Aug 05th, 2011 at 10:44 AM