Q: Applying for citizenship with shoplifting incident that happened 12 years ago.
I had this incident happened 12 years ago in 2006 and was seeking asylum at the moment (merchandise of 22$ worse). I payed all fines and received certified court letter that case has been dismissed.
(It was class B misdemeanor with 12 month probation)
In 2011 I applied for green card and received it.My first application was denied cause I didn't include dismissal notice from court. 2nd one was approved since i send them all required court related paperwork.
Now I’m applying for citizenship and having concerns if this incident could put me in deportation procedure. Since than I never had any problems with law enforcement. 1 speeding ticket about 10 years ago and some traffic violations like red cam or stop sign..5-6 of them within12 years period.(no DWI's or smth serious)
Should I be worried and not apply for citizenship or am I eligible for petty theft exception?
I'm the only income provider in a family.Wife is a homemaker and we have 1 year old child.
Thanks for advice!
A:
To be qualified for naturalization, you need to demonstrate that you have been a person of good moral character for the past 5 years. A shoplifting conviction which occurred 12 years ago will not prevent you from establishing that you are a person of good moral character.
Good luck!
Carl Shusterman
www.shusterman.com
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