Q: What steps to take in order to have a successful citizenship procedure?
I am a permanent green card holder back in 2019 I became involve with a criminal case dealing with the crime of obtaining property by false pretense. I was placed in this program the public defender suggest me and later on 2020 the case was dismissed. I am wanting to become a citizen and would like to know about the negative effect this charge will have against me.
A:
First; depending on how you got your LPR status; You are not eligible to file for NATZ until you have been an LPR for 3 or 5 years.
Based on the limited information your provided; it sounds like you entered into a program, probation, or other form of predisposition in exchange for a dismissal. IF the foregoing is the case you are considered guilty for immigration purposes. this may impact your ability to show Good Moral Character for the purpose of NATZ.
To know whether you will need to wait a full five years or whether you are eligible for the Petty offense Exception or whether you could be placed in removal proceedings will require more information. I suggest consult with an experienced immigration attorney before applying for NATZ
Agnes Jury agrees with this answer
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