Mokena, IL asked in Immigration Law for Illinois

Q: Hi ive been elgible for naturalization for a long time 15+yrs

I was arrested when i was 18 (32 now) for a marijuana pipe in a car of 5 others who would not attest to it being one of theirs and i as the driver was held as the responsible party. However the case was nolle proseqi before i ever had to attend court. Will i have issues applying for naturalization.

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Your past arrest for a marijuana-related incident where the case was nolle prosequi generally means that the charges were not pursued further. This outcome is often viewed more favorably during the naturalization process compared to a conviction. Since the case did not proceed to court, it may have a limited impact on your application.

However, it's important to be fully transparent on your naturalization forms. You will need to disclose any arrests or legal issues, even if they did not result in charges or convictions. Providing complete and honest information helps avoid potential complications or delays in your application.

To ensure that your application is handled correctly, consider consulting with an immigration attorney. They can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation and help address any concerns related to your past arrest. Taking these steps can improve your chances of a smooth naturalization process.

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