How a domestic violence arrest or conviction can affect your Application for Citizenship.

How a domestic violence arrest or conviction can affect your Application for Citizenship

You have been a permanent resident for over 5 years and are interested in applying for citizenship.

But, you have an arrest or conviction related to an incident of domestic violence in the past. This could affect your citizenship application

In order to become a citizen, you must be a person of “good moral character”. So, even if charges were dropped, or you completed all terms of your sentence (like probation, classes, and counseling), this could still affect your application for citizenship.

Immigration regulations state that the applicant MUST show good moral character during the required period of residence. If you have been arrested or convicted for a crime of domestic violence, the law states that it is the applicant’s burden to show that he or she is a person of good moral character.

For example, Immigration defines that a crime of domestic violence is a “crime of moral turpitude.” This could impact your citizenship. Even though the law says that a commission of certain crimes does not prevent you from showing good moral character, an immigration officer can still consider the arrest or conviction.

Thus, it is important that if you are interested in applying for citizenship, but were arrested or convicted for a crime of domestic violence, to consult with an attorney who specializes in both criminal and immigration matters BEFORE filing your application for citizenship.

Call today to schedule a free consultation and get the defense you need.