Acquisition of citizenship, either through naturalization, by birth abroad or through your parents presents challenging and complex questions.

For most people who have immigrated to the United States, acquiring US citizenship is a life long dream that means they are now full-fledged members of American society.   Often legal residents need to become citizens to obtain federal jobs, more quickly be able to reunite with family members outside the US and, of course, to vote in US elections.  For most, applying for citizenship is a straight forward process they can manage on their own without the aid of counsel.

Often however, issues arise concerning eligibility for citizenship that are not easily dealt with by the average applicant.  Criminal convictions, even of a minor nature, can affect eligibility and lead to deportation or removal proceedings.  Other conduct such as failing to pay overdue taxes, not supporting your children and failing to register for selective service could affect eligibility.  Often applicants who have made frequent or prolonged trips outside the US are confused about residence requirements.

Language, history and civics examinations can present challenges to applicants as well.  Knowing the rules, exception and waivers to testing requirements can be invaluable.

Many times complicated questions about whether a person has acquired citizenship at birth abroad, or through his or her parents after birth present themselves and cannot be easily answered.   Thus experienced legal counsel can prove invaluable to citizenship applicants.    

Lawful permanent residents