criminal conviction

[hart]

I have been scheduled for my interview in 5 days. I have one criminal charge in my life, in Canada, 24 years ago. I have never been in ANY trouble since then. The charge was for conspiracy to commit fraud, because I signed a purchase order ( I was the purchasing agent) that was later used to defraud a company. I have had a B-1 temp. work visa years ago and the charge did not appear. I do not know how to approach this during my interview, what to say and what not to say. I did not serve any time and was only fined lightly for my part in this. I am very worried about this as my wife is my sponsor and we currently living in the USA. Can I be deported for a charge from 24 years ago? I have no paperwork here from this charge. Will it defenitly show up in my backround check? I have been finger printed numerous times by the FBI for license requirements, over the years, and have never heard of any problems showing up. thank you

[hart]

I was hoping that someone in the field could help me out with a little advice, other than bring a lawyer. I left it too long for my lawyer to come to the intreview. I am really nervous about saying the wrong thing.....thank you

[spungebob]

man, i understand how you feel...
i just had my interview yesterday and i had not exactly the same problem but close... if you want to read my story it is here
i was honest with our officer and told him how it all was... to prove i gave him disposition letter from court, investigation report from PD, letter from my employer at that time and from lady i lived with (they both were involved and helped me out a lot)...
i think you should be fine... tell officer the truth... i think it is very important... i wish you good luck!
by the way, we got approved and went home happy. everything worked out pretty well...

[hart]

Thanks SB.... Mine was so long ago that I don't have any paperwork at all. It was left at my first wifes house 20 years ago. Do you think they will give me a second interview in order to go back to Canada and get the court papers? ( assuming they are still on file)...Man, I am worried sick!!

[spungebob]

what did you answer to the question about arrests and convictions?
i think you anyway should mention it right after an officer swears you. that's what i've been advised to do... so i did actually...
hope for best, be positive, and don't worry a lot...
you should be fine, man!

[hart]

When I think about it, my lawyer made out all the forms, etc. We just signed them. My biometrics went smooth and I have my Temp. work visa and have applied for my SSN. I am also going to Charlotte at 8am for my interview.

[spungebob]

so you guys have a lawyer... what is he saying about this situation?

[hart]

SB.... She told us the same thing you did! After the swearing in, ask to bring forward information about my past that may need clarification. Tell my story and be honest about what happened. Downplay it as much as possible, without lying about it. She does not forsee any problems.....with what you have said and what she has said, I will still be a wreck, but I do feel better going in. Thanks a million......when I get home next week I will let you know how it went! Thanks again.

[spungebob]

no problem, man! i wish you best!