Citizenship interview with past criminal history

[smsalto]

Not that I'm worried too much about my past criminal history (it was actually misdemeanor and was all cleared up after winning an appeal and dismissed case) but I'd really like to know if it's generally recommended to go to an inteview with an immigration attroney in this case... For example, attorney could potentially answer very unfomfortable questions for me or be a "proof" against some illegal biased actions that immigration officer might do. On the other hand wouldn't it look too self-serving to bring an attorney there and draw unnecessary attention to the things in my past that really don't play any major role in my application and/or good moral character?

Also, any good links for quick summary of questions/answers that they ask on such interviews?

 

[sbernal]

i think someone posted a thread in which he took the lawyer to the intervirew. Look at DUI, Divorce threat recently posted.

WARNING: There will be a poster by the name of chenwu, who will give you his useless 2 cents and righteous judgement. Ignore him.

 

[iluvfra]

smsalto,
I would suggest to take a competent attorney with you. But, I am also extra cautious. Just my thoughts on this....

Where are located? What;s oyur DO?

 

[Bobsmyth]

Not that I'm worried too much about my past criminal history (it was actually misdemeanor and was all cleared up after winning an appeal and dismissed case) but I'd really like to know if it's generally recommended to go to an inteview with an immigration attroney in this case... For example, attorney could potentially answer very unfomfortable questions for me or be a "proof" against some illegal biased actions that immigration officer might do. On the other hand wouldn't it look too self-serving to bring an attorney there and draw unnecessary attention to the things in my past that really don't play any major role in my application and/or good moral character?

Also, any good links for quick summary of questions/answers that they ask on such interviews?

Unless your case is complicated and/or you don't feel comfortable going to interview by yourself I don't see the need for a lawyer in your case.

 

[smsalto]

I was really hoping you'd say I don't need a lawyer since I don't have much time left to find one.

To previous question, I'm located in Portland. How is that relevant though? Do these kind of decisions depend on the location?

 

[Jackolantern]

Make sure you bring the court records to the interview, if you didn't already submit them with the application.

Consider bringing a lawyer, or at least consulting one before the interview, because you actually were found guilty initially, correct? Even though your case was eventually dismissed, it is possible you could still be considered convicted for immigration purposes. If the crime was a deportable offense (yes, some misdemeanors are like that) then for sure you should consult a lawyer before the interview.