I Have 2 DWI convictions does this affect gaining US Citizenship?

[MartinGT2006]

Hi, eveyone, I'm new to the forum, I would like to ask if I will have trouble becoming a US Citizen if I have 2 DWI convictions..

The First conviction happened in 1994, the second in 1999, I got probation for both of them and completed what the court ordered, classes, community service etc..I was told that these are misdemeanors but that the third conviction would become a felony. I know I did a big mistake, but I'm not a drunkard. I'm already established in this country, I have a family and I think I deserve a second chance.

I've decided to apply for citizenship but at this moment I'm hesitant.

My wife is a US Citizen, we got married in 1992 and probably was a huge mistake not to apply for citizenship 3 years after I got married.

5 years has passed since the second DWI.

Would this affect my application?

Certainly I don't want to spend 390 dollars + lawyers fees if I hire one only to be denied.

I would appreciate your help and knowledge.

 

[Rahul Kumar]

you got problems but i think you still wont be denied. if you can afford it retain an attorney. one good thing for you is that the events happened over 5 yrs ago

 

[MartinGT2006]

you got problems but i think you still wont be denied. if you can afford it retain an attorney. one good thing for you is that the events happened over 5 yrs ago

Thanks for your help and advice..

I really want to become a US Citizen..

I'll apply , Hopefully I will not find problems...

Thanks again for your advice.

 

[ocworker]

you got problems but i think you still wont be denied. if you can afford it retain an attorney. one good thing for you is that the events happened over 5 yrs ago

1 DWI is serious. 2 DWIs are something.
i do not think there is a rule saying the good moral characters only be considered in the past 5 yrs go. or is it true?

 

[Rahul Kumar]

ocworker,
Refer to "Temorary bar" under Good Moral Character subheading in Guide to Naturalization

 

[PG2006]

Certainly I don't want to spend 390 dollars + lawyers fees if I hire one only to be denied.

I would appreciate your help and knowledge.

The fee is not $390, but $400 ($330 N-400, $70 Fingerprints)

Your case is not a straight, w/o problems case and in my opinion the assistance of a lawyer is mandatory.

 

[boatbod]

I had a DWI 2.5 years ago. I am about to go apply for my citizenship. Will this cause any problems? Should driving accidents/tickets need to be listed in the n-400 form? please let me know.

A DUI/DWI only 2.5yrs ago is going to cause problems. Seek professional advice.

 

[Citizentobehz]

5 years of clearn record is the must. But, any past unfavorable incident, DUI, Domestic volience, etc. could trigge possible deny decision on your application. USCIS CAN and mostly WILL look beyong 5 years of your history to determine if your application will be granted. Misdemeanors or felony under State statue does not mean the same under Immigration Law. A shop lift under Immigrantion Law could be an deportable/inadmmisible offense, Any drug related conviction, especially related with trafficing, is consider an aggrevated felony under Immigration law regardless what state statue said.

So, please consult a legal preofessional before any filing is the wise choice. Also, do remember, this is a discussion forum, don't take it as any legal advice.