US Citizenship Application with Petty Theft Infraction

[kevinkp444]

I live in California and I am a permanent resident (green card holder) since last 7 yrs now. However, during this 7 years of my stay in US, I was charged with Petty Theft Infraction (first time offense) 2 yrs back. I was caught shoplifting at store and the officer charged me with Petty Theft PC 484-488. I hired a criminal attorney and we pleaded "NO CONTEST" and she worked out a deal in court to get my charges reduce to Petty Theft Infraction PC 490.1 and I paid the fine in the court. The DA finally brought down the charges from Petty Theft Misdemeanor to PC 490.1 Infraction. There was no Jail time or any Probation. Will this First Time Petty Theft Offense fall under Petty Offense Exception when I apply for US Citizenship? I am already eligible to apply for US Citizenship in few months. I am seeking advice to find out, if Petty Theft Infraction is considered as a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude or not? Will it effect my US Citizenship Application? Will I be denied of US Citizenship? Is Infraction considered as a CIMT which can effect in US Citizenship application? Kindly, please advice. Thanks,

 

[Jackolantern]

See an immigration lawyer with expertise in criminal matters.

 

[Bobsmyth]

You've previously asked the same question 2 years ago on different forums and more recently on yahoo..have you since contacted an immigration attorney specilaized in criminal law?

http://www.immigration-information....etty-theft-charges-denies-us-citizenship.html

http://www.thelaw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19586

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100419135854AAm6vf4

That being said, if you pleaded no contest to original charge of Petty Theft 484-488 it is considered a conviction for immigration purposes. Petty theft can be a deportable offense, but you also may qualify for Petty Theft exception.
Also, the conviction for immigration purposes is a CIMT that falls within the statutory period for GMC determination. If you apply now you have a good chance of being denied for lack of good moral character.
Again, discuss the case details with an immigration lawyer specialized in criminal law to determine how it affects your immigration status and chances for naturalization.