Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Effects of Past Criminal Records on Current Application Qualifications

To whom this my concern,

At the age of 18, I was convicted of auto tampering (a Misdemeanor) in the state of California. I did not serve any jail time, but i did go through community service. Also, at the age of 20 or 21 I spent 30 minutes in a holding cell for vending without a license in the state of Washington D.C.. As far as the event in D.C. I was not aware of any wrong doing on my part. I was only helping out a relative on that day when the authority came to check for licenses. Ultimately I paid a fine of $50 and a mandatory 30 minutes jail time before they let me go. I have been in the clear of any further incidences since California and D.C. I am now 25 years of age and looking to gain citizenship status in the hopes of obtaining a full time position with my current employer (a government contractor) following my graduation and internship program. My question is how will these events hurt my chances of citizenship and what can I do to improve my position. Any and All information/advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thank You


Asked on 11/28/01, 5:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Larry L. Doan Law Office of Larry L. Doan

Re: Effects of Past Criminal Records on Current Application Qualifications

Shouldn't be any problem because these are two minor crimes (the 2nd one is probably just an infraction). Just make sure you answer truthfully on the citizenship application and at the INS interview.

Liem Doan, Esq.

Read more
Answered on 11/28/01, 8:33 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Immigration Law questions and answers in California