Flagler Beach, FL Immigration Law Firms & Lawyers

You may qualify for derivative citizenship. *Derivative Citizenship* In some cases, people are U.S. Citizens and do not know it. In this case, it is possible for us to file what is known as a Derivative Citizenship Petition. It is a petition that if approved, will give proof of U.S. Citizenship. There is a significant amount of evidence that would be required for this type of petition, but if done properly, there is a reasonable chance of success.

If you are a U. S. citizen, and are thinking to apply for your intended’s permanent residence, the fact of the overstay will not prevent her from obtaining her permanent residence. As the spouse of a U. S. citizen, she would fall within the class of immediate relatives who are allowed to adjust status even if overstayed. Due to the limitations of the Lawyers.com Forums, Alan Lee, Esq.'s (the "Firm") participation in responding to questions posted herein does not constitute legal advice, nor legal representation of the person or entity posting a question. No Attorney/Client relationship is or shall be construed to be created hereby. The information provided herein by the Firm is general, and requires that the poster obtain specific legal advice from an attorney. The poster shall not rely upon the information provided herein as legal advice nor as the basis for making any decisions of legal consequence.

It could result in the denial of your petition for a permanent residence status because the government is only interest in granting such privileges to individuals you demonstrate an ability to abide by our laws. They are especially looking a crimes of moral turpitude - meaning crimes that call to question your ability to be honest and trustworthy. Shoplifting (theft) is typically considered one of such crimes. Moreover, these days, it doesn't seem to matter whether it is a crime resulting in misdemeanor (minor crimes) or felony (serious crime).