Asked 5/23/2016 – Sherman, TX

I am 21 years old. I have had my Permanent Residency Card since April 24 2008. In May of 2013 (18 years of age) I committed a Reckless Driving offence in which charges were issued. I got arrested in September or October of 2013 and pleaded guilty in January of 2014 to a Class C Misdemeanor for Reckless Driving. The judge only sentenced me to pay court cost and fines totally no more than $500.00 or $600.00. I did not receive probation nor Jail-time. (I did spent about 8 hours in jail when I initially got arrested until I was bailed out.) I have had no other crimes or altercations with the law aside from a speeding ticket or two. I am looking to file for my Citizenship this year (2016). I am nervous and wondering if my case will get denied, if I will run into any problems, or if I should be okay. Also what should I expect? Please help. I appreciate you in taking the time to answer my question. Thank you.

Answer

Your entire criminal history will be reviewed in examining your petition for citizenship. The arrest affidavit in your case (if any, since your case was a class c) along with the final disposition must be presented. This is not a crime of moral turpitude, and the punishment range for the offense you were charged with did not have a potential jail sentence, so that is in your favor. Contact a local immigration attorney for specifics.