Palm Beach, FL Immigration Law Firms & Lawyers

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).

My recommendation is that you seek the advice of a qualified immigration attorney. From your description, the more recent problem with marijuana is the more troubling, especially because it would appear to have occurred during the period for which you must establish that you are a person of good moral character. Keep in mind that cases which result in no action or even in the dismissal of charges after completion of a diversion program can still be used by CIS in determining whether you meet the good moral character requirement. CIS has become increasingly more and more difficult about approving cases where there is any problem suggesting any lapse of judgment questioning one's character. So best advice is to find someone who is qualified to discuss the concerns with you and who can provide some guidance on the possible issues that you may face in submitting the Form N-400. This case doesn't look like an absolute no. Instead an understanding that you may face issues with review of the case. Find someone good and you will be rewarded many times over by being placed in a position to make an informed decision.

You may be able to prove the father's physical presence in the U.S. through objective documentation like school records, records of property ownership, phone book records, social security earnings, tax filings, medical records, etc. You may want to contact an attorney to discuss your options. Sometimes a private investigator can be useful in locating needed information.