Citizenship And Naturalization Attorney

The journey toward United States citizenship is a monumental step that offers you the full protection and benefits of the U.S. Constitution. Unfortunately for many, this goal feels out of reach due to anxiety about interviews, complex forms or past mistakes.

At The Law Offices of Franklin S. Montero, our legal team understands exactly what you are going through. Our attorney, Franklin Montero, comes from a Dominican immigrant family and has built this practice to be a safe, welcoming place for our community. We provide the compassionate coaching you need to walk into your interview with confidence. Our immigration attorney handles citizenship and naturalization cases for clients nationwide.

Understanding Citizenship And Naturalization In The U.S.

In the U.S., citizenship is a specific legal status, while naturalization is the legal path used to reach that status. Understanding how these terms apply to your situation is the first step in your journey.

Naturalization is the legal process through which the government grants U.S. citizenship to a lawful permanent resident (LPR). To qualify, you must meet specific requirements:

• You must be 18 years of age or older when you submit your application.
• You must have LPR status for at least five years, though this is reduced to three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.
• You must show that the country has been your primary home for the last five years and that you have lived in your current state or local district for at least three months.
• You must prove that you were physically in the country for at least half of the required residency period (30 months for most or 18 months for spouses of citizens).
• You must demonstrate a history of good moral character during your time as a resident.
• You must pass a basic test on reading, writing and speaking English, as well as an exam on U.S. history and how the government works.
• You must show that you believe in and support the principles and ideals found in the U.S. Constitution.

In some cases, you can obtain citizenship automatically through parents who are United States citizens. This typically happens at birth or before the child reaches the age of 18.

What A Citizenship Attorney Can Do For You

The application process can be overwhelming, especially if you are worried about the English or civics exams. Our naturalization attorney acts as your partner and coach from the moment you walk through our doors. With attorney Montero’s help, you can avoid the small errors that lead to long delays or denials.

We do more than just file paperwork. We provide test preparation guidance and help you practice for your interview so that language barriers do not stand in your way. If you have a minor criminal history, we review your record to ensure it will not trigger a deportation proceeding or a denial of your “good moral character” requirement.

Common Questions About Citizenship And Naturalization

Many people delay their application because they are unsure of their eligibility or what happens if things go wrong. Here are the most common questions we hear from our clients.

How long do I need to be a permanent resident before I can apply?

Generally, you must be an LPR for at least five years. That said, if you are married to an American citizen, you can apply after only three years.

What happens if I fail the citizenship test or interview?

If you do not pass the English or civics portion of the test, you are usually given a second chance. The government will schedule a follow-up interview within 60 to 90 days to retest you on the specific section you missed.

Can I become a U.S. citizen if I have a criminal record?

Having a criminal record does not always stop you from becoming a citizen. While “aggravated felonies” are a permanent bar, many minor offenses can be explained or waived. We will review your specific history to determine your legal options.

Having these answers helps you move forward with a clear plan. We will make sure you know exactly what to expect so there are no surprises on the day of your appointment.

Talk To Attorney Montero Today For Citizenship Application Help

You have worked hard to build a life in this country, and you deserve the security that citizenship provides. Don’t let fear of the test or past experiences keep you from your goal. Our legal team is ready to help you complete your journey and become a United States citizen. Call us at 973-869-5556 or fill out this online intake form to know how we can help. We serve clients nationwide. Se habla español.  We have a branch office in Miami.