Naturalization despite Criminal Charge

Attorney Mooradian's client, a long-time resident of the United States, was recently naturalized at the USCIS Lawrence Field Office.  The client had entered the United States over four decades ago and had long had lawful permanent resident status.  However, he had failed to file his application for naturalization due to a criminal charge from the State of New York.  Mooradian was able to obtain certified dockets relating to the charge.  After assessing the immigration consequences of the conviction, Mooradian opted to forego post-conviction relief and argue that the conviction was not a bar to relief. The USCIS office agreed, and then balanced the equities in the case under a good moral character standard.  Ultimately, given the strong work history of Mooradian's client and the arguments presented, the officer approved the application for naturalization. The client was sworn in during a small ceremony at the Field Office that day.

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