Legal Question in Criminal Law in United Kingdom

Visa applications

I am a US resident. 2 years ago I was arrested for shoplifting and charged with Misdemeanor 2. I pleaded not guilty and the charges were dropped, so I was not convicted. The case has been dismissed.

My question is, if I am applying for a visit visa (for eg to UK) to another country, for a vacation, do I have to disclose my arrest? I checked in the UK visa they ask if I have ever been convicted of a crime. The answer in my case would be no, right?

I have been to UK and over Europe, several times before the arrest. I have never been denied a visa in any country.

We are planning a holiday, so I would appreciate your advise. Thankyou!


Asked on 9/27/05, 2:08 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Visa applications

If you pleaded not guilty and the state subsequently decided to drop the shoplifting charge("nolle prosequi'd"), then you were never convicted of that particular crime with which you were charged and you may now truthfully swear to this fact under any circumstances which may require such.

Of course, if the inquiry was whether you had ever been arrested, that, obviously, would require your response in the affirmative.

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Answered on 9/27/05, 3:07 pm
Fred Kaufman Fredrick S. Kaufman, Esquire

Re: Visa applications

You say you have never been convicted. You answer your own question. If they want to investigate your arrest, they would find it unless it has been expunged but nondisclosure of an arrest is not grounds for denial of a visa application.

Good luck

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Answered on 9/28/05, 12:18 am


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