Legal Question in Immigration Law in Washington

Hello - I have an immigration question. I am a Canadian who has lived in Washington State for 29 years with a green card. My wife is an American citizen. We are about to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. What effect will this have on my obtaining American citizenship?


Asked on 11/09/09, 12:23 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Alice Yardum-Hunter Alice M. Yardum-Hunter, a Law Corp.

To qualify for U.S. citizenship, one must prove good moral character for at least the period of time since getting the green card. One way of doing that (along with other things) is to show payment of required taxes or fulfilling agreement to pay installments to the IRS. Bankruptcy itself does not mean you are not of good moral character.

As this issue is coming up more and more in naturalization cases, but historically is unusual, I believe you could benefit from representation to prove your good character. Immigration Officers don't always know the law. Representation by competent counsel would better insure success in your case.

The above doesn't create an attorney client relationship and is not legal advice. Representation begins upon mutually agreed contract to provide legal services in the future, not based on online response to questions.

I look forward to the opportunity of working with you in the future.

Sincerely,

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Answered on 11/14/09, 3:25 pm


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