Moral Character Question

[Tracey&Greg 36]

Please don't judge my husbands past mistake. My husband had retail theft on his background from September of 2021 as a misdemeanor. He never was booked or served any jail time. The case was dropped in court as well. He has never been in trouble before or after this event. He's been here almost 12 years as permanent resident. He wants to become a citizen finally but we're worried if this will affect him. 

 

Thank you in advance. 

[OldUser 9,951]

He didn't have jail time, but was he found guilty?

 

Regardless, he'd have to disclose this when he applies for N-400.

 

I'd apply no earlier than 5 year anniversary of this case being "dropped".

The reason is because of Good Moral Character requirement. They look at things that occurred within the last 5 years.

[Crazy Cat 44,511]

12 years as a Green Card holder?  He waited a long time to apply for citizenship.

[Fr8dog 417]

You stated the case was dropped so I'm going with "not an issue" on that part of the question. (Assuming that that is the only thing he has).

 

The moral character is two fold.

- Did the commit any crimes (meaning convictions) that are disqualifying

- And (maybe even more important to the USCIS) did the applicant try to cover up or lie about anything that might be viewed as inappropriate.

 

So the fact that he doesn't have a conviction covers part 1 but you have to disclose it, including all available paperwork, during the application to cover part 2.

Check the instructions that come with the N400 it tells you what and when is needed.

 

(https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/n-400instr.pdf)

 

[Tracey&Greg 36]

6 hours ago, Crazy Cat said:

12 years as a Green Card holder?  He waited a long time to apply for citizenship.

Finally we have struggled off and on through the years. We reached to st it when we he can afford it. No more daycare fees, diapers, fomular. Kids are older and life is great now 😊