Fort Worth, TX Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyer

Supportive Lawyer Helping Immigrants Attain Citizenship in Fort Worth, Texas

For many immigrants to the US, becoming a naturalized citizen is the last stop on a long journey. However, this process can be long and complicated, especially if you are not familiar with U.S. law. An immigration attorney in Tarrant County can help you follow the right steps and address potential bars to your citizenship.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we have years of experience assisting immigrants with various legal issues. Fluent in English and Spanish, Attorney Edwardo Meza believes in the importance of knowing your rights, and he will make sure that you are fully informed throughout the process of applying to become a U.S. citizen.

Who Can Become a Naturalized Citizen in the United States?

There is a thorough list of requirements to become a U.S. citizen, and most of them are non-negotiable. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we can review your eligibility for naturalization and help you work around certain requirements as needed. To qualify for citizenship, all applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident/green card holder for a minimum of five years
• Have resided in their current state or U.S. territory for the past three months
• Be able to speak and write in English with basic proficiency
• Know certain facts about U.S. history and the government
• Be committed to the ideals expressed in the U.S. Constitution
• Demonstrate good moral character

Additionally, you may be asked to provide proof of your tax returns for the last five years and proof of your enrollment in the Selective Service if you are male.

Some requirements can be waived or reduced. For instance, if you are a lawful permanent resident who lives with a U.S. citizen full-time, you can apply for citizenship after you have been married to that citizen for three years. Members of the U.S. military will also be considered eligible after one year of honorable service. If you have a learning disability that would affect your ability to take the civics or English tests, those requirements may be waived, or accommodations may be made for you.

Possible Bars to Citizenship

Obstacles to citizenship are referred to as "bars." A criminal conviction can seriously hurt your chances of becoming a naturalized citizen, as it will be considered a reflection of your moral character in the eyes of the government.

If you have been accused of a crime as a non-citizen, our crimmigration attorney can defend you in court to minimize the damage to your immigration status. Other habits, like gambling and substance abuse, may not be illegal, but they can still jeopardize your application.

Appeals

If your application for citizenship is rejected, you can appeal the decision and request a hearing. To file an appeal, you must submit Form N-336 within 30 days of your denial. This form is a formal petition that asserts that United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) made an error. After receiving your petition, USCIS will schedule a hearing within 180 days of your request for an appeal.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we can help you fill out Form N-336 and represent you in court. Attorney Edwardo Meza will collect evidence to support your case, arguing that a mistake was made in the rejection of your citizenship application.

Contact a Fort Worth, TX Citizenship Attorney Today

Attaining citizenship can be a monumental step forward in your life. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we are here to support you through this process, providing legal advice and representation to suit your needs. As a devoted advocate for the rights of immigrants, Attorney Edwardo Meza will do everything in his power to help you through your case. Call our offices at 817-732-6392 or contact us online for a consultation.