past record...will i have immigration problems?

[lucyliu9]

About 13 years ago, I was caught for shoplifting and went to court and was either dismissed or discharged. I had to do some community service also. I am Canadian and will be marrying an American. Will i have problems with immigration? Will they see this record? What are the procedures for immigration? Is there an interview process and will we be interviewed separately. Basically, i want to know if my husband will find out about this.

 

[Tracey]

A 13 year old misdemeanor conviction will probably not keep you out of the country. INS is much more interested in whether you've ever been a drug dealer, prostitue, or pimp. (It's true!) However, DO NOT lie about it!!! Go to the law courts & pull your file. Check to see if you got a real dismissal, deferred prosecution, or a conviction that only resulted in community service. You can get a good book on imigration from Nolo Press -- www.nolo.com. It should answer most of your questions, plus the questions you'll think up tomorrow.



------------------
This is not legal advice and you are not my client. Double check everything with your own attorney and your state's laws.