N-400 Denied for Good Moral Character
A good moral character denial should be reviewed by identifying the precise statutory bar, regulatory provision, conduct, time period, and factual finding USCIS relied upon. Not every adverse fact has the same legal consequence.
Request Review of a GMC DenialWhat Type of Good Moral Character Finding Did USCIS Make?
The first question is whether USCIS found a permanent statutory bar, a conditional statutory bar, or adverse conduct evaluated under the broader good moral character standard.
The relevant statutory period also matters. Conduct outside that period can sometimes be considered, but older conduct and conduct occurring during the statutory period do not necessarily have the same effect.
Facts That Frequently Appear in Naturalization Denials
Criminal Conduct
Convictions, arrests, probation, confinement and underlying conduct may require separate statutory analysis.
False Testimony
USCIS may examine whether a knowingly false oral statement was made under oath for the purpose of obtaining an immigration benefit.
Taxes
Unfiled returns, unpaid tax obligations, filing positions and compliance efforts can become relevant.
Unlawful Acts
Conduct not captured by a specific statutory bar may still be evaluated under the applicable GMC regulation.
Family Obligations
Child support, alimony and compliance with court-ordered support obligations can be examined.
Voting or Citizenship Claims
False claims to U.S. citizenship, registration and voting can create issues extending beyond ordinary GMC analysis.
Review the Specific GMC Issue
Good Moral Character Law
Was Your N-400 Denied for Good Moral Character?
The Messersmith Law Firm, P.A. represents applicants challenging difficult good moral character findings in naturalization and N-336 proceedings.
Request a Naturalization Case Review