This CLE course provides practical instruction on U.S. citizenship and naturalization for attorneys and legal professionals representing immigrants. The program offers a comprehensive overview of the legal framework governing U.S. citizenship, with an emphasis on identifying eligibility, avoiding common pitfalls, and effectively guiding clients through each stage of the citizenship process.

Participants will begin by exploring the various pathways to U.S. citizenship, including acquisition and derivation of citizenship, and will learn who may qualify under these provisions. The series will cover eligibility requirements for naturalization, applicable exemptions and exceptions, and the factors that may positively or negatively affect a client's eligibility. Attendees will also learn how to conduct thorough eligibility screenings using practical checklists and issue-spotting techniques.

In addition, the program will provide step-by-step guidance on preparing and filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, including an overview of the naturalization process and expected case timelines from filing through the oath ceremony. Throughout the series, presenters will highlight common application errors, best practices for client counseling, and strategies for successfully navigating the U.S. citizenship process.

*This course qualifies as a Transitional course and can be taken by both Experienced and Newly Admitted attorneys in NY. For information about permissible formats for Newly Admitted attorneys, please click here.