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Citizenship Attorney in Jacksonville

Providing Legal Assistance for Immigration Matters Since 2006

The Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre takes pride in helping this country’s immigrants on their path to becoming U.S. citizens. Becoming a U.S. citizen can be an emotional and transformative experience. However, it can also be a complex and lengthy process. Individuals with any arrest and convictions should seek the advice of an immigration attorney before filing for any immigration benefit. Certain convictions could result in a loss of your legal permanent residence status and even lead to removal from the United States.

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What Sets Our Law Firm Apart?

  • An Attorney Who Understands the Immigrant Experience
  • Top Avvo Rating of 10.0 & Top-Rated by Previous Clients
  • Dedicated, Compassionate Legal Representation
  • We’ll Provide Prompt, Continuous Updates on Your Case


If you are in pursuit of U.S. citizenship, our Jacksonville-based citizenship attorney can act as your trusted guide throughout the process. You will have access to our firm to seek answers to your questions, ensure that your case is moving forward, and prevent any unnecessary delays or setbacks. We can take care of the paperwork and documentation and ensure that everything is handled within proper guidelines and time frames. When you need a qualified naturalization attorney in Florida, turn to our Jacksonville immigration lawyers at The Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre.

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Naturalization

Only Lawful Permanent Residents who have lived in the United States for the statutory period required are eligible to file for Naturalization.

Eligibility to Apply for Naturalization includes:


  • Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of filing the application;
  • Must be a lawful permanent resident;
  • Must have had continuous residence in the USA as a legal permanent resident for at least five years, or three if married to a United States Citizen;
  • Must have been physically present in the United States for 30 months (18 months if married to a U.S. citizen);
  • Must be of good moral character for the statutory period;
  • Have the ability to read, write, speak; and understand basic English;
  • Have knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of U.S. history and government; and
  • Support the U.S. Constitution and the U.S. government and take the oath of allegiance.
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Our Jacksonville Naturalization & Citizenship Services

How Our Jacksonville Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyer Can Help:


  • Naturalization Process: Naturalization Attorney Joanne Fakhre guides clients through the naturalization process, assisting with the necessary paperwork, interviews, and requirements to become a U.S. citizen.
  • Citizenship Applications: We help individuals complete and submit citizenship applications, ensuring accuracy and compliance with immigration laws.
  • Citizenship Test Preparation: Citizenship Attorney Joanne Fakhre provides comprehensive support for the citizenship test, including assistance with the civics and English language portions.
  • Derivative Citizenship:
  •  For eligible individuals, we explore derivative citizenship options, ensuring that family members can benefit from the citizenship status of qualifying relatives.

When Applying for Citizenship in the U.S

Before applying for citizenship, it's crucial to ensure there are no obstacles, such as criminal convictions, that could lead to denial or deportation. The naturalization process typically takes one to two years, but factors like USCIS workload, case complexity, criminal records, prior immigration violations, background checks, personal circumstances, and policy changes can influence the timeline. Delays in processing or incomplete documentation may extend the process. Each case is unique, so consulting with an experienced naturalization attorney can help navigate the process and ensure a smoother application.

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Reasons for a Denied Citizenship

Certain other factors that could present potential problems include:


  • Criminal Convictions
  • Having voted in a U.S. election
  • Abandoning your permanent residency by remaining outside of the United States for a long period of time
  • Failing to pay child support or taxes
  • Failing to register for selective service (men between 18 and 26 who are permanent residents).


It is very important to be sure none of these factors apply before submitting an application for naturalization.


Waivers & Exemptions

If you have a medical disability that makes you unable to learn English and study for the history and civics requirements, you may be eligible to file for a medical exception.

If you are 50 years old at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 20 years, or are 55 years or older at the time of filing for naturalization and lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years, you may be exempt from the English language requirement but still need to take the civics test. It is possible to take the civics test in your native language if your spoken English is poor.

If you are at least 65 years or older and have been permanent residents for at least 20 years at the time of filing for naturalization, you are only required to study 20 of the 100 civics questions.

How to Apply for Citizenship Through Naturalization

In order to become a U.S. Citizen you must ensure that you meet the requirements prior to applying. The following is a overview of how the application process consist of in order to become a U.S. Citizenship through naturalization:


  • Complete and fill the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
  • Provide a copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
  • Provide photographs - Similar to passport photographs.
  • Submit any filing fees - These fees can be for the application and biometric service fees.
  • Submit any evidence needed and supporting documentation for your N-400 file.
  • Sign and File the Form N-400.

Areas of practice

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VISAS

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LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENCE/GREEN CARD

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NONIMMIGRANT VISAS

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FAMILY BASED IMMIGRATION

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Client Testimonials : The Opinions that Matter Most

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre so popular?

    The Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre has garnered widespread popularity due to its dedication to providing exceptional legal services as an immigration attorney. As a leading immigration attorney, we pride ourselves on compassionate and strategic representation for individuals, families, and businesses navigating U.S. immigration law. Our popularity stems from Attorney Joanne M. Fakhre’s personal journey as an immigrant, offering a unique perspective in her role as an immigration attorney. Her firsthand experience allows her to empathize with clients, fostering trust and understanding. The Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre consistently delivers results-driven services, with our team working diligently to address the unique circumstances of each client. The reputation of the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre as a premier immigration attorney in Jacksonville is further enhanced by our unwavering commitment to client advocacy and success. Those seeking the best representation know that having a trusted immigration attorney is crucial; therefore, ready to take the next step? Contact us today and experience the difference with a trusted immigration attorney by your side.

  • What types of immigration services do you offer?

    At the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre, we offer a comprehensive range of immigration services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Whether you're an individual seeking family-based immigration services, a business in need of employment visas, or an individual facing deportation, our team is equipped to guide you through the process. We also assist with naturalization, green cards, and asylum cases. Our personalized approach ensures that every client receives tailored legal strategies aimed at achieving their unique immigration goals. Contact us today to see how we can help you on your immigration journey.

  • How does Attorney Joanne M. Fakhre's personal experience benefit her clients?

    Attorney Joanne M. Fakhre's personal journey as an immigrant significantly enhances her ability to serve her clients effectively. She has firsthand insight into the complexities and emotional challenges associated with the immigration process. This empathy and understanding translate into compassionate legal representation, where she not only addresses legal needs but also provides moral support. Her personal experience fuels her commitment to helping clients achieve their American dreams. Connect with our office today to leverage Attorney Fakhre's unique perspective for your immigration needs.

  • Why should I choose the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre for my immigration needs?

    Choosing the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre means choosing dedicated, client-focused legal representation. Our firm is deeply committed to delivering honest and results-driven services, ensuring that each client's unique circumstances are understood and addressed. Attorney Joanne M. Fakhre brings a personal touch to every case, fortified by her own immigrant experience. We keep up-to-date with immigration law developments to offer the best strategies for success. Reach out to our Jacksonville office today and let us guide you through your immigration journey with expertise and care.

  • How Long Does It Take To Become A U.S. Citizen?

    The timeframe to become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process can vary. On average, the citizenship process can take anywhere between a year or two to complete, however, there are many factors that can influence how quickly the naturalization and citizenship process goes, including how complex the case is, the workload of USCIS, and more:


    USCIS Processing Times: processing times can vary based on workload and other factors. Delays in USCIS processing can extend the overall timeline.


    Complexity of the Case: Circumstances involving a criminal record, prior immigration violations, or complex immigration history may require additional documentation or review, increasing the processing time.

    Background Checks: If there are issues or delays with the background check, it can impact the processing time.


    Personal Circumstances: Circumstances such as the completeness and accuracy of the application, response to requests for evidence (RFEs), scheduling of interviews, and availability of required documents, can influence the timeline.


    Changes in Immigration Policies: Changes in immigration policies, laws, or regulations can impact the length of the naturalization.

    Each case is unique, and the exact timeline can vary. Consulting with a knowledgeable naturalization attorney, can provide personalized guidance and help navigate the process efficiently.



Citizenship and naturalization in Jacksonville, FL