Pursue U.S. Citizenship With an Experienced Attorney by Your Side
Personalized Guidance From Application Through the Interview
Applying for citizenship involves more than completing Form N-400. Now, more than ever, your immigration history, travel, taxes, and other circumstances may affect your eligibility and the questions you face at your interview.
Lear Immigration Law, PC helps clients identify potential risks, prepare accurate and well-supported applications, respond to issues that arise, and prepare for the USCIS interview and civics test.
Meet with an immigration attorney in person at our Westminster office or by Zoom
Prefer to speak with our team? Call 303-578-9083
Immigrant-Led Law Firm
Personal understanding of the immigration journey and the importance of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Direct Attorney Access
Work directly with your immigration, supported by our experienced legal team.
Personalized Preparation
Naturalization preparation tailored to your eligibility, immigration history, and unique circumstances.
Support Throughout
An attorney in your corner—from preparing your application to attending your USCIS interview with you.
Citizenship Matters We Handle
Citizenship can be obtained through different legal paths. The correct process depends on the applicant's immigration history, family circumstances, residence, and other facts.
Naturalization After Five Years as a Permanent Resident
Many green card holders can apply for naturalization based on five years of permanent residence. Eligibility also depends on time spent living in and physically present in the United States, good moral character, English and civics requirements, and other factors.
Naturalization Through Marriage to a U.S. Citizen
Some green card holders may qualify under a three-year provision if they have been married to and living with a U.S. citizen spouse. However, marriage alone is not enough: the applicant must meet the other naturalization requirements and provide evidence of the qualifying marriage and shared life.
Citizenship Through a Parent
Some people born outside the United States became citizens at birth or automatically acquired citizenship through a U.S. citizen parent before turning 18. The answer depends on the law in effect at the relevant time and facts such as the parent's citizenship and U.S. residence, and the child's age, residence, and custody.
Application for Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600) is generally used to document citizenship already acquired through a parent. It is different from Form N-400, which is used to apply for naturalization.
Pending, Complicated, or Previously Denied Cases
You can seek legal guidance even if you have already filed.
We assist with:
• Pending or previously denied Form N-400s
• Requests for Evidence or other USCIS notices
• Questions about information submitted in an earlier immigration application
• Upcoming naturalization interviews
• Naturalization applications that have been pending longer than expected
• Questions about whether you may already be a U.S. citizen through a parent
We do more than fill out forms. We assess your eligibility, identify potential concerns, and provide individualized legal advice and attorney representation.
DISCUSS MY NATURALIZATION CASE
A consultation can help identify which path you best qualify for.
Is It the Right Time to Apply?
Naturalization eligibility depends on the several criteria.
Having held a green card for three or five years does not, by itself, mean you are ready to file.
Depending on your path to citizenship, USCIS may review:
• Your age and time as a lawful permanent resident
• Where you have lived and how much time you have spent outside the United States
• Whether you meet the applicable state or USCIS district residence requirement
• Your good moral character, including any criminal history and tax concerns
• Your English and civics qualifications, including whether an exception applies
• Your eligibility to take the Oath of Allegiance
Your earlier immigration filings may also raise questions during the naturalization process. We carefully review your history before filing so you can understand potential concerns, gather relevant records, and decide when to apply.
When Careful Review Is Especially Important
USCIS reviews more than the information entered on the current Form N-400.
The naturalization process can involve examination of the applicant's immigration history and conduct before and after becoming a permanent resident.
Detailed review may be especially important when a case involves:
• Trips outside the United States lasting six months or longer
• Frequent international travel
• Arrests, criminal charges, citations, or convictions
• Probation, parole, or a suspended sentence
• Unfiled tax returns, unpaid taxes, or a payment arrangement with IRS
• Un paid child-support or alimony
• Selective Service registration questions
• A previous claim to U.S. citizenship or history of voting in U.S. federal or state elections
• Inconsistent information in earlier immigration filings
• Questions about how permanent residence was obtained
• A prior naturalization denial
• Possible fraud or misrepresentation concerns
Having one of these concerns does not necessarily mean you cannot become a U.S. citizen. Some concerns can be addressed with additional evidence or explanation, while others may affect eligibility or have broader immigration consequences. It all depends on each applicant's individual circumstances.
Meeting with an attorney can help identify these concerns before an application is submitted or an applicant attends a USCIS interview.
Prepare for Your Interview With Confidence
Naturalization interviews can feel intimidating, but you don't have to approach yours unprepared or alone.
Individualized Interview Preparation
During your naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will review your application and immigration history, and most applicants must also complete the English and civics tests.
We help you:
✓ Review your Form N-400 and supporting documents
✓ Identify information that may need clarification
✓ Prepare updated or additional records
✓ Discuss questions that may arise about your history
✓ Understand the interview and testing process
✓ Practice answering questions clearly and truthfully
Preparation is not about memorizing answers. It is about understanding your application, anticipating important questions, and arriving ready to respond accurately.
An Attorney at Your Side
As part of our representation, an experienced attorney from our firm attends the USCIS interview with you. Although you must answer the officer's questions and complete any required testing yourself, your attorney will be there to provide support and address legal or procedural issues that may arise. Having a knowledgeable legal advocate present can offer significant peace of mind and help you feel more confident and prepared throughout this important process.
Discuss your interview concerns with an immigration attorney and prepare with greater confidence.
How Our Representation Works
1. Attorney Consultation
Meet with an immigration attorney to discuss your eligibility, immigration history, and any specific concerns. The attorney will explain possible paths and identify issues that need closer review.
2. Case Plan and Document Collection
Once we start working together, we develop a plan for your case and provide you with a clear list of the information and documents we need to prepare a strong case.
3. Eligibility and Process Review
We carefully review your immigration records and other relevant documents to assess eligibility, identify potential concerns, and determine how best to present your case to USCIS based on your individual circumstances.
4. Application Preparation and Filing
Our team prepares the forms and organizes your supporting evidence. Before filing, we review the application and documents for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with the legal requirements. We work with you to address missing information or questions.
5. Case Monitoring After Filing
We track government notices and deadlines and help respond to requests for additional evidence when that work is included in your representation.
6. Interview Preparation and Attendance
When USCIS schedules an interview, we prepare you for the questions and documents that may come up, and an attorney from our firm attends with you.
If USCIS approves the application, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance. A person does not become a U.S. citizen until the oath has been completed, unless an exception applies.
Why Clients Choose Lear Immigration Law
An Attorney Who Understands the Immigration Journey
Attorney Anya Lear's connection to immigration law is personal. Born and raised in Moscow, she came to the United States for college and later navigated her own path through the immigration system to U.S. citizenship.
That experience informs the firm's approach: listen carefully, communicate clearly, prepare diligently, and treat every client and family with respect.
Anya has practiced law in Colorado since 2012 and is fluent in English and Russian. Clients work directly with the attorney responsible for their case, supported by an experienced team committed to careful preparation and consistent communication.
Immigration, Made Understandable
We explain your options in plain language, give you practical instructions, and make sure you understand what comes next for every step of the journey.
Compassion in Every Step
You aren't a transaction. Our clients consistently tell us that they felt seen, heard, and supported from the initial consultation all the way through to their final interview.
Integrity-Driven Strategy
We build trust through honesty. We give you a candid assessment of potential issues, explain our fees and scope of work, and tailor our strategy to your unique circumstances rather than a "standard process."
Confidence at Your Interview
An experienced attorney from our firm prepares you for the USCIS interview, organize updated and relevant evidence, and stands beside you at your USCIS interview.
Client Testimonials
Don't Just Take It From Us, Here's What our Clients Have to Say
Alma Ismagulova
Before choosing Anna, I researched and received paid and free consultations from other companies and lawyers (I've also encountered scammers). I was choosing between three. During an hour-long consultation with Anna, she identified the most significant issue. We began gathering the necessary documents, with recommendations and corrections. I had access to electronic templates, phone calls, video calls, and text messages. She was completely accessible. And, what's more, she provided expert assistance. My case has been submitted, biometrics have been completed, and I'm waiting 150-180 days for my work permit. More to come! Thank you to Anna's entire team!
Young Hyun Chi
Anya and her team are professional, meticulous, attentive, and kind in what can be a pretty anxious and detail-oriented process. I was able to smoothly and rapidly secure a permanent residency thanks to this firm's good work after marrying my American wife while in Korea, about half a year after moving to Colorado. They are willing to attend interviews and other processes in person, and their office was always open for in-person work when I was required to do something or ask about something.
It's not an easy thing to willingly delegate a process that impacts your life so, but I highly recommend Lear Immigration Law if you want it done correctly.
Josue Godinez
I had an amazing experience with attorney Anya Lear of Lear Immigration Law. Even though I only speak Spanish, she took the time to explain everything to me patiently and made sure I understood every step. She is kind, understanding, and truly cares about her clients. Thanks to her, my case was resolved quickly and smoothly. She made a difficult process much easier and less stressful. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone who needs a good lawyer. Thank you so much, Anya!
Brad Gersch
This team has been fantastic in helping us navigate the complex immigration process. They flawlessly handled our massive amount of paperwork and were always quick to answer our sudden, news-related questions. As a bonus, their beautifully designed office provides a truly calming environment. Highly recommended for their excellent service, efficient processes, and wonderful staff!
Anna Valsami
Anya and her team were recommended to me by a family friend and I'm really glad I got in touch with them! I was ready to apply for my US citizenship and I wanted to make sure everything was done correctly. Anya was incredibly professional, thorough and caring from start to finish and I felt confident that she was on top of my case every step of the way. Overall, it was a seamless experience! Highly recommended to anyone needing assistance in their own immigration journey. Thank you Anya and team!
Yana Miloserdova
Thanks to Anya and her amazing team! Due to their professionalism, my Green Card application was processed remarkably quickly. We felt well supported throughout the entire process. The team was always available to address my questions and communicated with us from the beginning to the end of the process.
I highly recommend Lear Immigration Law and definitely plan to use their services again in the future for any of my immigration needs!
New more proof? Check out our other online reviews.
Here are some cases we are proud to share more about.
*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Take the Next Step With a Clearer Understanding of Your Citizenship Options
Before filing a naturalization or citizenship application, understand the applicable requirements and any concerns that may affect the case.
Schedule a paid consultation to discuss your circumstances with an immigration attorney.
Paid attorney consultation • In-person or Zoom
Or call 303-578-9083 during business hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can a permanent resident apply for naturalization?
Many applicants qualify under the general five-year provision. Some applicants who are married to and living in marital union with a U.S. citizen may qualify under a three-year provision.
Different requirements apply to each category. Time as a permanent resident is only one part of the eligibility analysis.
Can international travel affect naturalization?
Yes. USCIS considers both continuous residence and the amount of time the applicant was physically present in the United States.
A lengthy absence—or a pattern of frequent travel—may affect eligibility. Applicants should accurately review their complete travel history before filing.
What if I have been arrested or convicted?
Form N-400 requires disclosure of a broad range of criminal and law-enforcement history, including certain matters that were dismissed, expunged, or occurred many years ago.
The effect of an incident depends on the complete record and applicable law. Obtain legal advice before applying rather than assuming that an old or dismissed matter is irrelevant.
Are there exceptions to the English or civics requirements?
Certain applicants qualify for an exception from the English requirement based on their age and time as a permanent resident. The civics test may still be required in the applicant's chosen language.
A qualifying disability or impairment may support a medical exception request. Eligibility for an exception should be evaluated individually.
Could I already be a U.S. citizen through a parent?
Possibly. A person born outside the United States may have acquired citizenship at birth or derived citizenship after birth through a U.S. citizen parent.
The answer may depend on the law in effect at the relevant time, the parent's physical presence, the child's age and residence, custody, and other facts.
What can we discuss during a consultation?
A consultation can address a possible new application, citizenship through a parent, international travel, criminal history, taxes, a pending case, an upcoming interview, a USCIS notice, or a previous denial.
The attorney will provide an individualized assessment based on the available information and explain possible next steps. A consultation does not guarantee that the firm will offer representation, but we aim to provide useful guidance during the meeting.
Questions Before Scheduling?
Ask our team about consultation fees, appointment availability, or whether a consultation with our firm is the appropriate next step.
Please note that legal questions and case-specific advice are addressed during a paid attorney consultation.
This page provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this page or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration eligibility and outcomes depend on the facts and law applicable to each case, and no result is guaranteed.