A great deal of buzz has occurred following the conviction of the defendant in the “bullying” case out of New Jersey that led to the “It Gets Better” campaign. Whether or not the punishment fits the crime, it appears that the defendant now faces the possibility of deportation.
It also appears that the defendant’s parents may have avoided their son’s added consequence of deportation due to his stupidity. You see, if your child is a lawful permanent resident, and you naturalize before your child becomes 18, then your child automatically gains citizenship. Although I do not know the defendant’s immigration case specifics, many other immigration attorneys have speculated about his parent’s naturalization eligibility.
If you are a permanent resident and are eligible for naturalization, please do not delay in naturalizing. It may make a world of difference to you and your children.