Records to gather before you see a lawyer
A printable from Citizenship With a Record. Fill it in by hand. Nothing you write is collected by this website.
Records to gather before you see a lawyer
For every arrest, citation or charge (anywhere, any age)
- Date, city and agency: ______________________
- Arrest report
- Charging papers
- Certified court disposition (how the case ended)
- Sentencing record
- Proof I finished jail, probation, classes, fines or restitution
- If no charges were filed: official letter saying so
- If sealed, expunged, vacated or pardoned: the court order
- If no record exists: certified letter from the court or police
Also bring
- My California record (from the state)
- My green card and any old immigration papers
- Proof of good things: work, school, community service, family care, taxes paid, support paid
- A list of my questions
Questions for the lawyer
- Does my record make me deportable?
- Does it block citizenship now, or after a certain date?
- Can any of my cases be fixed first?
Keep this sheet private. Do not write your A number or Social Security number on it.
From Citizenship With a Record. Facts checked October 21, 2026. Free information, not legal or medical advice.