Immigrationboards.com

Hi,

I need some help, please.

I have been living in the UK for the past 20 years, working legally and have papers to prove it.

4 years ago I have been arrested then charged by the CPS with a criminal offence and I have been trialed and of course, found not guilty - acquitted.

I would like to apply for the citizenship. Of course I will mention this aspect in my application at length and provide all relevant documents.

Question is, do I need an immigration solicitor to help me with this?
How would a solicitor help me, what would they do?

I do not need help with preparing the actual application. I can do that by myself without any issues, we did it for our friends and we were successful.

The question here is whether I need a solicitor, whether that is likely to improve my chances of getting the citizenship, as this process will likely prove costly.

I have ILR through the EU settlement scheme.

Thank you very much in advance for you help.

UKVI Caseworkers' Good Character Guidance, if you haven't looked at this already:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.u ... racter.pdf
It doesn't mention that caseworkers have to take actions or refuse if someone was found not guilty. I doubt they would review the original case and produce their own "verdict".

Question is, do I need an immigration solicitor to help me with this?

As such the application doesn't need a solicitor (it's not immigration anyway). Normally a solicitor fills in your application, for a fee of course. If your were found not guilty what is there to explain? Or is there anything else in your history that may cast doubt on your "good character"?

How would a solicitor help me, what would they do?

He'd fill in the form. There's no negotiation with UKVI, either you comply with the requirements or not.
Of course you are free to use one.

I would say that your solicitor would help you presenting your case in a convincing way in your supporting evidence. Many solicitors offer a free consultation session, why don't you book one and ask this question directly to get a flavour for what they would do?

This is only me guessing - but if you have been found not guilty, you could present yourself and your character, if you do any volunteering, attach all the relevant evidence and apply by yourself.