Form N-400

Los Angeles Naturalization Lawyers – Form N-400 Assistance
Overview of Form N-400

Form N-400, officially titled “Application for Naturalization,” is the essential form for individuals seeking U.S. citizenship. Administered by USCIS, it serves as the formal request to become a naturalized citizen, providing personal information, verifying eligibility, and affirming commitment to U.S. principles and responsibilities.

Understanding Form N-400

Form N-400 collects detailed information in several sections:

  • Personal Information: Name, address, date of birth, marital status, and contact details.
  • Eligibility Questions: Residency, criminal history, and military service eligibility.
  • Residence and Employment History: Addresses and employment over the past five years.
  • Criminal History: Arrests, charges, convictions, and supporting documentation, if applicable.
  • Military Service: Branch, dates of service, and deployments, if relevant.
  • Declaration and Signature: Certification of accuracy, affirmation to take the Oath of Allegiance, and signature under penalty of perjury.
N-400 Application Process in 2025

The naturalization process generally involves these steps:

  • Filing Form N-400: Complete and submit the form with supporting documents and fees to USCIS.
  • Biometrics Appointment: Provide fingerprints, photographs, and signature for identity verification.
  • Naturalization Interview: Attend an interview to review your application, test English and civics knowledge, and assess eligibility.
  • Oath Ceremony: Upon approval, take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen.
Supporting Documents for N-400

Required documents may include:

  • Copy of Green Card (Form I-551) or Form I-90 receipt.
  • Evidence of good moral character.
  • Tax transcripts or returns for 3-5 years.
  • Marriage certificate or divorce decree, if applicable.
  • Evidence of continuous residence and physical presence.
  • Other documents related to eligibility, such as military records or court dispositions.
N-400 Processing Time
  • Processing typically takes 8–12 months as of March 2025.
  • Timeframes vary based on USCIS office, individual circumstances, and caseloads.
  • Estimated processing times are available on the USCIS website.
Tips to Expedite N-400 Processing
  • Ensure your application is accurate and complete.
  • Respond promptly to USCIS requests for additional information.
  • Work with an immigration attorney to properly prepare your application and supporting documents.
  • Explore expedited processing options in urgent cases with compelling reasons.
Benefits of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer for Form N-400
  • Expert Guidance: Assistance throughout the N-400 process to avoid errors and omissions.
  • Handling Complex Cases: Support for applicants with criminal history, prior immigration issues, or other complications.
  • Maximizing Success: Proactive review and strengthening of applications to increase approval chances.
  • Peace of Mind: Professional guidance reduces stress and ensures all steps are followed correctly.
  • Responding to Issues: Assistance with Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or denials.
  • Customized Advice: Tailored strategies for each applicant’s unique circumstances.

Call us today at 323-805-0445 to schedule a consultation and ensure your naturalization process proceeds smoothly.

Form N-400 Frequently Asked Questions
  • What do I need to bring to my naturalization interview? Bring your Green Card, state ID, passport (even if expired), and any re-entry permits. Additional documents may be requested by USCIS.
  • Can I file Form N-400 without a Green Card? No. You must have an unexpired Green Card or Form I-90 receipt to demonstrate permanent residency eligibility.
Employment Visas

Social

Contact Me:

Practice Areas:

  • Immigration Law
  • Affirmative and Defensive Asylum
  • Employment Immigration
  • Cancelation of Removal
  • Credible Fear Inerview

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida
  • Miami – 2020
  • Honors: Dean’s List
Universidad Francisco Gavidia, San Salvador
  • B.S. – 2008
  • Major: Engineering

Representative Clients

  • Hispanic

Current Employment Position

  • Senior Partner

Mariano F. Herrera

Mariano Herrera is a passionate and dedicated United States Immigration Attorney originally from El Salvador, Central America. His personal journey as an immigrant to the United States inspired him to pursue a career devoted to helping others navigate the complex path of immigration law. After earning his Juris Doctor from Florida International University (FIU) College of Law and passing the bar exam, Mariano began his practice as an immigration attorney with an unwavering commitment to advocacy and justice. Drawing on his own immigrant experience, Mariano deeply understands the hopes and challenges faced by those seeking a new life in America. He brings empathy, precision, and determination to every case, representing clients before the Immigration Courts and USCIS. His mission is simple yet profound — to help as many immigrants as possible realize their American dream. Mariano’s legal expertise covers a wide range of immigration matters, including business and employment immigration, family-based petitions, asylum, deportation defense, and naturalization. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and steadfast dedication, he ensures that each client receives personalized guidance and strong representation. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Mariano effectively serves a diverse community of clients from around the world. Beyond his legal practice, Mariano is actively engaged in community outreach and education. He regularly leads workshops and seminars to inform immigrants about their rights and legal options, and partners with nonprofit organizations to provide pro bono legal services to those in need. Outside the office, Mariano enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures, and discovering new cuisines — experiences that broaden his worldview and deepen his empathy for clients from all backgrounds. A passionate reader and keen follower of global affairs, he continually enriches his knowledge of immigration trends and international issues. Mariano Herrera’s journey from El Salvador to the United States, combined with his compassion and professional excellence, has made him a trusted advocate and a respected figure in the field of immigration law.

Past Positions

  • Brandis and Associates, Associate Attorney, Feb. 2022 – July 2022

Professional Associations

  • State Bar of Wisconsin, Member, 2020
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member, 2022 – 2023

Bar Admissions

  • El Salvador, 2003
  • Wisconsin, 2020
  • U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit
  • U.S. Immigration Court

Contact Me:

Practice Areas:

  • Immigration Law
  • Business Immigration
  • Employment Immigration
  • Family Based Immigration
  • Non-Immigrant Visas

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida

  • LL.M – 2020
  • Honors: Dean’s List

Bowling Greend State University, Bowling Green, Ohio

  • M.A.
  • Honors: Dean’s List

Representative Clients

  • Caribbean

Current Employment Position

  • Partner

Juliette A. Potter

Juliette Potter is a highly accomplished United States Immigration Attorney with over two decades of legal experience. She began her legal journey as a Barrister in the United Kingdom and was later admitted as an Attorney-at-Law in Antigua and Barbuda before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

Ms. Potter’s academic background is equally distinguished. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Florida International University College of Law, a Bachelor of Laws (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, and a Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica. She also earned a Master’s degree in Organization Development from Bowling Green State University’s College of Business in Ohio.

Her professional experience spans both the corporate and legal worlds. Before entering private immigration practice, she served as Chief Legal Officer for an international group of companies. Today, she is a Licensed Attorney in the State of New York, representing clients before the Federal Immigration Courts of the United States, while also maintaining her active law license in Antigua and Barbuda.

As an immigrant herself, Ms. Potter brings a unique perspective and deep empathy to her practice. Her personal experiences inspire her unwavering commitment to helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law with confidence and care.

Outside the courtroom, Ms. Potter enjoys cooking, traveling, and exploring new cuisines — passions that reflect her appreciation for diversity and global cultures, both in life and in law.

Past Positions

  • The Fairweather Group, Chief Legal Officer, 2012 to 2018
  • Elite Island Holding Company Ltd., Legal Counsel, 2005 to 2012

Professional Associations

  • New York State Bar Association, Member, 2022
  • Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association, Member, 2005
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member, 2023 – 2024

Bar Admissions

  • England and Wales, 2003
  • Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, 2005
  • New York, 2023