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CLE: Becoming American: A practical guide to naturalization and citizenship law

On Demand

Citizenship is more than a legal outcome. It’s security, stability, and belonging. This on-demand CLE gives immigration attorneys the clarity and confidence to guide clients through one of the most meaningful processes in U.S. law.

From naturalization eligibility to citizenship for children born abroad to federal court remedies, this course brings together doctrine, strategy, and real-world insight you can put to work right away.

This course is eligible for 1.0 CLE credit. Registrants can access the credit tab in the CE21 registration link to see if their state is listed.

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  • James Pittman
    By James Pittman
Stylized headshot of James Pittman

What you’ll learn at this webinar

  • Explain the three primary pathways to U.S. citizenship and when each applies

  • Analyze eligibility for naturalization under the five-year rule, three-year rule, and military provisions

  • Advise U.S. citizen parents on citizenship for children born abroad, including complex family scenarios

  • Distinguish between the acquisition and derivation of citizenship and apply the correct law based on timing

  • Choose the right documentation strategy using CRBAs, passports, and Certificates of Citizenship

  • Respond to delayed or denied naturalization cases using mandamus actions and de novo review

  • Identify risks tied to good moral character, prior immigration history, and inconsistent records

Citizenship law is getting harder. Your guidance matters more than ever.

Today’s path to U.S. citizenship is shaped by policy shifts, procedural delays, and heightened scrutiny. What used to be straightforward now demands deeper analysis, stronger documentation, and strategic advocacy.

This course helps you meet that moment. You’ll walk through the legal foundations of citizenship while learning how to spot issues early, avoid common pitfalls, and protect your clients' rights when the process stalls or goes sideways.

You already know the stakes. This CLE helps you navigate them with confidence.

From statutes to strategy

Knowing the law is only part of the job. Applying it to real families, real timelines, and real government delays is where practice gets complicated.

This session bridges that gap. You’ll explore how citizenship is acquired, derived, and documented, then go deeper into how those rules actually play out at USCIS, consulates, and in federal court.

Expect practical guidance, policy context, and examples drawn from real cases so you can move from theory to action faster.

Frequently asked questions

Is this CLE webinar available on demand?

Yes. This webinar is available on demand, so you can watch it at a time that works best for your schedule.

Is this program eligible for CLE credit?

Yes. This on-demand program qualifies for CLE credit. Credit eligibility and requirements may vary by jurisdiction, so be sure to review your state’s specific rules for on-demand CLEs.

Can I start and stop the webinar, or watch it in multiple sittings?

Yes. On-demand access allows you to pause, rewind, and return to the program as needed.

Who should watch this webinar?

This webinar is for immigration attorneys who handle naturalization, citizenship for children born abroad, or delayed and denied N 400 cases and want a clearer strategy and stronger confidence in citizenship law.

Does this course cover recent policy and litigation trends?

Yes. The course addresses current procedural challenges, policy shifts, and litigation strategies shaping citizenship practice today.

Do I need to complete anything to receive CLE credit?

Yes. You must watch the entire program to receive CLE credit. The webinar includes attendance prompts throughout to verify participation.

Citizenship cases don’t just change legal status. They change lives. This CLE gives you the tools, perspective, and confidence to guide clients through the process with clarity and care.

Watch on demand. Strengthen your practice. Advocate with certainty.

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Presenter
James Pittman

James PittmanAttorney, Co-founder of 8am DocketWise

James E. Pittman is a distinguished immigration attorney, co-founder of 8am DocketWise, and Director and Subject Matter Expert (SME) in immigration at 8am, a leading platform delivering purpose-built solutions for legal and accounting professionals. A former patent attorney, he later built a highly regarded U.S. immigration practice and is a sought-after CLE educator on immigration law and ethics. James is admitted in NY, NJ, before the USPTO, and hosts the DocketWise video podcast Immigration Uncovered.