What should I do- AOS or CP due to my situation

[besibhai]

I have just filed for I140 at California. I have to choose b/w AOS or CP. I am in a peculiar situation and need advice. 3 years back I was arrested and put on probabtion for soliciting a prostitute. It was a sting operation.
I have since then been discharged etc after successfully complting my probation. This is the only bad record that I have. In thsi situationw hat would be advisabel for me...AOS or CP? in the embassythey ask 'whether you have benn arrested or convicted...what should I say?
Is there any way for the consulate to know about this record.

I still have not discussed this with my lawyer but plan to pretty soon.

Please advise ASAP

[kw177]

What should I do- AOS or CP due to my situation

AOS.

You should not lie about the incident. Be Honest with the INS (they will find out during the background check anyway so tell them first).

If the INS call you for an interview you (and they almost certainly will) can take your lawyer and let him do the talking. You can't do that with CP.

Also find out from your lawyer if this will make you ineligible to immigrate before filing anything.

[suomilainen]

Stay here in the U.S. and file an I-485!

Lots of people have small offenses in their past. Don't be scared to discuss it with your lawyer. They're like doctors...you can tell them anything, and they're not allowed to tell your company or even your wife, if you have one. The lawyer will want to see your court records and proof that you've paid all due punishments for offense. These documents can be sent in right along with your I-485 application.

Later, if you're called for an interview, your lawyer will come with you. That's better than being stuck at a consulate overseas and alone!