Any way to expedite replacement of naturalization certificate?

[beteltree 0]

I lost my naturalization certificate sometime back. Been a citizen since 1986. Tried a few times to replace my papers but every time it was as if my application disappeared into a black hole. I had no patience to deal with the lovely civil servants at INS and was often too busy to spend hours and days in lines.

Anyhoo, the problem now is I need to apply for a passport to leave the country this fall. Is there any way to expedite the process? I still have a photocopy of my original certificate (as well as the receipt for the fee I paid for the last replacement application). Would hiring an immigration lawyer help? At this point, I'd rather pay a lawyer than hold off on my travels.

Edited April 8, 2008 by beteltree

[Zee Bee 61]

You can pay extra to get the passport faster: http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/f.../first_831.html

I don't think an immigration lawyer can get one for you faster.

[beteltree 0]

You can pay extra to get the passport faster: http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/f.../first_831.html

I don't think an immigration lawyer can get one for you faster.

[beteltree 0]

You can pay extra to get the passport faster: http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/f.../first_831.html

I don't think an immigration lawyer can get one for you faster.

It's true that I can pay extra to expedite my passport. However, my problem right now is to get the proof of citizenship to meet the requirement for any kind of passport in the first place. Filing a Freedom of Information Act request has been suggested. Appealing for help from the office of my local congressman was also suggested. As I have little time (though thankfully a bit more funds than before), I'm just hoping know of any way to get that proof of citizenship as fast as possible. thanks again for any suggestion or sharing of your experience.