Anaheim DACA Lawyer

Anaheim, home to a thriving immigrant population, has many residents who came to the United States as minors. These individuals consider America to be the only home they’ve truly ever known. Those noncitizens and their families may qualify for protections under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). If you or a loved one needs assistance with their DACA renewal or guidance on eligibility, an Anaheim DACA lawyer from U.S. Law Center can represent their interests. An experienced immigration lawyer can also provide guidance on other immigration matters.

What Is DACA?

Since it was announced on June 15th, 2012, DACA has facilitated help for thousands of young immigrants, also known as “Dreamers,” with building up their lives in the United States. DACA is a U.S. immigration policy that gives temporary protection to eligible individuals from being deported, along with work authorization. While it does not give a path to citizenship or lawful status, it is renewable every two years.

In Anaheim, DACA continues to be a key aspect of economic, educational, and community inclusion. The city boasts over 346,000 residents, has 13% of households living in poverty, and 10% of adults over the age of 25 without a diploma. This makes DACA an extremely important option for residents to maintain employment, pursue their education, and be free of constant fear that they’ll be deported.

Fluctuations in DACA Policy

DACA is highly politicized and constantly changing, making it difficult for Dreamers to navigate these processes. Due to a January 17th, 2025, decision made by the 5th Circuit Court, initial DACA requests are still being accepted, but they are not undergoing processing or approval.

Furthermore, Employment Authorization Documents that are linked to a valid DACA grant are still valid unless it has been terminated on an individual basis. Renewals are currently being processed within a timeframe of a few months. It is recommended that applicants file well before their status expires to avoid a lapse in legal protections.

Who Is Eligible for DACA?

A dedicated attorney from our firm can determine whether you are eligible for DACA. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be younger than 31 as of June 15th, 2012
• Arrived in the U.S. before turning 16
• Demonstrated continuous residence in the United States since June 15th, 2007
• Have been physically present in the country on June 15th, 2012, and on the day they filed
• Did not have any lawful status on June 15th, 2012
• Have no significant misdemeanor or felony convictions
• Have no more than three minor misdemeanors
• Be currently in school, graduated from high school or a GED program, or an honorably discharged veteran

Common Legal Issues an Anaheim DACA Lawyer Can Help With

Whether you need assistance with applying for the first time or navigating a DACA renewal, a dedicated attorney from U.S. Law Center can assist you. If you have received a request for evidence, we can help you respond promptly, giving USCIS all the information it needs for your application to proceed. Furthermore, we can make sure your application is filled out accurately and completely the first time, avoiding unnecessary delays.

If you are concerned about eligibility or have a past criminal record, we can explore your legal options to overcome this. We can also assess your eligibility to travel abroad and work. If you can, our team can get the documents you need to provide for yourself and your family.

Furthermore, our knowledgeable law firm in Anaheim is actively monitoring policy and litigation changes that impact the DACA program. We can keep you updated on any emerging opportunities for processing or relief.

FAQs About Anaheim, CA DACA Laws

Can I Still Apply for DACA for the First Time in 2025?

Yes, you can still apply for DACA for the first time in 2025, as applications are being accepted. However, USCIS is currently prohibited from processing initial DACA requests or approving anything because of court orders. Submitting now may be an option to prepare you for future approval in case there is a law or policy change.

Can I Work While My DACA Is Pending?

Yes, you can still work while your DACA application is pending if your previous documentation and work authorization are still valid. Unfortunately, if your DACA has expired before your renewal has been approved, you will lose authorization to work legally in the United States until your status has been approved again.

What Happens If My DACA Expires Before I Renew?

If your DACA expires before renewal, you may be facing a lapse in protection from removal and a loss of work authorization. During this time, you may still be eligible to file for renewal, however. It is recommended that you file for renewal well before the expiration. That way, you can avoid this crucial gap in legal protections.

What Should I Do If My Renewal Is Denied?

If your DACA renewal has been denied, you should work with an experienced immigration attorney. They can explore other options for immigration relief, or they could request a service review for any administrative errors in your process. In some situations, an appeal may also be a viable option to secure your legal status.

Does DACA Lead to a Green Card or Citizenship?

No, DACA is not a robust pathway to getting a green card or U.S. citizenship. It’s important to note, however, that some DACA recipients may be eligible to apply for an adjustment of status through employment or family-based immigration pathways. A detail-oriented attorney can explore your options for a more permanent immigration status by reviewing your case’s details and eligibility for various programs.

Talk to an Anaheim DACA Lawyer Today

Immigration policy is rapidly evolving, and sudden court rulings can suddenly change everything. Therefore, it’s more important than ever to work with an empathetic and knowledgeable DACA attorney in Anaheim. Together, we can navigate the complex DACA process to secure your status, protect your job, and safeguard your right to live in this community that is your home. Contact us today so that we can help.