Los Angeles DACA Lawyer

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a critical protection that benefits people who came to the United States when they were underage. However, the conditions for application and renewal are complicated and constantly being changed by legislators. If you are navigating the complex process of applying for or renewing your DACA status, a dedicated Los Angeles DACA lawyer from U.S. Law Center is here to support your case and fight for optimal outcomes.

At U.S. Law Center, our team of experienced immigration lawyers believes that the United States is strong due to the diverse global community that makes up the country. Therefore, we are dedicated to fighting for individuals to secure their rightful legal status, whether it be through DACA or other means. We have decades of experience fighting for the legal status and rights of individuals in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Together, we can champion your case.

What Is DACA?

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program instituted by the Obama Administration in 2012. Through DACA, individuals who came to the U.S. as children, otherwise known as “Dreamers,” can receive certain temporary protections, including safeguards against removal or deportation. Under the program, DACA recipients could obtain work authorization, allowing them to meaningfully contribute to and engage with their communities.

In 2022, the DACA final rule was published that completely upended existing rules and regulations, leading to confusion and uncertainty for those who had been receiving protections under DACA. As the DACA program has gone through a myriad of changes due to ongoing state and federal legal battles, individuals in California have been impacted as well. On September 13, 2023, a federal judge in the Southern District of Texas ruled that DACA was unlawful.

Since that ruling, it’s not possible to process first-time applications for the program. However, renewal applications are still being processed. As the political and legal situation surrounding DACA is highly complex, it’s important to work with an experienced and empathetic lawyer. A skilled immigration lawyer from U.S. Law Center in Los Angeles can help you understand the rights and benefits you have under DACA while assisting you with the renewal process.

Applying for DACA Renewal in Los Angeles, CA

As of July 2024, DACA renewal applications are not being accepted for Dreamers who have had their status expired for over a year. However, they can still submit an application with USCIS. It will not, however, be processed until the agency receives new directives from court or legislative authorities.

To ensure that you are currently eligible for renewal, it is highly encouraged to apply for your renewal 120 to 150 days before your DACA expiration date. Currently, the application requirements for a DACA renewal application are extensive, including rigorous documentation and proof that you meet the requirements.

Required documentation includes:

• Proof of your immigration status
• Proof that you were in the United States on June 15, 2012
• Proof that you have continuously resided in the country since June 15^th, 2007
• Evidence of your current student status
• Other key requirements

An experienced DACA lawyer from U.S. Law Center can assist you with the renewal process, ensuring that your application is submitted correctly and on time.

Protect Your Rights With a Los Angeles Immigration Lawyer

Due to the uncertainty associated with the current situation, it is critical to ensure that your rights are protected under DACA and that you are accessing the benefits you are entitled to. Not only can a compassionate immigration lawyer from our firm assist you with the renewal process, but they can also help you explore different immigration avenues that may be more optimal for your situation.

FAQs About Los Angeles, CA DACA Laws

How Much Does a DACA Immigration Lawyer Cost in Los Angeles?

The cost of a DACA immigration lawyer is dependent on various factors, including the location of the law firm, the experience of the lawyer, and the complexity of your case. They may charge an hourly fee, a retainer fee to secure their services or a flat fee. It is critical to work with a lawyer who is upfront about their prices and payment formats. That way, you can plan your budget accordingly.

Can I Renew My DACA Without a Lawyer?

While it is possible to renew your Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status without the assistance of a lawyer, it is generally beneficial to have the legal support of an attorney. They can ensure that your application is adequately filled out and submitted. Furthermore, a lawyer can analyze the current legal situation related to DACA and inform you of how this may impact your application.

What Is the Current Legal Status of DACA?

As of July 2024, it is not possible for initial DACA requests to be granted. A court injunction issued by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas in July 2021 has effectively blocked fundamental parts of the DACA program. This injunction, which was affirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit and extended by the District Court in October 2022, also makes it impossible for work authorizations to be administered by USCIS.

What Can DACA Recipients Not Do?

DACA recipients are not able to have lawful permanent residence status or pursue the naturalization process for citizenship through the program. Furthermore, they may face challenges related to travel outside of the United States, and they are not eligible to receive federal financial aid for education. To understand your rights and benefits under DACA, it is critical to work with an experienced immigration lawyer.

Pursue the Benefits You Are Entitled to Under DACA

If you are struggling to understand your rights and benefits under DACA, you are not alone. The entire program and its related processes have been mired in court challenges, bureaucratic complexities, and political actions. Fortunately, a compassionate and knowledgeable immigration lawyer from U.S. Law Center can help you understand the current status of DACA and assist you with your renewal application. Contact us today to clarify your rights under DACA.