DEPORTATION DEFENSE
Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
In 2012, then U.S. President Barack Obama signed into law the Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals Act, often referred to as DACA or the DREAM Act, that protects certain individuals who were brought into the United States illegally as children from immediate deportation.
Eligible individuals who can apply for protection under DACA include those who:
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Were under age 16 when they first arrived in the U.S.
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Were under age 31 when the law was enacted on June 2012
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Have lived in the U.S. since 2007
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Have not been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor
Once accepted, individuals are completely protected from deportation for 2 years and can legally obtain a job or attend college or university. According to the latest estimates, over 700,000 individuals have been accepted into the program to date.
What Is The Current Status Of DACA?
Many people who have been accepted into the program wonder whether they should be fearful of deportation amid U.S. President Trump's statements this past September about rescinding the program Obama put into place.
The answer is no. Those already accepted into the program do not have to worry.
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However, the administration is no longer accepting new applications — for now — while the revisions to the program are finalized. President Trump has given Congressional lawmakers a six-month window of time to take action before his administration makes any significant changes.
Questions Or Concerns? Reach Out To Our Immigration Lawyers.
Despite the uncertainty of the law, individuals with questions are encouraged to reach out to our team of attorneys who can help provide reliable answers about the program, its current status, and renewal.
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If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and need assistance petitioning for a family-based visa or green card, we can help. Our attorneys have over 15 years of combined experience, all with varying backgrounds and education, helping those in Berwyn, Illinois, and surrounding communities.