DHS decided to focus its enforcement resources on removing violent criminals, felons, and repeat offenders. DHS will defer removal of individuals who as of June 15, 2012:
1. Were under the age of 31;
2. Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday;
3. Have continuously resided in the US on June 15, 2007, up to the present time;
4. Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012;
5. Entered illegally before June 15, 2012, or overstayed their visa on June 15, 2012;
6. Are in school, graduated or have their GED certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the US Coast Guard or Military; and
7. Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Those qualifying will be given “a reprieve” for two years with a possibility to renew their status every two years. They will also be able to apply for a Work Permit and Driver’s License. Many including Spanish-speaking media and some in prominent positions have spoken against using lawyers for this benefit.
A good immigration attorney is able to perform the usual checks that infallibly reveal inaccuracies and omissions. They will understand the information laid on paper and the consequences flowing from it. They will make sure that your application does not leave you worse off than before applying. There is always a cost to things. When it comes to immigration benefits, whether there was a conviction or not, there still may be something that could disqualify you and an attorney can help define the true costs in ways that you have not thought of and could not have anyway.
There is always a difference between self-service (or cheap service) and paid-service: the latter is often cheaper than the former.
Aime M. Katambwe, Esq. is a local Immigration Attorney with WorldEsquire Law Firm. Visit our website www.worldesquire.com for more information.