Office Location is Irving, Texas and Albuquerque, New Mexico
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Office Location is Irving, Texas and Albuquerque, New Mexico
At John W. Lawit, LLC, our Albuquerque DACA immigration lawyers are here to help you overcome legal challenges, understand your rights, and stay protected under the law. Whether you’re applying for DACA for the first time, facing renewal delays, or dealing with complications such as prior immigration violations or criminal history, our team brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to immigrant communities.
Navigating life in the United States as a Dreamer comes with hope and uncertainty, especially when it comes to protecting your legal status. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides temporary protection from deportation and access to work authorization, helping thousands of undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children build secure and stable lives.
However, the application and renewal process can be legally complex, especially in a constantly evolving immigration landscape. To address this, we deliver tailored legal strategies backed by compassion, knowledge, and a proven track record in immigration law.
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program was established in 2012 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to protect eligible undocumented immigrants who entered the country as children. DACA provides two key forms of relief: protection from deportation and a renewable two-year work permit.
While it does not provide a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship, DACA can be life-changing for recipients by giving them legal status to work, study, and live without fear of removal.
To qualify for DACA in Albuquerque or anywhere in the U.S., applicants must meet the following criteria:
DACA recipients gain important protections that allow them to live more securely in the United States. These include:
Meeting the basic requirements is only the beginning. Many applicants face complications related to incomplete records, prior immigration actions, or documentation gaps. Working with an experienced Albuquerque DACA immigration lawyer can ensure your application is complete, accurate, and prepared to withstand scrutiny by immigration authorities.
Our immigration lawyers in Albuquerque will help you determine eligibility, gather the necessary documents, and avoid common pitfalls that may delay or jeopardize your case.
Applying for DACA for the first time requires detailed preparation and strong evidence. You must show proof of your identity, date of U.S. entry, physical presence on June 15, 2012, continuous residence since June 15, 2007, and educational or military qualifications.
Accepted documents include school transcripts, financial records, birth certificates, passports, and other official paperwork. Even a minor error or missing detail could result in delays or denial.
Many first-time applicants mistakenly assume the process is straightforward. Unfortunately, even small errors such as missing records or incomplete forms can result in rejection.
Others fail to meet strict eligibility requirements or do not include sufficient proof of presence and residence. A qualified Albuquerque DACA immigration lawyer can:
By working with John W. Lawit, LLC, you gain a legal team that understands the nuances of DACA law and is committed to helping you achieve the protection you deserve.
DACA recipients must renew their status every two years to maintain deportation protection and work authorization. USCIS recommends filing your renewal application between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA expires to avoid gaps in protection.
The renewal process requires:
Although you don’t have to resubmit all the original evidence used in your initial application, you must still prove you’ve maintained eligibility, stayed in the U.S., and avoided disqualifying criminal activity or immigration violations.
Failing to renew on time can result in the expiration of your DACA status, leading to a lapse in work authorization and renewed exposure to deportation proceedings. Additionally, even timely renewals may be denied if USCIS finds:
Delays in mail delivery, incomplete forms, or missing signatures can cause setbacks. Once your DACA status lapses, you may not be able to work legally, renew your driver’s license, or access certain benefits, making renewal a time-sensitive and critical legal matter.
Renewing DACA may seem simpler than the initial application, but evolving USCIS policies and increased scrutiny make legal guidance just as important. An experienced Albuquerque DACA renewal attorney can:
At John W. Lawit, LLC, we work proactively to ensure your DACA protections remain uninterrupted. Our team stays on top of legal updates and USCIS trends so you don’t have to. Let us help you stay protected and focused on your future.
If you’ve had previous immigration issues, such as overstaying a visa, entering without inspection, or being subject to removal proceedings, your DACA application may face additional scrutiny. While DACA is available to certain undocumented individuals, prior immigration history can complicate the process.
An experienced Albuquerque DACA immigration attorney can help assess your background and prepare a strategy to strengthen your application.
Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you from DACA, but certain offenses, like felonies, significant misdemeanors, or multiple non-significant misdemeanors, may make you ineligible. Each case is reviewed individually, and it’s important to provide context and documentation when possible.
A qualified immigration lawyer can help you understand which offenses may be excusable and whether any post-conviction relief options could help your case. For general guidance on disqualifying crimes, the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) offers helpful summaries and legal references.
If you’re now over the age limit for DACA, have a criminal record, or no longer meet eligibility requirements, you may still have other immigration options available. Depending on your circumstances, you might qualify for other forms of relief such as Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), asylum, or family-based adjustment of status.
A knowledgeable immigration attorney can evaluate alternative pathways based on your history and goals. Even if DACA is no longer viable, you may still have opportunities to remain lawfully in the U.S.
At John W. Lawit, LLC, our firm has dedicated over 40 years to immigration law. Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience in helping immigrants navigate complex legal systems, including first-time DACA applications, renewals, and post-DACA options.
With deep knowledge of immigration policy and an unwavering commitment to client advocacy, we are well-equipped to handle even the most nuanced DACA cases.
We recognize that no two DACA cases are alike. Whether you’re renewing for the third time or applying after a gap in status, we assess your situation thoroughly and provide clear, actionable advice. Our lawyers offer customized legal strategies that reflect your goals, address potential risks, and minimize delays or denials.
Our firm understands the anxiety and uncertainty surrounding immigration matters. That’s why we prioritize clear communication and compassionate service.
From preparing documents to attending interviews, we walk with you at every step. Our bilingual staff ensures language is never a barrier in getting the help you deserve.
In addition to DACA, we assist clients with a wide range of immigration matters, including:
Having an attorney familiar with multiple immigration pathways ensures that if DACA is not a viable solution, other options can be explored quickly and effectively.
Currently, USCIS is not processing initial DACA requests due to court orders. However, you may still file, and it will be held. An Albuquerque DACA lawyer can help you explore this and other immigration options.
Renew your DACA between 120–150 days before it expires to avoid gaps in protection. Timely filing with legal support helps reduce the risk of delays or denial.
Denials can lead to loss of protection and work authorization. A lawyer can review the denial and guide you on options like reapplying or pursuing other legal relief.
DACA is not a direct path to permanent residency or citizenship, but some recipients may qualify for a green card through marriage, family, or humanitarian programs.
Only with approved advance parole. You must apply and receive permission before traveling abroad. Traveling without it may result in losing DACA status.
Timely and experienced legal guidance can make all the difference in protecting your future. At John W. Lawit, LLC, our Albuquerque DACA renewal lawyers are committed to helping you navigate the renewal process with precision and care.
We offer strategic support to help you avoid delays, respond to challenges, and remain in compliance with immigration laws.
If you’re looking for knowledgeable and compassionate guidance, our experienced Albuquerque immigration lawyers are here to help. Contact us today at (214) 609-2242 to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward securing your DACA status with trusted legal counsel.
