The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)  asserts that it continues to focus its enforcement resources on the removal of those who pose a danger to national security or a risk to public safety, including those convicted of crimes, especially violent criminals, felons, and repeat offenders.  DHS maintains it will continue to exercise prosecutorial discretion as appropriate to ensure that enforcement resources are not expended on low priority cases, such as individuals who came to the U.S. as children.  Individuals who demonstrate their eligibility as detailed below may request consideration of “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) for a period of 2 years, subject to renewal, and may also be eligible for employment authorization.

You may request consideration of deferred action under DACA if you:

1. Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;
2. Came to the U.S. before reaching your 16^th birthday;
3. Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, up to the present time;
4. Were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS;
5. Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012;
6. Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the U.S.; 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.

If you or anyone you know might meet the criteria above, please contact our office to set up a consultation.