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Obtaining Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals in NYC and New Jersey
We can help those who immigrated through no fault of their own
One of the most exciting recent developments in U.S. immigration law has been the institution of the deferred action program by the Obama administration. With the DREAM Act interminably stalled in Congress, the administration has taken the initiative to allow non-citizens who entered the country as children to come out of the shadows without fear of deportation. Unfortunately, deferred action has flaws and is far from a permanent solution. However, we at Bretz & Coven, LLP are committed to helping the valued immigrants among us in NY understand and take advantage of this program and to continuing the fight for comprehensive immigration reform and the congressional action necessary to make it permanent.
Who qualifies for deferred action?
Recently, the Obama administration issued orders to halt all deportation actions against undocumented immigrants who meet certain requirements. Known as deferred action, this program applies to those currently living in the United States who entered as young children and meet the following requirements:
- Currently under the age of 30
- Entered the country when they were under the age of 16
- Have lived in the country continuously for at least five years
- Have not been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude
- One of the following:
- Are currently enrolled in school
- Have completed high school or its equivalency
- Have served honorably in the military
Strengths and weaknesses of deferred action
While far short of the comprehensive immigration reform, we need, deferred action is still a significant step forward. It is positive in that it allows certain immigrants to come out of the shadows and to even obtain work authorization. This may very well strike a significant blow to U.S. companies that exploit undocumented immigrant labor through low wages and poor working conditions. The downside is that it only applies to a small percentage of the immigrant population, and it does not provide any path to citizenship or permanent residency, even for those who do qualify. It is truly a temporary measure meant to provide some relief while Congress continues to avoid the issue.
Because participating in deferred action requires undocumented immigrants to reveal themselves to immigration authorities, it is important to ensure that you qualify before you decide to participate in the program. Our NY attorneys can evaluate your situation to determine if deferred action is right for you. And if so, we can help you understand the process, gather and complete the necessary paperwork and get your application processed in a timely manner.
Contact us to learn about the deferred action program in NY
While far short of the comprehensive immigration reform we need, deferred action does allow certain immigrants — even some currently under deportation proceedings — to gain some security and peace of mind. We at Bretz & Coven, LLP are proud to assist immigrants in understanding and qualifying for these programs. Contact our experienced immigration lawyers in New York City today at 212-267-2555 or online for creative solutions to your complex immigration problems. For an office appointment in Metro Park, New Jersey, call 1 (732) 313-0075.
