Immigration Lawyers Can Help Chicago DREAMers with Deferred Action

If you entered the United States illegally as a child, you have probably lived in fear of being discovered and deported. Moreover, you have probably been denied access to many opportunities because of this fear and your lack of documentation. Fortunately, recent legal developments have given people in this situation an option for escaping the constant fear of deportation and obtaining the documentation necessary to access services and opportunities that others take for granted. Since 1975, the attorneys of Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, PC have helped countless individuals navigate the process of immigration to Chicago. We are informed of the latest immigration policy updates and stand ready to help those who qualify to take advantage of these developments.

DREAM Act in Chicago

The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act is a proposed piece of legislation that would grant legal status to thousands of qualifying individuals. It applies to those who entered the country illegally as young children, but who have lived here continuously for at least five years and maintained good character during that time.

Unfortunately, while the DREAM Act was proposed years ago, Congress has yet to pass it. To address this problem, the Obama Administration announced the “deferred action” program. This program makes two-year renewable protection from deportation available to many individuals who would qualify under the DREAM Act. Chicago immigrants in this category can take advantage of this program by filing a request with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• Under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012
• Entered the country when you were younger than 16
• Lived in the country continuously for at least five years
• In school now, obtained your high school diploma or equivalency, or served in the military

In addition, you must not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors. Those who would have qualified under the DREAM Act in Chicago can apply for deferred action by filing Form I-821D with USCIS. Our dedicated Chicago DREAM Act attorneys can help you understand the pros and cons of the deferred action program and submit the correct and complete documentation to get your application processed promptly.

If You Are Interested in Immigration in Chicago, Contact Us Today

The law firm of Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, PC has spent nearly 40 years helping individuals and families confront all manners of immigration issues — from the simple and routine to the most complex. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand the process, gather necessary documents and submit the required forms. Call our Chicago, IL office at (312) 427-6163 or contact us online to discuss your immigration issue with an experienced and dedicated attorney.