DACA Attorneys With 50 Years of Experience Serving the Dallas Area
Our knowledgeable DACA lawyers serving the Dallas community offer compassionate and experienced support. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your DACA status, we’ll guide you through every step to help you remain in the U.S. with work authorization and protection from removal.
Why Work With Spar & Bernstein on Your DACA Case
With deep experience handling immigration cases throughout Dallas, our attorneys ensure your DACA application or renewal is complete, timely, and legally sound. We’ve helped more than 100,000 people obtain immigration benefits—including many right here in Illinois.
What Is the DACA Program and How It Applies to Illinois Residents
DACA is a discretionary immigration policy created to protect certain individuals who entered the U.S. as children without legal status. It allows eligible recipients—including those living in Dallas—to apply for deferred action, which permits them to live and work legally in the U.S. for two-year renewable periods.
DACA Eligibility Requirements for First-Time Applicants
To qualify for DACA, Dallas applicants must meet the following original criteria:
- You were under 16 when you entered the U.S.
- You were physically present on June 15, 2012, and at the time of applying
- You’ve continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
- You were born after June 15, 1981
- You entered without inspection or your lawful status expired before June 15, 2012
- You are currently in school, have graduated, obtained a GED, or served honorably in the U.S. military
- You have no significant criminal history and are not a national security threat
How Long DACA Protections Last and When to Renew
DACA protections are valid for two years and must be renewed before expiration. In Dallas, where DACA recipients often rely on uninterrupted work authorization, it’s critical to submit your renewal application around 120 days before your current status expires to avoid a gap in protection.
Benefits of DACA for Undocumented Individuals Living in Dallas
DACA offers essential protections for undocumented individuals in Dallas:
- A Social Security number
- Work authorization
- Eligibility for a driver’s license in Illinois
- Permission to apply for Advance Parole (travel abroad and return under certain conditions)
- Legal protection from deportation
The Current Legal Status of DACA and What Dallas Applicants Should Know
DACA has faced legal challenges in recent years, but current recipients can still apply for renewal. USCIS accepts new applications, but processing may be delayed or impacted by litigation. Our team in Dallas keeps DACA recipients informed on evolving legal decisions and future options.
Legal Help With DACA Renewals and Applications in the Dallas Area
If you live in Dallas and need help applying for or renewing DACA, our attorneys can help with documentation, eligibility, and representation before USCIS. We ensure that every application is complete, timely, and backed by legal strategy tailored to your case.
DACA FAQs for Dallas Applicants
How Can a DACA Immigration Lawyer in Dallas Help With a First-Time Application?
A DACA immigration attorney in Dallas can walk you through the entire process of gathering documents, proving continuous U.S. residence, and submitting a complete application package. Since DACA is a discretionary program with strict criteria, having a lawyer ensures your submission is accurate and persuasive.
Is It Necessary to Hire a DACA Attorney for Renewals?
While renewals may seem straightforward, it’s wise to work with a DACA lawyer in Dallas—especially if your situation has changed or you’ve had legal issues since your last approval. They’ll help you avoid mistakes and maintain uninterrupted protection and work authorization.
Can a Lawyer Help if I Aged Out or Had a Gap in Status?
Yes. A Dallas immigration lawyer experienced in DACA cases can evaluate your eligibility, explore reinstatement or late renewal options, and help determine whether you qualify under current policies. If you no longer qualify, they can also suggest alternative immigration pathways.
What Happens if My DACA Renewal Is Delayed or Denied?
Delays or denials can result in loss of work authorization and legal protection. A DACA attorney in Dallas can communicate with USCIS, file appeals or motions if needed, and help determine whether errors or missing evidence affected your case. Their legal support is key during unexpected complications.
Can a DACA Lawyer in Dallas Help Me Apply for Permanent Residency in the Future?
While DACA does not provide a direct path to a green card, a DACA lawyer in Dallas can assess whether you qualify for adjustment of status through marriage, family sponsorship, or employment-based options. They’ll also monitor legislative changes that could create new opportunities for DACA recipients.
Bradford H. Bernstein, a second-generation leader at Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, P.C., has helped over 100,000 clients with immigration and personal injury issues. Brad joined the firm in 1993, became a partner in 1997, and assumed leadership in 2000 after Harry Spar retired.
View Brad's Bio