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America is seen as the land of opportunity. Unfortunately, for individuals who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children, opportunities are limited. Many live in fear of being deported to a country they have no memory of and no connection to.

At Harrington Law Offices, located in Boston, Massachusetts, we help individuals take advantage of the deferred action program, DACA, and remain in the U.S.

Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal immigration law that allows individuals who were brought into the U.S. illegally as children to remain in the U.S. for a period of two years. Individuals need to reapply every two years to remain lawfully in the U.S.

DACA does not provide illegal immigrants with a path to citizenship. However, it does defer deportation/removal proceedings and provides employment authorization so individuals can work legally in the U.S.

To be eligible for DACA, you must meet the following requirements:

• You came to the U.S. before you turned 16 years old.
• As of June 15, 2012, you were under 31 years old.
• You have continuously lived in the U.S. since June 15, 2007.
• You are currently in high school, graduated from high school, or obtained a general education development (GED) certificate or are an honorably discharged veteran.
• You have not been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors and are not a threat to national security or public safety.
• You also must be at least 15 years old to request deferred action.

If you are currently residing in the country illegally, you are at risk of deportation. This program gives you the opportunity to stop worrying about deportation, and live your life. However, the qualifications are strict and the application process is complex. One mistake and your status in the U.S. could be in jeopardy.

Working with an experienced immigration lawyer, like Daniel P. Harrington, gives you the best chance of obtaining DACA status. For more information about deferred action, contact our firm. Call 617-482-3800. Se habla español. Se Fala Português.