Executive Orders: DAPA
Information from a Trusted Wichita Immigration Lawyer
In November 2014, President Obama announced new executive orders that would
provide sweeping changes to the nation's immigration policies. In
an effort to end the deportation of families and give certain non-citizens
the chance to remain in the U.S., the White House revealed Deferred Action
for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA). That initiative
has been stalled due to legal action by 26 state governments, but the
court case is expected to be resolved in the coming weeks.
If you are interested in learning about your eligibility for the DAPA program
and how it could affect you and your family, speak with a knowledgeable
Wichita immigration law attorney today. At
Gregory S.J. Beuke Ltd., Attorney Beuke helps individuals and families secure swift and reliable
immigration law solutions and allows them to continue to build their lives
here in the U.S.
Want to learn more about how the firm can assist you? Contact Attorney Beuke at
316.215.7683 now. ¡Hablamos español!
Legal Delays
Shortly after it was announced, DAPA (and significant changes to Deferred
Action for Childhood Arrivals initiative, or DACA) was challenged in a
lawsuit filed by the state of Texas and co-signed by 25 other states. In
United States v. Texas, Texas and its supporting states have claimed that enacting DAPA and DACA
will put undue financial burden on state governments. The states also
assert that President Obama has overstepped his authority and mandated
policies that should have been first approved by Congress.
Early in 2016, a three-judge panel found some legitimacy to the states’
concerns and the White House requested an immediate review from the Supreme
Court of the United States. The SCOTUS justices have heard arguments from
both sides and are currently deliberating on the matter. A decision is
expected by mid-summer 2016—possibly as early as June. While many
are expecting the court to side with the White House, it is still unclear
whether DAPA will be enacted.
Qualifying for DAPA
DAPA was established on the understanding that many undocumented, non-citizens
have truly started lives in the U.S. and have children who were born here.
DAPA allows these parents to come forward, despite their unlawful status,
avoid deportation and even receive a work permit, a social security card,
and a driver’s license if all other requirements are met.
You may be eligible for DAPA if:
- You have lived in the U.S. continuously since January 1, 2010
- You were physically present in U.S. on November 20, 2014
- You were physically present at the time of your DAPA request
- You had no lawful status on November 20, 2014
- You have not been convicted of a felony or numerous misdemeanors (or a
“serious misdemeanor” as described by the administration)
- You had a child with U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
on November 20, 2014
With its likely passing, DAPA will provide generous parameters for parents
looking to remain in the U.S. If you believe you qualify for DAPA, then
the time to start exploring your options is now. Contact Gregory S.J.
Beuke Ltd. to receive knowledgeable, compassionate counsel ready to help
you meet your immigration goals.
Want to learn more about what the firm can do for you? Use their online
form to request a
case evaluation.