DACA

DACA Attorney in Baltimore

DACA Guidance in English & Spanish Since 2010

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, commonly called DACA, is temporary deferred action for certain people who came to the United States as children. It doesn’t grant lawful permanent residence, citizenship, or lawful immigration status. Eligibility history, renewal timing, employment authorization, travel plans, and prior immigration records can affect the appropriate next step.

Initial requests and renewals face different legal and procedural conditions. Before filing, we review which type of request applies and whether a lapse, criminal record, immigration court proceeding, or other change requires closer attention. Law Office Of Raymond O. Griffith has represented clients in immigration matters since 2010.

Discuss your DACA history and available options with our Baltimore immigration team. Call (410) 883-9157 to request a consultation.

Representation Grounded in the Immigrant Experience

We provide immigration guidance in English and Spanish, with remote consultations available. Our firm is led by Raymond O. Griffith, the son of immigrants, and includes staff members from immigrant backgrounds. That perspective informs how we address decisions affecting families, education, and employment.

Our work in family immigration and deportation defense allows us to identify concerns beyond a DACA filing. We prepare each case carefully and consider the client’s individual circumstances.

Reviewing DACA Eligibility & Filing History

A DACA review may involve your age, date and manner of entry, continuous residence, physical presence, education or military service, criminal history, and previous immigration filings. Prior grants and expiration dates also matter because USCIS may classify a request differently if it’s a renewal, follows a lapse, or comes after termination.

Relevant records may include:

Identity documents and records showing entry into the United States
Evidence of continuous residence and physical presence
School, graduation, enrollment, or qualifying military records
Prior DACA approvals, employment authorization documents, and USCIS notices
Immigration court papers or records involving arrests, charges, or convictions

The evidence required depends on the type of request and the applicant’s history. We can examine prior applications and government records before discussing whether a filing may be available under current rules.

When to Renew DACA & Employment Authorization

USCIS generally encourages eligible recipients to submit renewal requests 150 to 120 days before their current DACA period expires. Filing instructions, fees, and policies can change, so applicants should confirm the requirements against current USCIS guidance.

A renewal commonly involves Form I-821D and Form I-765, which is connected to the employment authorization document. Waiting until the expiration date approaches may create a gap in deferred action or work authorization. A lapse of more than one year may also change how USCIS treats the request, making an early review important.

Continue Reading Read Less

How DACA Litigation Affects Current Requests

Court orders and federal litigation have created an important distinction between initial requests and renewals. Under current USCIS guidance, the agency accepts initial DACA requests but remains prohibited from granting them while applicable court orders are in effect. A receipt notice for an initial request doesn’t mean DACA or related employment authorization has been granted.

USCIS continues to process qualifying renewals and related employment authorization applications under its current guidance. Because that policy may change as litigation develops, we consider the rules in effect at the time of review rather than relying on outdated information or a previous filing experience.

When DACA & Immigration Court Proceedings Overlap

A DACA concern may overlap with a Notice to Appear, prior removal order, hearing notice, or another Baltimore Immigration Court record. A DACA filing doesn’t replace the obligation to attend required hearings or respond to court deadlines.

Because our practice includes deportation defense, we can examine DACA questions alongside related removal proceedings. The review may include court notices, detention history, previous orders, and records from the Executive Office for Immigration Review.

How to Prepare for a DACA Consultation

A productive consultation begins with a clear account of your immigration and DACA history. We review prior applications and government documents before discussing possible strategies, including whether the case involves a renewal, an initial request, a lapse, or another immigration option.

Be prepared to discuss or provide:

Your current DACA and work permit expiration dates
Copies of previous applications, approval notices, and requests for evidence
Your entry, residence, education, and employment history
Any arrests, criminal charges, immigration court notices, or prior removal orders
International travel history and questions involving advance parole
Changes in family relationships or other immigration circumstances

Travel outside the United States can have immigration consequences, even when advance parole is under consideration. We can evaluate your records and discuss case-specific concerns before you decide whether to file or travel. Consultations are available remotely in English or Spanish.

Continue Reading Read Less

Professional, Responsive Immigration Guidance

Clients have described our service as kind, professional, communicative, and responsive. Because immigration histories often involve sensitive personal information, we approach each consultation with care, diligence, and clear communication.

Discuss Your DACA Options With Our Baltimore Team

Current DACA rules and your immigration history affect which options may be available. Contact us to discuss renewal timing, employment authorization, an initial request, a lapse, travel questions, or related immigration court concerns.

We offer remote consultations and service in English and Spanish, allowing you to begin the review without traveling to our office.

Call (410) 883-9157 to request a DACA consultation with Law Office Of Raymond O. Griffith.

Read All Testimonials

"I Got My Citizenship"
Attorney Griffith is the best immigration lawyer in the Baltimore area. And today, with his help, I got my citizenship.

- Phuoc N.
"Down to Earth"
He and his team were committed to providing quality work and dedicated the extra time to explain everything.

- Denise B.
"A Team Cheering Me On"
This team was very supportive and ensured I was fully prepared... I felt I had a team cheering me on from start to finish.

- Christan B.
"I Am Now A Citizen!"
We were extremely pleased with the professionalism and attention provided. I am happy to say that I am now a US citizen.

- Jenny R.
"Above and Beyond"
Wow! This is a great law firm for your immigrant needs. They are so professional and helpful. Mr. Griffith goes above and beyond.

- Lola A.
"Creative & Compassionate"
Ray has great judgment, excellent communication skills, is creative, compassionate & SO MUCH more.

- Kim L.
"Great Job"
Great job helping me through my immigration process. He is always ready and available to address any questions or concerns.

- Ardita E.
"Forever Grateful"
Thanks to the Law Office of Raymond Griffith, I received my 10-year green card. Best moment in my life!

- Former Client

Contact Us Today

We’re Ready to Help

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

*First Name
Please enter your first name.
*Last Name
Please enter your last name.
*Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
*Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
*Type of Case?
Please make a selection.
*Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
*How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Law Office Of Raymond O. Griffith at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Immigrants Serving Immigrants
Everyone you'll interact with at our firm has an immigration experience of their own, and we're passionate about helping you with your immigration needs.
Client-Focused Service
Our team prioritizes you; we're dedicated to keeping current with changing immigration laws, citizenship application requirements, and procedures.
Caring, Comfortable, Confidential
We'll be with you every step of the way through this legal process, and we'll fight for your rights and find a solution.
Offering Virtual Consultations
You don't need to come to our office. We can meet virtually to help make the process a little easier for you.