Fresno DACA Lawyers

Protecting the Rights of Dreamers in Clovis & the Central Valley

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a vital immigration policy that offers protection from deportation to certain undocumented individuals who arrived in the United States as children. Although DACA does not grant lawful immigration status, it allows eligible recipients to live and work legally in the U.S. for renewable periods of two years, opening doors to opportunity and stability for thousands in the Central Valley. 

Since its implementation in 2012, DACA has been the subject of ongoing legal and political challenges. As a result, the program’s rules and future remain uncertain, creating anxiety and confusion for many who depend on it, including students and young professionals throughout Fresno and Clovis. 

At Andrade Auld Law, we understand how essential this program is to the lives and futures of Dreamers and their families. As a leading DACA attorney in Fresno, our firm is committed to helping clients navigate this complex and constantly evolving area of immigration law with clarity, compassion, and skill, delivering individualized support to each client.

Schedule a free consultation with a Fresno DACA attorney at Andrade Auld Law. Call (559) 517-3733 or use our convenient contact form to get started. Hablamos español.

Understanding the DACA Renewal Process in Fresno

For current DACA recipients in Fresno and neighboring communities, the renewal process is a crucial step to maintain protection and work authorization. Typically, you should begin the renewal process 120 to 150 days before your current DACA expires. Working with a DACA attorney in Fresno ensures that your paperwork is accurate and submitted on time, minimizing the risk of lapses in coverage. Our proximity to local community resources—such as the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation and local schools—means we can also direct you to support for documentation retrieval or translation services, which often facilitates a smoother application process.

Our approach at Andrade Auld Law is to provide clear guidance throughout each stage of your renewal. We review every detail of your application, address any changes in your circumstances, and keep you informed about deadlines that impact your eligibility. Since policy guidelines can be amended due to ongoing legal challenges, partnering with a DACA attorney in Fresno who remains up-to-date on DACA changes empowers you to take proactive steps, protecting your status and securing peace of mind for both you and your family here in the Central Valley.

Who Is Eligible for DACA?

To qualify for DACA under the current guidelines, an applicant must meet specific requirements, including:

• Arrival in the U.S. before turning 16 years old
• Continuous residence in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
• Physical presence in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and at the time of applying
• Under age 31 as of June 15, 2012
• Entry into the U.S. without inspection before June 15, 2012, or expiration of lawful status before that date
• Currently in school, graduated from high school, obtained a GED, or honorably discharged from the U.S. military
• No felony convictions, significant misdemeanors, or multiple minor misdemeanors, and not a threat to national security or public safety

Each case is reviewed individually, and minor errors or misunderstandings can affect the outcome of your application.

Because eligibility for DACA can be nuanced and the process requires detailed documentation, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable DACA lawyer in Fresno who can help you understand every requirement as it applies to your personal history. Many people living in the Central Valley may face unique circumstances, such as changes in educational enrollment or questions regarding their time in the U.S. Collaborating with a local immigration lawyer means you benefit from a tailored approach that considers community resources like support services at Fresno State University or Fresno Unified schools. By working together, we can help ensure you meet the eligibility criteria with the strongest case possible and avoid risks associated with incomplete or inaccurate submissions.

What Is the Current Status of DACA?

Currently, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is accepting DACA renewal applications, but not new, first-time applications. This is due to ongoing federal court rulings that have limited the program’s reach while leaving renewals in place. 

Because DACA continues to face legal scrutiny and could change at any time, it is more important than ever to stay informed and work with an experienced DACA attorney in Fresno.

For individuals and families in Fresno and across the Central Valley, staying updated on changes in DACA policy is especially important. The legal landscape can shift quickly in response to federal court decisions or changes in government policy. As your local resource for DACA representation, we remain vigilant in monitoring these developments so you can make timely, informed decisions about renewals and understand how new rulings may impact your status. Many Dreamers in our region count on us to interpret these changes and deliver actionable guidance, ensuring their protection and lawful presence while contributing positively to our diverse local economy. If you have questions about how the current status of DACA affects your eligibility or legal options, our DACA lawyers in Fresno are here to provide clear answers and compassionate support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to process a DACA renewal in Fresno?

DACA renewal processing times can fluctuate based on USCIS workload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances. In Fresno, most DACA renewals take between two to five months from the date USCIS receives your package. To minimize the risk of losing protection, we recommend applying for renewal with a Fresno DACA attorney 120 to 150 days before your expiration date. By working with a DACA lawyer in Fresno who monitors case progress and keeps you updated, you can reduce your risk of delays due to missing documents or requests for further evidence, ensuring you stay eligible to live and work in the Central Valley without interruption.

What documents are needed for a DACA renewal?

When seeking to renew your DACA status, you’ll need several important documents. These typically include a copy of your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD), two new passport photos, any Notices of Action from prior DACA approvals, and updated identification documents such as your passport or state ID. You’ll also need to provide evidence of your continued presence in the United States since your last approval. In Fresno, many local schools and agencies can assist with transcripts or enrollment records for education verification. A qualified DACA attorney in Fresno ensures your paperwork is organized and submitted correctly, reducing the likelihood of errors or delays in your application.

Can a criminal conviction affect my DACA eligibility?

Absolutely, certain criminal convictions—including felonies, significant misdemeanors, or a series of minor misdemeanors—may make you ineligible for DACA. In Fresno, your DACA lawyer can help you review local law enforcement records or court documents to clarify your record and assess eligibility. Our Fresno DACA attorneys can guide you through collecting the appropriate documentation and honestly reviewing your record. We are committed to transparent, individualized recommendations to help you understand your legal options within the Central Valley, even if past criminal history poses challenges to your application or renewal.