DACA

DACA Attorney in Benton County

DACA Guidance Informed by Thousands of Cases Across Arkansas Courts

We help Benton County residents determine whether they’re facing a renewal, an initial request, or another immigration issue that requires separate analysis. The distinction is critical: Current federal restrictions allow U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to adjudicate renewals but prevent the agency from approving initial requests and related employment authorization.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a discretionary form of deferred action. It doesn’t create lawful immigration status or guarantee employment authorization or protection from removal. Before recommending a next step, we review the person’s immigration and criminal history, prior filings, removal proceedings, supporting records, and current expiration dates.

Call (479) 383-2475 to schedule a free initial consultation with our DACA law firm serving Benton County.

Coordinated Counsel for Immigration & Family-Law Issues

Arnold and Associates, LLC handles these matters within a broader immigration practice that includes family-based immigration, humanitarian relief, removal defense, adjustment of status, and Temporary Protected Status. Immigration concerns can overlap with divorce, custody disputes, domestic violence, and other family-law proceedings. Our combined perspective helps us identify connected legal issues rather than reviewing a request in isolation.

Founding attorney Makenzie Arnold has practiced since 2015 and handled thousands of cases across Arkansas courts. That experience shapes our approach when immigration concerns intersect with family-law proceedings or require representation in court.

When & How to File a DACA Renewal

USCIS encourages recipients to submit a renewal during the 150-day period before their deferred action expires, preferably at least 120 days before expiration. Filing too early or waiting until the expiration date can create complications, so we assess timing based on the recipient’s circumstances and current agency guidance.

A renewal filing generally includes:

Form I-821D: Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
Form I-765WS: The worksheet submitted with the employment authorization application

A renewal may require closer review following an arrest, criminal charge, removal-proceeding activity, prior termination, or a discrepancy involving identity or date of birth. Under current USCIS instructions, someone whose deferred action expired within the previous year may generally follow the renewal process. A request submitted more than one year after expiration may instead be treated as an initial request.

Federal Restrictions on Initial DACA Requests

USCIS currently accepts initial requests submitted on paper, but court-related restrictions prevent the agency from approving them or the associated employment authorization. Acceptance by USCIS doesn’t mean a request can be approved under current policy.

Initial-request criteria include age, arrival in the United States before age 16, continuous residence, education or qualifying military service, and criminal or public-safety concerns. Because federal litigation and agency guidance can change, we examine the current rules, the applicant’s history, and the potential consequences before documents are submitted.

What We Examine During a DACA Legal Review

We first determine whether the issue involves a renewal, an initial request, or a different immigration option. We then examine relevant applications, immigration records, criminal history, USCIS notices, removal history, identity documents, and inconsistencies that may require attention.

Deferred action and an employment authorization document are distinct from lawful permanent residence and citizenship. Our review can therefore consider whether family-based immigration or another form of relief warrants separate evaluation. No attorney can promise approval because decisions remain discretionary and are governed by federal law and agency policy, not Benton County procedures.

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Testimonials From Former Clients

Real Stories, Real Results

Our clients’ experiences speak to the dedication, preparation, and advocacy we bring to every case. Read what former clients have shared about working with our team.

"A Fierce Yet Compassionate Advocate"
Makenzie Arnold was an absolute lifesaver during one of the hardest times in my life. From the very first consultation, she was different from the other lawyers I spoke with—she didn’t just listen, she *fought* for me.

- Jennifer H.
"Cannot Recommend Makenzie Arnold Enough"
Cannot recommend Makenzie Arnold enough. She handled my custody case with more compassion and grace than I could have ever imagined. It was incredibly obvious that she actually cared about my family and our needs.

- Todd
"She Was Instrumental in Winning Our Case"
Makenzie Arnold is without a doubt the best attorney I've ever worked with. She answered emails quickly, she explained things to us well. She is an absolute bulldog in court.

- Jarrod C.
"Hands Down the Best Attorney"
She has grit and integrity. We had a very difficult case with the odds stacked against us. We came out on top. She's highly ethical and commands a solid understanding of the law.

- David L.
"She Was Truly on My Side"
It was a relief knowing I could trust her to advocate for me. She kept me informed and was available to answer questions I had along the way. Will absolutely work with Melanie again if I ever have other legal needs!

- Becca S.
"A Gem in The Legal Field"
Payton's kindness, understanding, and responsiveness truly set her apart as a top-notch lawyer. Throughout the entire process, she eased my fears and made me feel like I had a dedicated advocate fighting for me and my children.

- Meggan
"Kind, Professional, and Supportive"
Morgan Woelke was incredibly kind, professional, and supportive, patiently guiding me through every step of the process and always making sure I felt informed, confident, and well assisted throughout my case.

- Lilian C.

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Why Choose Arnold and Associates, LLC?

The Right Firm MAkes A Difference

Trial-Tested Advocacy

We prepare every case with a courtroom mindset and are always ready to fight for you when it matters most.
Client-First Approach
You are never just a case number. We take the time to understand your goals and build a strategy around what matters most to you.
Proven Experience
With thousands of cases handled, we bring real-world experience and practical insight to every legal challenge.
Aggressive When It Counts

We negotiate strategically, but we won’t hesitate to push hard when your rights or your family are on the line.
Free Consultations Available

We offer free consultations for select case types so you can understand your options, ask questions, and feel confident about your next steps before making any commitment.
Flexible & Accessible

We offer flexible meeting options and responsive communication because legal issues don’t always happen on a convenient schedule.

When to Consult a DACA Lawyer in Benton County

Consider seeking legal guidance if your current deferred action is approaching expiration, has expired or been terminated, or has prompted a notice from USCIS. A consultation may also be appropriate if you have an arrest or criminal history, have been involved in removal proceedings, or aren’t sure whether this is the right immigration option.

We serve clients throughout Benton County and Northwest Arkansas through in-person and virtual consultations. You’ll receive direct, client-focused guidance informed by our broader immigration and family-law practice. When litigation or immigration-court proceedings become part of the case, we’re prepared to advocate for you in court.

Clarify Your Options Before You File

Schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your immigration history, current status, relevant deadlines, and questions about federal restrictions on initial requests. Because policy can change through litigation or agency action, seeking guidance before an approaching expiration date gives us time to assess the current rules and identify potential concerns without avoidable last-minute pressure.

Call (479) 383-2475 to request your free immigration consultation with Arnold and Associates, LLC.