Equal Justice Center – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Get Help

The EJC represents Austin-area residents who are seeking legal assistance applying for DACA, and organizes free DACA clinics throughout Texas. Individuals interested in obtaining our services, planning a clinic in their community, or receiving general information regarding DACA can call our toll-free hotline at 888.670.6854.

What is DACA?

DACA is the Obama administration’s executive action program that allows undocumented young students and graduates who have grown up in U.S. to obtain temporary, renewable employment authorization and protection from deportation. Since DACA was first established in 2012, the EJC has helped thousands of individuals across Texas obtain work permits and immigration relief through DACA, enabling these promising young people to secure better jobs and earnings and a better future for themselves and their families and their communities.

The Current State of the DACA Program

The Trump administration rescinded DACA in September of 2017, but advocates across the country filed lawsuits to challenge that decision.  In January and February of 2018, courts in California and New York blocked the termination of DACA while litigation continues.  As a result of these court rulings, the government is now accepting DACA renewal applications.  DACA is available to individuals who have had DACA at any time in the past.  No first-time DACA applications are being adjudicated and at this time DACA is unavailable to individuals who have not previously had DACA.

Services Provided

The EJC provides individualized legal assistance to Central Texas residents who are seeking legal assistance applying for DACA.  We also work with local community groups to organize and support free DACA clinics and forums throughout Texas which help large numbers of eligible students and graduates get expert help preparing their own successful DACA applications. We also conduct community education and information sessions that help community organizations, families, and individuals learn about DACA and DAPA and how they might benefit.

Languages Spoken:

English and Spanish, with interpreters available upon request for other languages.

Multiple Offices

The Equal Justice Center serves the entire state and has offices in Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio. Click the link below to find information on all the EJC offices.

http://www.equaljusticecenter.org/about/contact.html