About Yarra, Rivas & Associates — immigration law Merced California

Yarra, Rivas & Associates provides immigration law Merced California clients and families in the Central Valley have trusted since 2012, when one longtime client first used the firm for DACA assistance and returned a decade later for adjustment of status. Operating from their Yosemite Parkway office in Merced County, the firm’s bilingual team — including paralegal Leslie Borjas — handles DACA renewals, family-based immigration petitions, adjustment of status, and deportation matters for clients across the San Joaquin Valley. Clients in the Merced area consistently describe the firm as professional, responsive, and genuinely invested in their immigration outcomes. Leslie Borjas is repeatedly named for her thorough communication, timely document delivery, and ability to walk clients through every step of their case.

The firm also handles criminal defense, divorce, family law, and personal injury matters in addition to immigration work, making it a versatile legal resource for Merced County’s large Latino and immigrant community. The firm’s Fresno office serves clients across a broader Central Valley footprint. A small number of reviews reflect service concerns from individual clients, though the overall pattern of feedback is strongly positive for responsiveness and case outcomes.

What Clients Say

Clients consistently praise Leslie Borjas for her responsiveness, professionalism, and genuine care for case outcomes. Multiple reviewers say she responds to emails within hours and calls proactively with updates. One ten-year client describes trusting the firm for their initial DACA application in 2012 and adjustment of status in 2022, calling the experience seamless. Spanish-language service is a defining feature of the firm’s practice, and many clients write their reviews in Spanish reflecting their comfort and satisfaction. The firm’s longstanding presence and community reputation make it a recognized resource in Merced County’s immigrant community.

immigration law Merced — Practice Areas & Services

• DACA applications and renewals in Merced County
• Adjustment of status and green card applications
• Family-based immigration petitions
• Work permits and employment authorization
• Deportation defense and removal proceedings
• Bilingual representation in English and Spanish

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DACA and who qualifies in California?

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal program that provides temporary work authorization and protection from deportation for individuals who came to the U.S. as children. To qualify, applicants must have arrived before age 16, have resided continuously in the U.S. since 2007, have no serious criminal convictions, and meet education or military service requirements. DACA must be renewed every two years, and an experienced immigration attorney can ensure renewal applications are submitted correctly and on time.

How does adjustment of status work in California?

Adjustment of status allows an eligible immigrant already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent residence without returning to their home country for a consular interview. It involves filing Form I-485 with USCIS, attending a biometrics appointment, and in most cases attending an interview at the local USCIS field office. California has a large USCIS caseload, and having an attorney who tracks processing times and prepares thorough applications is essential for avoiding unnecessary delays.

Can I apply for a green card if I have a DACA status?

Possibly, depending on how you entered the United States. DACA recipients who entered legally and have an eligible family or employer sponsor may be able to adjust status to lawful permanent resident. Those who entered without inspection face significant additional hurdles. An immigration attorney at Yarra, Rivas & Associates can evaluate your specific immigration history and identify the most viable pathway to permanent residence.