Originally Posted by jdjmeza

I used a lawyer for AP just in case things didn't go as planned upon re-entry. The lawyer told me the same thing, that's why I went the AP route. It's difficult to get the pardon but it's not impossible. I have two close friends that went that route, both got RFE'd. The process is longer and more expensive, especially if you use a lawyer. I suggest you try to file for an expedited AP if your situation allows for it. The AOS process is much simpler than the consular processing, you can even file on your own if your case is straight-forward.