It finally happened.

[Arlen]

Thanks guys.

We spoke to an immigration attorney through a charity who gave us some advice, but we would have had to pay her at least $300 as well as all the form fees (nearly $3000 in total) and she wouldn't have been able to help much with something like this.

For a professional immigration attorney it'd be between $1500 and $5000 just for their help to file the forms.

My wife is a U.S. Citizen who lived here all her life but that really hasn't helped us any.
The fact is, we have been following the instructions given by the 'immigration agents' on the USCIS phone line and I've learned that they have no clue what they are talking about and refuse to be help liable for their mistakes.
(Because of the mistakes they made with the fiance visa we are out $800 or so that they won't refund.)

I know we'll get it worked out eventually, but it's been quite a few years being broke and fighting red tape.

[BoldHighlander]

Arlen, I hope & pray for it all to work out (quickly & smoothly) for you & Diane. Please keep us posted!

[CaseyB]

The fact is, we have been following the instructions given by the 'immigration agents' on the USCIS phone line and I've learned that they have no clue what they are talking about and refuse to be help liable for their mistakes.

Yup! You need to follow the instructions on the web page! Even if they directly go against what the person on the phone told you since they are not going to be the one reviewing the application. It took us nearly four years to get everything sorted out! The key is to read and re-read the document requirements and to read everything on the USCIS website and to remain resolute! I really wish I had more to offer as I know how badly this situation sucks, but all I can offer are condolences and encouragement!

[Alan H]

This must all be really discouraging, and I'm sorry it's working out this way. Sometimes it seems like the system is set up to shaft the people who try to do it "right" for the right reasons, while "other folks" who are just here for as much of the free ride as they can milk, get all the breaks.

My fingers are crossed for you, and I'm wishing you every possible stroke of good luck.

[Burly Brute]

Hey man, if you need me to sign any petitions or vouch for anything let me know!