485 Pending. Should I extend H1?

[RajaYogi]

I applied for I-140 and I-485 last Nov(2003). My H1 is going to expire in Apr.
Dilema: Should I extend the H1 or not? I can extend the H1 for only 1 1/2 more years. I am thinking of saving the remaining H1 period, i.e if there is some problem with my 485 approval, I can immediately apply for a H1(say premium processing). That way I will have 1 1/2 years to process another GC application. Ofcourse I am aware that on rejection of I-485, I will be without any status. But with 485 processing taking more than 2 yrs, is there any advantage in extending the H1?
Also, is it feasible to extend H1 by myself without an Attorney?
I will be thankful for any advice\suggestion.

 

[ginnu]

I applied for I-140 and I-485 last Nov (2003). My H1 is going to expire in Apr.
----- if your I-140 is not approved file H1 extension
Dilema: Should I extend the H1 or not?
---- Extend H1
I can extend the H1 for only 1 1/2 more years. I am thinking of saving the remaining H1 period, i.e if there is some problem with my 485 approval, I can immediately apply for a H1(say premium processing).
----- in the above scenario what you want to do is only possible if you have valid H1 status and maintain H1 status if you consume 6 years still you are qualified for 7th year H1 extension if you maintain h1 status
That way I will have 1 1/2 years to process another GC application. Ofcourse I am aware that on rejection of I-485, I will be without any status.
----- if you maintain H1 status and I-485 rejected then you will have H1 as back up, H1 status is different and you can stay and work till you have H1 status. I-485 denial has nothing to do with H1 status
But with 485 processing taking more than 2 yrs, is there any advantage in extending the H1?
---- YES, if you find risk of I-485 denial
Also, is it feasible to extend H1 by myself without an Attorney?
----- that depends how much knowledge you have, better hire lawyer