Missed biometrics appointment, traveling internationally in 10 days

[RM1996 9]

Hi all, 

 

I posted previously about missing my biometrics appointment (not an interview) as I was out of state and didn't receive the letter or an email update. 

 

I walked in today and was advised they could not do my biometrics by the supervisor (who works there every day) because I do not have a future appointment, they only allow walk-ins if you have an appointment booked. 

 

He was very apologetic and said there was no way he could help me unless, in the next 9 days, I got my new appointment letter, he would do it himself.

 

I called USCIS as soon as I got home, and I know to take them with a grain of salt. She told me I could leave and re-enter the country as long as I had my expired green card, extension letter and a valid passport. She confirmed with me, that my case is currently pending a new rescheduled date - I know not to remain hopeful about what they say.

 

She also said you can reschedule your appointment twice before they consider it an ''abandoned case'', so if I'm in Australia and receive the new rescheduled date and I can't make it, that's my last time I can change it. I know my appointment is considered missed.

 

I have to return home for family reasons and cannot postpone my trip, so before all comments on here start flooding in saying not to leave, I have to.

 

My question is: Has anyone else been in a similar situation as me and had problems coming back into the borders?

Should I consider seeking out an immigration lawyer in case I have issues getting back into the country? - that could be a dumb question but would love to know your advice.

I also looked at other USCIS offices around me and it's a 4-hour drive away.

 

I know USCIS is very messy and I have already dealt with that with my CR-1 visa, I obviously wouldn't be risking this all, unless it was for a dire reason.