18 Months Pending Background Check since Green Card Interview

[Adventure]

It's been 18 months since the interview for Green Card I-485 (Marriage Based) and we still haven't heard anything yet. We were told by the officer after the interview that he is going to go ahead and Green Card and we should be hearing something within 4 weeks. But we haven't heard anything since then. Every time we call USCIS they say it's still under process of background check. We've tried contacting our local Congressman and Ombudsman Office but the answer is always the same "Background Check".

Has anyone gone through same experience? If so, what was your experience? Is this normal? How long does it usually takes? What was your outcome? Are there any other options?

Any help is much appreciated..

Country of Origin: Pakistan

[Poramin]

Your other option is to consult with your attorney about filing a Mandamus Writ.

This is basically a lawsuit against USCIS to have them make a decision. Since this is a court proceeding requiring an attorney, filing a Writ can cost anywhere from $5000 to $9000 (depending on how fancy the attorney).

[BayAreaCaliAOS]

Or also consult a pro bono attorney. Wish you luck!