H1 extension was necessary but u dont have to wait for h1 extension decision to start Perm. are u already done with prevailing wage determination and advertizement processes? Coz if u r just starting, Perm application is at least 4 months far with 2 months for prevailing wage determination and 2 months of advertisement process before u can apply for Perm. So u will have received ur h1 extension decision by that time even if ur lawyer wants h1 extension decision to apply Perm. Tell ur lawyer to start up.