There is no legal requirement to “exhaust remedies” – i.e., make personal efforts or appeals to get a decision on a delayed immigration application. However, before filing a mandamus lawsuit to address an immigration delay, it is best to make such attempts and diligently document the efforts taken to move your case along. That means keeping a record of inquiries made to USCIS, State Department, Ombudsman, Senators, Congress members, etc. Cases present better when plaintiffs try to address their delays at an agency level before requesting the court’s help.