H1 visa while H4 is in progress

[nexor]

Hi

I was on H1 till 02/2011, when I got laid off.

I filed for COS to H4 immediately since my wife is on h1. I received the receipt (7 mar 2011) but my H4 approval is still pending.

Now I have got the job and my employer is ready to file for H1 premium processing.

I just called USCIS and learned that It will take another 50 days before they can process my COS case.

Question is:

Do we need to wait for H4 approval to go through before my new employer files for H1?

meaning waiting for about 2 months.

Is there a way I can start working before?

Preferably I do not want to leave US and deal with visa stamping.

Please advise.

Thanks

Sam

[shripen]

Any advice on this?

I am in the same boat.