I am currently on AOS (NIW approved. I-485 filed July 2007). My H1b (cap exempt) ended on July 2009. I do not work since then. My questions are:

If I am going back to work on H1b, can I get the visa without leaving the US, or the consulate processing is the only way?

Since I do not have AP, is there any risk I might lose AOS or be denied for re-entry if I go to an US consulate to apply for H1b?

I also read that even I get AP, Leaving the US may trigger a bar on re-entry because I have been out of status for some time. Is this true?

How long will it take to get EAD and AP approved according to your resent experience?

Thank you.