Making Unused H1B active

Hi,

I have applied for H-1B in 2012 going through the CAP with company A. I got approval notice from California Service Center I-797B only on October 1st 2012 .I did not use the H1-B at all - meaning did not go to consulate to get stamping done and of course it is now expired.

I have checked with my current company about this petition and they told me that I can’t use it any more as it’s expired and transfer in India not possible.The status was still case was approved

I came to US on L1B now.

  1. Can I use this existing petition and apply for transfer in US?

  2. Is it possible to change the status from L1B to H1B

  3. How many more grace years it have?

Any help regarding this will be highly appreciated.

Thanks,

Lokesh.