Takoma Park, MD SIJ Status Lawyer

Attorney Assisting With Special Immigrant Juvenile Applications in Takoma Park, Maryland

For certain young immigrants, U.S. immigration laws provide a pathway to lawful status through Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). This status can provide protection for minors in cases where abuse or neglect has occurred or when they have been abandoned by a parent. The process of applying for SIJS involves both state family court proceedings and federal immigration applications, and it can be complex and time-sensitive. Understanding when SIJS may be available and how to apply for protection can make the difference between a secure future in the United States and continued uncertainty.

At Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC, our lawyer understands the legal requirements that apply in SIJS cases. Our attorney works with minors to ensure that they can complete the application process successfully. We will make sure they meet all of their requirements and that their applications are supported by strong evidence. We work to help young people obtain a lawful immigration status and the protections that come with it.

Understanding Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

SIJS can provide relief for minors who:

• Have been declared dependent on a juvenile court or are in the custody of an agency, guardian, or another individual that was appointed by the court.
• Cannot be reunified with at least one parent due to safety concerns related to abuse or neglect or because of a history of abandonment.

The process of applying for SIJS typically begins in a state juvenile or family court, which will issue findings about the child's circumstances. These findings are then used as the basis for an application for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status that is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Situations Where SIJS May Be Available

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status may be an option for minors in a variety of situations, such as:

• A child who has been removed from an unsafe home environment where a parent was physically or emotionally abusive.
• A minor who has been abandoned by one of their parents, leaving them without adequate care or support.
• A young person living with a relative or guardian in the United States after suffering parental neglect.
• A youth who cannot be safely returned to their home country due to the lack of a responsible caregiver.

Because eligibility depends on both the child's situation and their age, it is important to act quickly before the minor reaches the age limit under state law for juvenile court jurisdiction.

Benefits of SIJS for Minors

Obtaining Special Immigrant Juvenile Status can provide significant benefits for young people, including:

• Eligibility for a Green Card: SIJS is a pathway to ensuring that a minor will be able to live in the United States permanently.
• Protection From Deportation: While an SIJS application is pending and after approval, a child will be able to continue living in the U.S. while being protected against removal proceedings.
• Ability to Work: Once permanent residency is granted, a minor can apply for work authorization after they reach the appropriate age.
• Access to Education and Services: A lawful immigration status can provide opportunities to pursue higher education and receive financial aid and certain public benefits.
• A Step Toward Citizenship: Once they have lived in the United States for the required number of years with a valid Green Card, a minor can apply for U.S. citizenship.

How Our Attorney Can Assist With SIJS Applications

Because SIJS involves both family court and immigration proceedings, careful coordination of legal procedures and application requirements is required. At Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC, our attorney can:

• Evaluate whether a minor meets the eligibility requirements for SIJS.
• File petitions in state court to obtain the necessary findings regarding abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
• Prepare and file an SIJS petition with USCIS, including all required forms and supporting evidence.
• Monitor case timelines to ensure that all filings occur before the minor reaches the age cutoff.
• Represent the minor in both family court hearings and immigration proceedings.
• Provide guidance on the next steps after SIJS approval, including the Green Card application process.

Contact Our Takoma Park Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Attorney

The lawyer at Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC provides representation for minors in both family courts and immigration proceedings. He will make sure the proper information is provided when applying for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status. Contact our Takoma Park, MD SIJS application lawyer at 571-441-2233 to schedule a consultation.