Rockville Juvenile Visa Attorneys

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Attorneys Helping Immigrant Minors in Rockville, MD

Many different types of immigrants may face difficulties related to their legal status in the United States, and those who are undocumented or have been accused of violating immigration laws may face deportation. Minors in these situations may be at risk of harm, especially in situations involving neglect, abandonment, or abuse. For juvenile immigrants in these circumstances, the United States provides a form of relief known as Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status. This status is designed to offer protection and a pathway to permanent residency for vulnerable minors.

The attorneys at Salvado Law Offices provide compassionate legal help for minors who need to address immigration issues. We will work diligently to gather necessary evidence, advocate for the minor's best interests in court, and ensure that the minor meets all eligibility criteria for SIJ status. By presenting a compelling, evidence-backed case, we can help secure the legal protection that vulnerable minors need.

Understanding Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status

Special Immigrant Juvenile status is a designation by U.S. immigration authorities that provides eligible immigrant minors with the opportunity to apply for a Green Card, granting them lawful permanent residency in the United States. SIJ status provides protection for children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents and who are unable to reunite with their families.

The benefits of SIJ status are significant. For qualifying minors, this status can ensure that they can maintain legal residency in the United States while providing them with the stability and security necessary to build a better future. This includes the ability to work legally, access education and healthcare, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.

Eligibility Requirements for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

To be eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile status, a minor must meet specific criteria, which include:

• Age: The minor must be under 21 years old at the time they file an SIJ petition.
• Marital status: The minor must be unmarried at the time of filing an SIJ petition. If they were previously married, the marriage must have ended through divorce, annulment, or the death of the other spouse.
• Juvenile court order: The minor must have a valid court order issued by a state court. This order must declare that the child is a dependent of the court or has been placed under the custody of a state agency. The court must have found that the minor is unable to be reunited with either of their parents due to safety concerns related to neglect, abuse, or abandonment. The court order must also state that it would not be in the child's best interest to return to their home country or the country where they or their parents most recently resided.
• USCIS consent: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must consent to the grant of SIJ status based on the evidence provided. The evidence must demonstrate that the juvenile court order was issued to address concerns related to abandonment, abuse, or neglect instead of being for the purpose of obtaining immigration-related benefits.

Application Process for a Special Immigrant Juvenile

By applying for SIJ status, a minor can receive protection against potential deportation, and they will also be able to apply for Lawful Permanent Resident status. The application process involves several steps:

1. Form I-360: A minor must file a petition for SIJ classification. This form must be accompanied by the juvenile court order and other supporting documentation. This form must be filed before the minor's 21st birthday.
2. Deferred action: If a minor has applied for SIJ status, and a visa is not immediately available, USCIS will grant deferred action, meaning that they will not be subject to deportation proceedings. After deferred action is granted, a minor may apply for employment authorization.
3. Adjustment of Status: After a minor is granted SIJ status, they can apply to adjust their status and receive a Green Card by filing Form I-485.

Legal and Practical Issues for Juvenile Immigrants

Minors who are undocumented or who may be at risk of deportation are likely to face numerous challenges. These may include the need for special education services, mental health support, and integration into the community. Obtaining a Green Card through SIJ status can open doors to educational opportunities that were previously inaccessible. Minors can apply for financial aid, scholarships, and other educational programs that support their academic and professional growth. Understanding and navigating the U.S. education and healthcare systems can be daunting. The attorneys at Salvado Law Offices can help connect minors with local resources in Rockville, Maryland and the surrounding areas, ensuring that they can receive the comprehensive support needed for their well-being.

Contact Our Rockville, Maryland Juvenile Immigration Attorneys

The lawyers at Salvado Law Offices provide effective legal representation for minor immigrants and other family members who need to address immigration issues. Our team works to ensure that our clients can achieve the security and stability they deserve. For more information and to set up an initial consultation, call 301-933-1814 or contact us online. In addition to representing clients in Rockville and the surrounding areas in Maryland, we assist with immigration cases in Virginia from our office in Falls Church.