Special Immigrant Juveniles
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Special Immigrant Juvenile Attorneys in Massachusetts
Protecting Vulnerable Children Through Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
Children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by their parents face unique challenges when it comes to immigration. Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status is a humanitarian protection designed to help these vulnerable minors stay in the United States and pursue a better life. However, the process for obtaining SIJ status is complex, requiring careful documentation and legal representation.
At Castel & Hall, LLP, our Massachusetts Special Immigrant Juvenile attorneys are committed to helping children who have suffered abuse, neglect, or abandonment obtain legal status. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and offer compassionate, skilled representation to guide you through every step of the process.
Contact us online or call 617-716-6464 today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help secure your child’s future.
What is Special Immigrant Juvenile Status?
Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status is a form of immigration relief available to children who have been subjected to abuse, neglect, or abandonment by one or both parents. SIJ status allows minors to apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card) in the U.S., providing them with protection from deportation and the opportunity to build a better life.
To qualify for SIJ status, a child must meet the following requirements:
Be under the age of 21.
Have been declared dependent on a juvenile court or be in the custody of a state agency or individual.
Have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents.
The juvenile court must issue a ruling that it is not in the child’s best interest to return to their home country.
The Special Immigrant Juvenile Process
The process of obtaining Special Immigrant Juvenile status typically involves the following steps:
Petitioning the Juvenile Court: The first step in obtaining SIJ status is to seek a court order in the appropriate state juvenile court. The court must determine that the child has been abused, neglected, or abandoned and that it is not in the child’s best interest to return to their home country.
Filing the SIJ Petition with USCIS: After receiving the court order, we will help you file the Special Immigrant Juvenile petition (Form I-360) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Adjustment of Status: If the SIJ petition is approved, the child may then apply for a green card (adjustment of status) to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Final Approval: Once the child has obtained lawful permanent residency, they can remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
The process is complicated, and there are many nuances that can impact a child’s case. Our experienced attorneys are here to ensure all legal requirements are met and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Common Challenges in Special Immigrant Juvenile Cases
While SIJ status provides critical protection, there are common challenges that can arise during the process, including:
Jurisdictional Issues: Determining which state juvenile court has jurisdiction to make the required findings can sometimes be complex.
Inadequate Documentation: Proper documentation, including proof of abuse, neglect, or abandonment, is essential. Insufficient evidence may delay or derail a case.
Family Situations: Navigating family dynamics, especially if one parent is involved in the case, can complicate the process.
Age Limitations: SIJ status is only available to individuals under the age of 21, so timing can be a critical factor in these cases.
At Castel & Hall, LLP, we are well-versed in handling these challenges and will work tirelessly to protect the interests of your child and help them obtain the legal status they deserve.
Why Choose Castel & Hall, LLP for Your Special Immigrant Juvenile Case?
When dealing with Special Immigrant Juvenile cases, it’s crucial to have experienced legal counsel by your side. At Castel & Hall, LLP, we offer:
Extensive Experience with SIJ Cases: Our team has a deep understanding of the SIJ process and has successfully represented many children seeking this important protection.
Compassionate and Personalized Representation: We treat every client with the care and respect they deserve, recognizing the sensitive nature of these cases.
Aggressive Advocacy: We fight for the rights of vulnerable children, ensuring that every legal avenue is pursued to secure their future in the United States.
Contact Our Massachusetts Special Immigrant Juvenile Attorneys Today
Special Immigrant Juvenile cases can be emotionally and legally complex, but with the right support, children can find hope and a pathway to safety. The experienced attorneys at Castel & Hall, LLP are dedicated to helping children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned obtain lawful permanent residency.
Call us at 617-716-6464 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Let us guide you through the process of securing SIJ status for your child.
Why Wait? Help Your Child Find a Safe Future Today
Don’t let legal barriers keep your child from finding safety and security in the United States. Contact Castel & Hall, LLP today and begin the process of securing Special Immigrant Juvenile status for your child.
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