Trusted Special Immigration Juvenile Status Attorney in Long Island
Children of immigrants who require protection from the U.S. juvenile court due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect by a parent may be eligible for Special Immigration Juvenile Status (SIJ). This enables them to become lawful permanent residents of the United States and obtain a green card.
Obtaining SIJS approval requires a level of understanding of both state and federal laws. To work toward the best possible outcome for your case, Olivier E. Roche, the trusted immigration lawyer in Long Island, is at your service. As a prosecutor turned attorney, he knows the ins and outs of Immigration Court processes, and he can be relied on to assist you with your case.
Why Should I Apply for SIJS?
With SIJ status, youth immigrants will be able to:
- Obtain permanent residency
- Legally work anywhere in the U.S.
- Freely travel to and fro the U.S.
- Get financial aid for college
- Be eligible for public benefits such as Medicaid, Public Assistance, and Public Housing
In addition to these benefits, the grant waives certain immigration violations that would otherwise prevent the child from obtaining permanent lawful residency in the U.S. This includes working without authorization, illegal entry, and public charge status.
Eligibility Requirements
For a minor to qualify for SIJS, they must be able to meet the following criteria:
- They must be under 21 years old at the time of filing the SIJS petition
- They must be unmarried and have never been divorced or annulled
- They must be declared dependent in a juvenile court. Additionally, the Family Court, Surrogate’s, or Supreme Court should take jurisdiction over your petition
- Reuniting with one or both of your parents is not possible due to abuse, abandonment, neglect, or failure to plan.
- It is not in your best interests to return to your country of origin
For Minors in Foster Care
Children who are in foster care may seek assistance from their agency and the NYC Administration for Children’s Services. This is the City’s child welfare agency committed to protecting children and providing childcare. Likewise, the foster agency should connect the minor to a legal services provider who can assess their needs and assist them with the application process.
How to Apply for SIJS
The application process for Special Immigration Juvenile Status involves two stages. First, a proceeding (such as adoption, custody, or guardianship) will be held at the Family or Surrogate’s Court in the county where the minor lives. During this time, the minor must also secure a “special findings order” declaring their eligibility for SIJS.
Second, once an order has been issued by the Family or Surrogate’s Court, the child may file an application for SIJS with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).
Do I Need an Immigration Attorney in Long Island?
While obtaining a court order from the state court is easy, getting approval from immigration may involve some risks. For this reason, having a knowledgeable attorney specializing in Immigration Juvenile Status in Long Island is highly recommended.
As the attorney to your case, Olivier E. Roche ensures that your petition is filed correctly and all requirements have been met. He’ll guide you in every step of the process, from applying to preparing for the court proceedings.
Get legal services from an experienced and compassionate lawyer. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
