Charlotte Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) Lawyer

When juveniles are removed from the custody of their immigrant parents due to neglect or abuse, it can complicate their legal status in this country. Some of these children were brought here illegally, while others relied on sponsorship from their mother or father for a visa.

In order to address this complex situation, the federal government has adopted a legal status for these individuals. A Charlotte Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) lawyer could help with the process. Let a skilled family immigration attorney answer any questions you might have about eligibility.

Benefits of SIJS Status

This program provides a path to lawful permanent residency for minor residents of foreign countries. It may be possible for an applicant to apply for and secure a green card without the help of their parents. This is especially important for those who faced abuse or neglect before being placed into the custody of the government.

This status offers non-citizens a chance to stay in this country, often when they would not otherwise qualify. It can lead to a green card and lawful permanent residency, allowing them to not only live in the U.S. but potentially work here in the future.

Once awarded a green card, the child will also have a path to citizenship. It takes time to qualify, and there are important missteps to avoid along the way. That said, a Charlotte Special Immigrant Juvenile Status attorney could set the stage for a victim of abuse or neglect to make the U.S. their permanent home.

Eligibility Questions

Qualifying for SIJS is not always easy. Before someone is awarded this status, they must meet a number of qualifications. The program is intended for children who have suffered abuse or neglect, so many immigrants will not be eligible.

There is an age requirement to be aware of. Applicants must be under the age of 21 and unmarried. One of the complex aspects of this program is that it works in conjunction with the state courts. A person will only qualify for this federal program if a state-level judge issues an order declaring them dependent on the state. The court must also determine that reunification with their parents is not possible. The reasons why reunification is off the table can vary. It might be because they cannot be found or due to a history of mistreatment.

Finally, the federal government must determine if returning the applicant to their home country is not in their best interest. If there is ample family support in their country of origin, they may not be eligible for SIJS.

Typically the government will look into whether or not anyone is available to provide for them. If a person is over the age of 18, they may consider removal if it appears they are capable of providing for themselves. A Charlotte SIJS lawyer could review these factors and make the case that a return is too dangerous.

Reach Out to a Charlotte SIJS Attorney Today

Living in an unfamiliar country can be challenging for a child under the best of circumstances. It can be especially traumatic for those who have been abandoned or abused by their parents along the way. Thankfully, the federal government has a program designed to protect these children and provide them a home in the United States.

A Charlotte Special Immigration Juvenile Status (SIJS) lawyer is here to answer any questions you might have about the process. Call as soon as possible to learn more.