Also known as SIJ status is an immigration classification for certain foreign children present in the United States who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents. Unlike other immigration routes SIJ cases can usually be accomplished within 3 to 4 months. Children may be eligible if they are the subject of a juvenile court order that makes certain findings regarding:
- Their court ordered custody, placement or dependency
- Parental Reunification is not possible
- What is the best interest for the child
If SIJ status is granted the child may now be eligible to receive lawful permanent residence also known as a green card.
Are you or a child you know eligible…
- Be under the age of 21 at the time of filing
- Be unmarried (either never married or previously married but ended in divorce, annulment, or death)
- Be in the United States
- Have an order from a juvenile court that makes three of the following findings
- Dependent/Custody- declares the child dependent on the court
- Parental Reunification- reunification with one or both parents is not possible due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment
- Best Interest- It would not be in the best interest of the child to return to their home country
Supporting Documentation
- The child’s birth certificate
- Certified copy of the court order
- US Department of Health and Human Services Consent
If you are relative of an unaccompanied child or know someone who is a relative of an unaccompanied child that would like to seek custody and wish to speak to an attorneyy, contact Detzky, Hunter & DeFillippo, LLC. today.
Detzky, Hunter & DeFillippo, LLC is an experienced law firm that has proudly served clients across New Jersey for decades from their convenient locations in Freehold and Somerville. If you need strong legal guidance, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We are lawyers who listen, counselors who care.
