Herndon DACA & Special Immigrant Juvenile Lawyers

Legal Support for DACA and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

Navigating U.S. immigration laws can be a complex process for anyone, but for minors, immigration issues can be particularly challenging. People who came to the United States as children or minors who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment by their parents or guardians may be unsure about their legal options. Even if they seek relief, they may face concerns about deportation or other issues that could affect them and their families. Fortunately, there are specific programs and provisions in immigration laws that are designed to protect minors and provide them with pathways to lawful status in the U.S.

At Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC, our Herndon, Virginia immigration lawyers provide guidance and representation for minors and other family members. We can explain the options that may be available, and we can provide effective legal representation throughout the immigration process. We will work to ensure that minors and other immigrants can protect their safety and continue living and working in the United States.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Many undocumented immigrants originally entered the United States as children. The possibility of deportation can be especially worrisome for these immigrants and their families, since they may have no memories of living in other countries, they may not speak languages other than English, and they will not want to be uprooted from the lives they have built. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was established to protect these immigrants. It has provided protection against deportation for people who came to the U.S. when they were younger than 16 years old, have resided in the country since 2007, and met other requirements. Immigrants who receive DACA protections will not be subject to deportation proceedings, and they can typically receive authorization to work for U.S. employers.

The DACA program has been terminated due to court decisions, and no new applications for DACA are being processed. However, people who have been granted DACA status in the past may apply for renewals. Our attorneys can ensure that renewal applications and any other required documentation are submitted within the proper time limits, ensuring that immigrants can continue to live and work in the U.S.

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

In some cases, minor immigrants may be the victims of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and they may receive protection to ensure that they can remain in the U.S. When a child has become involved in a juvenile court case, they may receive Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status, which will allow them to qualify for a Green Card. To qualify for SIJ, a minor must be under the age of 21 and unmarried, and they must have a juvenile court order that declares they cannot be reunified with their parents because of issues related to abandonment, neglect, or abuse. The juvenile court must also declare that returning to their country of origin would not be in a minor's best interest. In most states of the American nation, such as Virginia, the court order must be granted before the minor turns 18, so it is very important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Once Special Immigrant Juvenile status is granted, a minor may also be granted deferred action in any deportation cases that may arise while they are waiting for an immigrant visa to become available. Once an immigrant visa is available, a minor can apply for a Green Card through an Adjustment of Status.

Contact Our Herndon, Virginia Immigration Lawyers for Minors

Minors who are facing immigration issues can benefit by receiving legal assistance from a skilled attorney, especially when they have limited resources or have been the victims of abuse or neglect. At Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC, our knowledgeable lawyers are here to provide minors and their family members with effective legal guidance, helping them navigate their immigration journeys safely and successfully. Whether assisting with DACA renewals or applying for Special Immigrant Juvenile status, we are committed to providing compassionate support for our clients and ensuring that they can pursue opportunities fore education and employment. Please contact us today by calling 571-441-2233 and arranging a free consultation.