Compassionate Legal Representation For Unaccompanied Children
Last updated on August 19, 2024
Unaccompanied migrant children are exceedingly vulnerable, especially when facing removal proceedings, foster care placement or entering the juvenile justice system. However, many of these children may apply for lawful immigration status.
At Marigold Law Center, our knowledgeable attorneys provide compassionate assistance to unaccompanied children. We collaborate with skilled paralegals and family case managers, provide free family case management for every client and facilitate access to vital community services. With offices in Hyattsville, Maryland, and Los Angeles, California, we help people nationwide navigate complex immigration issues.
Special Immigrant Juvenile Petitions
Unaccompanied migrant children have several options to receive lawful immigration status. These include:
- Special immigrant juvenile status: SIJS can lead to green cards for immigrant children who have been abused, abandoned or neglected by one or both parents.
- U nonimmigrant status: The U visa protects migrants victimized by crimes, including children who suffer mental or physical abuse while in the U.S.
- Violence Against Women Act: Under VAWA, children abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent or spouse may qualify for lawful immigration status.
- Asylum: Children whose health or safety may be jeopardized by returning to their home country may qualify for this protected status.
Our lawyers, trained in both immigration and family law issues, provide affordable legal services to all migrants, including unaccompanied children, victims of domestic violence and human trafficking and families with children who have special needs or disabilities.
How Unaccompanied Minor Immigrants Can Become Citizens
The path to citizenship for unaccompanied minor immigrants is complex but achievable. After obtaining legal status through options like Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), U visa, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) or asylum, a minor can typically apply for a green card. This first step is crucial, as it provides lawful permanent residency in the United States.
Once they have held a green card for at least five years and have turned 18, they may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. This process involves several key steps:
- Continuous U.S. residency as a green card holder for five years
- Physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months within the past five years
- Good moral character during the required period
- Basic English proficiency (reading, writing, speaking and understanding)
- Passing U.S. history and government tests
- Oath of Allegiance to the United States
Throughout this journey, legal guidance is a key necessity to help cover all the complicated immigration laws.
How To Sponsor An Unaccompanied Minor Immigrant
Sponsoring an unaccompanied minor immigrant is a significant responsibility that requires careful consideration and preparation. Potential sponsors, who may be parents, legal guardians or other adult relatives (and, in some cases, unrelated adults), must undergo a rigorous vetting process. Key matters revolving around sponsorship include:
- Background checks and screening for child abuse and neglect
- Demonstrating financial ability to provide for the child’s basic needs
- Helping ensure the child’s attendance at immigration court proceedings
- Committing to care for the child until adulthood or case resolution
- Facilitating access to education, health care and other essential services
In certain situations, such as when the sponsor is not a close relative or there are particular safety concerns, additional requirements may be imposed. These could include more frequent check-ins with caseworkers or participation in support programs. In that case, sponsors must be prepared to comply with any legal commitment related to the child’s immigration status. With all the long procedures at hand, a reputable legal team can handle the entire process for the best possible outcome for the child.
Call Us To Seek Legal Relief For Unaccompanied Children
The compassionate and experienced attorneys, paralegals and family case managers at Marigold Law Center work tirelessly to ensure effective legal representation at a reasonable cost. Call us today toll free at 323-714-0195 or email us to schedule a free consultation.