Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status Lawyer in Houston, TX
Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status is a form of immigration relief created by Congress to protect undocumented immigrant children in the United States who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected. This pathway offers eligible minors the opportunity to obtain lawful permanent residency—and eventually U.S. citizenship—through a compassionate legal framework that considers the best interests of the child.
SIJ status involves a complex, two-part process requiring coordination between state juvenile courts and federal immigration authorities. Unlike traditional visa categories, SIJ status demands both family law and immigration law knowledge. At Mokolo Law Firm, our attorneys bring experience in both areas, allowing us to represent the child through every legal step—from court proceedings to USCIS filings—without the need for separate legal teams.
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To qualify for SIJ status, a child must be under the age of 21, unmarried, and currently present in the United States. The child must also be the subject of a state court order finding that they cannot reunify with one or both parents due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and that returning to their home country would not be in their best interest. Once the court order is obtained, an application can be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for SIJ classification.
Our firm works closely with child welfare agencies, guardians, foster families, and juvenile courts to ensure the state-level findings meet federal immigration requirements. We then handle the USCIS petition and support the child throughout the green card process. This legal protection can change the trajectory of a young person’s life, offering them safety, stability, and a path to a secure future in the United States.
Why Choose Mokolo Law Firm for SIJ Status Cases in Houston?
Children who qualify for SIJ status often face some of the most vulnerable situations in immigration law. At Mokolo Law Firm, we approach each case with sensitivity, urgency, and deep knowledge of the intersecting laws involved. Our ability to handle both the family court and immigration components means children and their guardians benefit from unified legal representation and reduced stress throughout the process.
We are dedicated to ensuring that no eligible child falls through the cracks. Whether the child is in foster care, living with a relative, or facing deportation proceedings, our team is equipped to help secure protection and lawful status through this powerful legal remedy.
Frequently Asked Questions – Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJ)
What is SIJ status?
Special Immigrant Juvenile status is an immigration classification for undocumented children in the U.S. who cannot reunite with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, or similar circumstances. It offers a path to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.
Who qualifies for SIJ?
Children under 21 who are unmarried, physically present in the U.S., and have a qualifying juvenile court order may be eligible. The order must state that reunification with one or both parents is not viable and that returning to the child’s home country is not in their best interest.
Is there a deadline for applying?
There’s no formal deadline, but children must apply before turning 21. However, the earlier you begin the process, the better—especially since court timelines and USCIS processing can vary.
Does SIJ status lead to a Green Card?
Yes. Once granted SIJ status, the child may apply for lawful permanent residency (Green Card) without needing a family or employment sponsor.
What’s the difference between SIJ and asylum?
While both offer protection, SIJ is based on state court findings of abuse or neglect and doesn’t require proving fear of persecution like asylum. In some cases, a child may qualify for both forms of relief.
Can Mokolo Law Firm handle both the state court and immigration process?
Yes. Our attorneys are experienced in both Texas family law and federal immigration law, allowing us to represent clients through the full SIJ process—from juvenile court orders to USCIS petitions.