Baltimore Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Attorneys
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status is a legal process that grants certain immigrant children under the age of 21 the opportunity to obtain lawful immigration status within the U.S. The application for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status can feel overwhelming when faced alone.
However, at Griffith Immigration Law, we can provide you with the necessary assistance. Our dedicated team is committed to supporting our clients and is driven by a passion for what we do. With a team of immigrant and first-generation lawyers and staff, we bring a wealth of knowledge, determination, and care to every case we handle.
To learn more, call our special immigrant juvenile status lawyers in Baltimore, MD, at (410) 883-9157 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.
What Is Special Immigrant Juvenile Status?
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is an immigration classification that offers a pathway to legal permanent residence in the U.S. for undocumented immigrants aged 21 and under who may have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment by one or both parents. SIJS provides a means for young immigrants to seek and obtain the security and stability they deserve in the U.S.
What are the Requirements for SIJS?
To qualify for consideration, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- The applicant must be below the age of 21.
- The applicant must be unmarried.
- The applicant must have been declared dependent by a juvenile court.
- Reunification with one or both parents must no longer be a viable option due to instances of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or similar circumstances as defined by state law.
- It must be determined that it is not in the best interests of the minor to return to their country of nationality or last habitual residence.
It is important to work with a knowledgeable and experienced SIJS attorney who can offer legal advice and skillfully guide you through the complex process of obtaining SIJS. They can help you throughout the application process, translate legal jargon, and much more.
SIJS Benefits
SIJS offers a wide range of benefits and opportunities to eligible individuals.
Key benefits of SIJS:
- SIJS provides a legal pathway to permanent residency. This means that successful applicants can acquire a green card.
- This status allows for legal work, study, and residence in the U.S. With employment authorization, young people can have economic independence.
- Undocumented minors can also apply for SIJS. This is a critical benefit for those who entered the country without proper documentation.
- SIJS offers opportunities for education, cultural learning, and language skill improvement, paving the way for a better life for individuals and even their families.
How Long Does It Take to Get SIJS?
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) typically renders decisions on Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) petitions within a timeframe of 180 days, which is approximately six months, starting from the official filing date.
If your SIJ petition is approved by the USCIS, you will receive an approval notice. However, in the event of a denial of your SIJ petition, the USCIS will provide you with a comprehensive written decision explaining the reasons behind the denial and offering guidance on how you can pursue an appeal to challenge the decision.
Contact Griffith Immigration Law
Have questions? Or are you ready to begin the SIJS process? Contact our SIJS lawyers at Griffith Immigration Law. At our firm, every member you'll interact with has their own unique immigration experience, which fuels our deep passion for our clients.
We are committed to providing personalized legal services to cater to our client's unique and specific needs. Additionally, we understand the importance of convenience and accessibility, which is why we proudly offer virtual consultations to streamline the process and make it even more convenient for our clients. Trust Griffith Immigration Law to provide you with effective and timely legal guidance.
Get in touch with our Baltimore, MD, SIJS attorneys by dialing (410) 883-9157 or sending us a message online to schedule a meeting.
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"Great Job"
Great job helping me through my immigration process. He is always ready and available to address any questions or concerns.- Ardita E. -
"He Is A Genius!"
To Mr. Griffith and his amazing team... thank you so much for going above and beyond! HE IS A GENIUS!!!!!- Sim R. -
"The Very Best People"
He's the best immigration lawyer that I have ever known, along with his hardworking team.- Sher P. -
"Best in the Business!"
Ray is the best in the business. He is clear, straight to the point, and extremely knowledgeable.- Thania S. -
"Highly Professional"
Attorney Raymond Griffith and his team are amazing. He responds to your questions/concerns right away.- Maria R. -
"Very Satisfied"
Raymond Griffith was very attentive... I left the consultation with a clear vision of what steps to take next. Very satisfied.- Elmar M. -
"5 Stars is Not Enough"
Why am I giving a 5-star review? That’s only because I can’t give any more stars to Mr. Raymond Griffith and his team.- Franco P. -
"Incredibly Responsive"
Mr. Griffith and his team are amazing!! I have never texted or emailed a business and gotten such quick responses.- Sandrene M.