Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) provides a pathway to lawful permanent residence for undocumented minors who have suffered abuse, abandonment, or neglect by their parents. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), a juvenile court can declare a child dependent, allowing them to qualify for SIJS benefits and federal protection.
Obtaining SIJS grants vital security — including permanent residency, protection from deportation, and the ability to create a stable future in the United States. At American Immigration Law Firm LLP in Monterey Park, California, we assist clients across Los Angeles, throughout California, and internationally. With over two decades of combined legal experience and firsthand immigration knowledge, our team is skilled at handling the complex legal and emotional aspects of these cases.
We offer personalized legal support to every client, communicating fluently in both English and Spanish to serve diverse communities. Our attorneys are committed to strong advocacy before Immigration Courts and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Beyond individual representation, we also engage in community outreach to empower immigrants with essential legal knowledge and awareness of their rights.
To qualify for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, an applicant must meet specific federal criteria. They must be under 21 years old, unmarried, and declared dependent on a juvenile court. Other key factors include immigration history and proof that remaining in the United States is in the child’s best interest. Our experienced lawyers can help evaluate your eligibility and guide you through each stage of the process.
Our firm provides end-to-end guidance through the SIJS application process to ensure all legal steps are handled properly. The general steps include:
After the petition is filed, USCIS reviews the application and may schedule an interview. Our team helps gather all required documents, prepares you for the interview, and provides full support to strengthen your case and protect your rights.
SIJS applications can present challenges such as proving eligibility, coordinating court findings, or facing processing delays. Below are answers to a few common questions:
How long does SIJS processing take?
Processing times can vary from several months to a few years, depending on the USCIS workload and the complexity of your case.
What are the costs for applying for SIJS?
Costs typically include USCIS filing fees for Form I-360 and expenses related to gathering essential records, such as birth or court documents.
Can I apply for SIJS while in removal proceedings?
Yes, individuals in removal proceedings may still apply for SIJS. However, strategic legal planning is essential. Our attorneys can help coordinate the timing, file necessary motions, and pursue relief to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you or your child may be eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, take action today. Contact American Immigration Law Firm LLP at 323-805-0445 or reach us through our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Our experienced immigration attorneys will evaluate your case and guide you toward legal protection and a more stable future in the United States.
Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida
Bowling Greend State University, Bowling Green, Ohio
Juliette Potter is a highly accomplished United States Immigration Attorney with over two decades of legal experience. She began her legal journey as a Barrister in the United Kingdom and was later admitted as an Attorney-at-Law in Antigua and Barbuda before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.
Ms. Potter’s academic background is equally distinguished. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Florida International University College of Law, a Bachelor of Laws (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, and a Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica. She also earned a Master’s degree in Organization Development from Bowling Green State University’s College of Business in Ohio.
Her professional experience spans both the corporate and legal worlds. Before entering private immigration practice, she served as Chief Legal Officer for an international group of companies. Today, she is a Licensed Attorney in the State of New York, representing clients before the Federal Immigration Courts of the United States, while also maintaining her active law license in Antigua and Barbuda.
As an immigrant herself, Ms. Potter brings a unique perspective and deep empathy to her practice. Her personal experiences inspire her unwavering commitment to helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law with confidence and care.
Outside the courtroom, Ms. Potter enjoys cooking, traveling, and exploring new cuisines — passions that reflect her appreciation for diversity and global cultures, both in life and in law.
