Houston Juvenile Visas
At J. Lopez Law, located in Houston, TX, we are dedicated to helping minors navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration laws. Juvenile Visas are a critical component of immigration relief for children and young adults who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that the best interests of the child are always prioritized.
What is a Juvenile Visa?
Juvenile Visas, often referred to as Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), provide a pathway to lawful permanent residency (a Green Card) for minors under 21 years of age who have been subject to abuse, neglect, or abandonment by one or both parents. This immigration relief is designed to protect vulnerable children and provide them with a safe and stable environment in the United States.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Juvenile Visa, the minor must meet the following criteria:
- Be under 21 years of age and unmarried.
- Have been declared dependent on a juvenile court, or placed under the custody of a state agency, department, or individual by such a court before the age of 18.
- The court must have determined that reunification with one or both parents is not viable due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
- It must be in the best interest of the minor to remain in the United States rather than be returned to their home country.
The SIJS Application Process
- State Court Findings: The process begins in a state juvenile court, where the court issues findings on the minor's eligibility for SIJS, including dependency or custody orders, and determinations regarding parental reunification and the minor's best interests. Must be completed prior to 18 years of age.
- Filing with USCIS: Once the state court order is obtained, the minor can apply for SIJS with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using Form I-360. This step requires detailed documentation, including the state court findings and proof of the child's eligibility.
- Adjustment of Status: After SIJS approval, the next step is to apply for Adjustment of Status to become a lawful permanent resident. This involves filing Form I-485, along with supporting documents such as medical examinations and financial support evidence.
Why Choose J. Lopez Law?
Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially when it involves the well-being of a child. At J. Lopez Law, we have a compassionate and skilled team that understands the sensitive nature of Juvenile Visas. Our attorneys are committed to providing personalized legal services, ensuring that each case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. We strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for both minors and their families. We have also had success with this process and getting visas granted!
Contact Us
If you believe that a minor in your care may be eligible for a Juvenile Visa, contact J. Lopez Law, today. Our team is ready to provide you with the guidance and support needed to protect the future of the child involved. Reach out to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing a safe and stable future for your loved one.
What Sets Us Apart
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Member of American Immigration Lawyers Association
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Client-Centered Advocacy
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Former ICE Experience
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Nearly 30 Years of Combined Experience
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Juvenile Visa, the minor must meet the following criteria:
- Be under 21 years of age and unmarried.
- Have been declared dependent on a juvenile court, or placed under the custody of a state agency, department, or individual by such a court before the age of 18.
- The court must have determined that reunification with one or both parents is not viable due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
- It must be in the best interest of the minor to remain in the United States rather than be returned to their home country.
Why Choose J. Lopez Law?
Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially when it involves the well-being of a child. At J. Lopez Law, we have a compassionate and skilled team that understands the sensitive nature of Juvenile Visas. Our attorneys are committed to providing personalized legal services, ensuring that each case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. We strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for both minors and their families. We have also had success with this process and getting visas granted!
Contact us
If you believe that a minor in your care may be eligible for a Juvenile Visa, contact J. Lopez Law, today. Our team is ready to provide you with the guidance and support needed to protect the future of the child involved. Reach out to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing a safe and stable future for your loved one.
Get started by scheduling an appointment to speak with the Houston immigration attorneys at the firm.
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"I highly recommend her to anyone needing immigration-specific assistance"
Ms. Correro is extremely professional and goes above and beyond for her clients. Her friendly, even nature speaks volumes to her ability to think clearly and act appropriately on behalf of her clients. Her office is clean, efficient and professional - and she is easily accessible when needed. I highly recommend her to anyone needing immigration-specific assistance.
- Jessica C. -
"Excellent lawyer and more importantly a kind hearted person"Jennifer A. Correro is the nicest and most professional attorney that you can ever know. She worked hard for me to get my Citizenship and also to bring my wife from overseas.
Many times I would show up at her office without appointment and she and her assistant Stephanie could turn me away. But they were always accepting and understanding of my stressful situation.
She is an excellent lawyer and more importantly a kind hearted person.
I highly recommend her if you want someone to understand your situation and be there when you need her and fight for you all the way to the state of peace of mind.- Alireza N. -
"I have referred family and friends to her"Do not let her young looks fool you. After having a terrible experience with Jose Vega, i found Jennifer and she exceeded our expectations. Not only does she make you feel welcomed, but also gives you a sense of ease. She loyally stood by our side through the years that courts prolonged the process. I have referred family and friends to her because she is that good. Her and her assistant Maura were just great at responding to our concerns. Thank you guys, we wish you the best ✌- Ferdinand D G.
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"I recommend Jennifer 100%"
Jennifer Lopez is an Awesome Attorney really cares about your case, very professional and super sweet. She also takes her time and is very honest I recommend Jennifer 100%!
- Grizz H. -
"One of the best immigration lawyers"I been Jennifer's client for awhile. She and her staff make me feel welcome and know me by name (they even recognize my voice). I can really tell I am not just a file in storage.
Jennifer is very knowledgeable and she truly wants to help you, but if she cant... she will tell you. I highly recommend her! One of the best immigration lawyers I had the pleasure of interacting with!- Sara D. -
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"Excellent representation"
Jennifer was my sixth lawyer over the span of several years and, for once, I had nothing to worry or complain about. She's really knowledgeable, quick to connect the dots in your case, and creative in her approach - overall, excellent representation.
- Eva P. -
"Jennifer is the best"Jennifer is the best, very knowledgeable, and kind hearted. She truly cares about her clients. I know there are many lawyers around but after a thorough search and reading all her positive reviews, we choose her and she assisted us from the beginning to end. She also helped us with a payment plan & affordable pricing. Thanks Jennifer for all your help and getting my husband his residency.- Jennifer K.
