At Cristea & Tatti Law Firm, we understand that for many children, the immigration process is not just about legal status—it’s about safety, protection, and a chance for a better life. Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status is a form of relief available to children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both parents and who need protection in the United States. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the SIJ process, ensuring that children in need of safety are able to secure a stable future.
✔ Eligibility Determination – We assist in evaluating whether a child qualifies for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status based on the requirements, including abuse, abandonment, or neglect by one or both parents, as well as the need for protection in the U.S.
✔ Filing the SIJ Petition – Our team helps prepare and file the SIJ petition (Form I-360) on behalf of the child. We ensure that all required documentation, including court orders, is submitted properly and in a timely manner to support the child’s case.
✔ Family Court Orders – A critical component of the SIJ process is obtaining a family court order that finds the child eligible for SIJ status. We work closely with your family court and provide expert guidance to help ensure that the order is in line with SIJ requirements.
✔ USCIS I-360 Petition – After securing the proper Family Court order, we file Form I-360 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition formally requests Special Immigrant Juvenile Status based on the findings of the court. We ensure all supporting documents are properly submitted and handle communications with USCIS throughout the process.
✔ Adjustment of Status (Green Card) – Once SIJ status is granted, we help children adjust their status to lawful permanent resident (green card holder) status. We guide the child through the process of obtaining their green card and ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed and filed accurately.
✔ Appeals and Denials – If an SIJ petition or application is denied, we offer comprehensive representation in appealing the decision. We examine the grounds for denial and work diligently to rectify the situation by providing the appropriate legal arguments and additional evidence.
✔ Protection from Deportation – While the SIJ petition is pending, children may be protected from deportation, which gives them time to build a future in the U.S. Our team ensures that the child’s status remains protected throughout the process.
Our attorneys specialize in SIJ cases and have a deep understanding of the laws and procedures involved in securing Special Immigrant Juvenile Status.
From obtaining the necessary family court orders to filing the SIJ petition and adjusting status, we provide comprehensive services to ensure that the child’s case is handled efficiently and successfully.
We have helped numerous children obtain Special Immigrant Juvenile Status and secure the protection and stability they deserve in the United States. Our team will advocate for the child every step of the way.
A highly experienced immigration and family court attorney with a client-centered approach and a deep commitment to securing justice for individuals navigating complex legal challenges. Michael personally reviews your case and explains your options clearly.
We have gathered important information that could be helpful for you. If you can’t find what you are looking for, contact us.
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status is immigration protection available to undocumented children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents. To qualify, the child must be under 21, unmarried, and have a state juvenile court order finding that return to their home country is not in their best interest. The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti guides families through the SIJ process from state court findings to federal immigration approval.
State family or juvenile courts must issue findings that the child has been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents; that reunification with at least one parent is not viable; and that return to the home country is not in the child’s best interest. The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti works alongside the family court process and prepares the documentation needed to support these findings before petitioning USCIS for SIJ classification.
Once the required state court findings are in place, The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti prepares and files Form I-360 with USCIS along with all required supporting documentation. After I-360 approval, if a visa is immediately available, we assist the child in applying for lawful permanent residence. We guide clients through every step of the process to ensure accuracy, completeness, and the strongest possible outcome.
Yes. A child must be under 21 at the time of filing the I-360 petition with USCIS. State court jurisdiction over the underlying custody or dependency order may also have different age cutoffs depending on the state. The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti advises families on these time-sensitive eligibility windows and works quickly to preserve a child’s SIJ eligibility before they age out of the classification, which cannot be recovered once lost.
SIJ-based green card holders face important limitations. A person who received SIJ status cannot petition for their parents to immigrate, as SIJ is specifically designed for children harmed by parental abuse, neglect, or abandonment. However, they may petition for qualifying siblings and, once naturalized as U.S. citizens, for additional family members. The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti advises SIJ holders on all available family-based immigration options.
At The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti, we’re committed to providing trusted legal guidance with compassion, integrity, and expertise. Whether you’re seeking help with a family matter, immigration issue, or another legal concern, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Provide your details and legal concerns, and our team will review your case to offer the best possible guidance and support.
The Law Office of Cristea & Tatti offers immigration help & deportation defense in the tri-state area—see our full list of services.
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150 Motor Parkway, Suite 401, Hauppauge, NY 11788
3663 Route 112, Suite 2, Coram, NY 11727
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently, and the content on this site may not reflect the most current legal developments. You should consult with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific situation before making any legal decisions. Viewing this website or contacting our firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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