Facts:  R is a 19 year old native of Mexico who entered the U.S. with his mother when he was a toddler.  R's father, who had abused his mother in the past, followed R and his mother to the U.S., but the relationship ended and R’s mother raised R alone. R’s father did not participate in R's life or provide for him financially.  When R was about 12, his dad was deported, and he has had no meaningful contact with him since that time. R has temporary status which remains tenuous under ongoing litigation regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA program.  R was granted DACA at the age of 15 and has consistently renewed it.  R is working to complete his GED and hopes to attend a local community college.

Legal assessment:  R is eligible to remain in the U.S. and needs a committed pro bono volunteer advocate to help him apply for a special visa for abused, abandoned or neglected youth with the family court and immigration authorities.  He will eventually be able to seek lawful permanent residence in the U.S.  

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