A was abandoned by his father when he was five and has reunited with his aunt, a second mom. ...

  • Client Location: East Elmhurst
  • Type of Relief: Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

CLOSED

Facts: A is a 17-year-old native of Honduras who came to the U.S. to reunite with his aunt and to escape violence in his community. A grew up being raised by a single mother after his father abandoned the family when A was five. A's father moved to the U.S. when A was young and would contact the family only a few times per year. Eventually, his infrequent communication became even less. A's father now lives in another state with a new family and has very limited contact with A. A suspects that this is the reason why his father has not been involved in his life throughout the years. By contrast, A's aunt communicated with him several times per week throughout his childhood and financially supported A's education in Honduras. A views his aunt as a second mother; she has been his primary caretaker - financially and emotionally - for years. A has a wonderful relationship with his aunt; in her home, he feels safe and supported. 

Legal Assessment: A is in removal proceedings and is eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), a visa for children who have been abused, abandoned or neglected by a parent. This status will allow A to remain in the U.S. with his aunt and cousins. A needs a dedicated pro bono volunteer advocate to help him fight his case before the local family court and the Immigration Court. Catholic Charities recommends that this case be handled by a PBVA with some prior experience in SIJS matters.

A is a Spanish speaking client.

 

Topics:
  • Family
  • Immigrant Children
  • Estimated Time Commitment (Hours)
    • < 5
    • 5-10
    • 10-20
    • > 20
    • unknown
  • Mentor Available
  • Free Volunteer Training
  • Organization Provides Malpractice Insurance
  • Case Level / Appropriate For
    Beginner, Intermediate
  • Skills Developed
    Administrative hearing, Case Management, Client advice and counseling, Client/witness interviewing, Legal research & writing
  • Venue where case will be heard
    USCIS, Queens County Family Court, Immigration Court
  • Additional Volunteers Needed
    Mentor, Other: Interpreter