Special Immigration Attorney in DC & VA

What if sending a child back to their home country would put them in danger? What if they have been abandoned, abused, or neglected and have nowhere safe to return to? If a child is undocumented and living in the U.S. without a clear path forward, they may qualify for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)—a way to gain legal residency and build a safer future.

At Palacio Law, PLLC, we help children and young adults in Virginia through the SIJS process, so they get the legal protection they deserve. 

Hablamos Español—we are here to guide Spanish-speaking families every step of the way.

Who Qualifies for SIJS?

SIJS is designed to help children and young adults under 21 who cannot reunite with one or both parents due to:

• Abuse – Physical, emotional, or psychological harm by a parent

• Neglect – A parent failing to provide basic care, food, shelter, or safety

• Abandonment – A parent leaving the child without support or contact

• Other unsafe conditions – If returning to their home country would put them at risk

If a child has no safe home to return to and meets these conditions, they may qualify for SIJS—and eventually a Green Card (lawful permanent residency).

Why Getting SIJS Matters

Getting lawful permanent residency through SIJS means:

• No fear of deportation – They can stay in the U.S. legally

• Work authorization – They can apply for a work permit and support themselves

• Access to education – They may qualify for in-state tuition and other benefits

• A path to citizenship – After five years as a Green Card holder, they can apply for U.S. citizenship

SIJS gives security, stability, and opportunity to children and young adults who would otherwise be left without legal options.

How the SIJS Process Works

Applying for SIJS takes two main steps:

State Court Order – A family court or juvenile court must determine that the child cannot be reunited with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The court also must find that staying in the U.S. is in the child’s best interest.

Immigration Petition – After getting the court order, we file the SIJS application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved, the child can apply for a Green Card (lawful permanent residency).

The process can take time, but starting early is critical—especially because SIJS has no age exceptions once someone turns 21.

Common Challenges in the SIJS Process

Applying for SIJS is not always easy. The process involves both state family courts and federal immigration authorities, and each step must be handled carefully. Some common challenges include:

• Getting the right court order – The wording and findings in the court order must meet SIJS requirements, or the case may be denied.

• Delays in the immigration process – SIJS applications can take time, and some categories have backlogs that delay Green Card approval.

• Age limits and timing – If a child turns 21 before completing the process, they may lose eligibility. Starting the case early is critical.

Working with an experienced Virginia immigration attorney ensures that each step is done correctly and on time, improving the chances of success.

Can SIJS Help If the Child Is Already in Deportation Proceedings?

Yes. If a child is already in removal (deportation) proceedings, SIJS can provide a defense against deportation. Immigration courts recognize SIJS as a valid way for minors to remain in the U.S. legally.

If a child qualifies for SIJS, an attorney can request to close the deportation case while the SIJS petition is processed. If granted, the child can then apply for a Green Card without fear of being removed from the country.

Every case is different, and the best approach depends on the child’s immigration history and court status. That is why having an experienced attorney is so important.

Why Choose Palacio Law, PLLC?

• Experienced in SIJS Cases – We know how to navigate both the family court and immigration system.

• One-on-One Representation – You work directly with Edwin Palacio, not a junior lawyer.

• Spanish-Speaking Legal Help – Hablamos Español, so you can understand every step.

• Compassionate and Committed – We fight for immigrant children because their future matters.

• Flat Fees – Our immigration law team works for you for a rate you know from the start.

Take the First Step – Contact Palacio Law, PLLC Today

If your child cannot safely return home, they may have a legal path to stay in the U.S. Do not wait—the sooner we begin, the better their chances. Reach out now for a consultation.