Types of Relief
Common Forms of Relief (Youth DEPT)
The Legal Program for Unaccompanied Immigrant Minor Children is a vital resource designed to provide specialized legal assistance to children who arrive in the United States without a parent or guardian. These minors often flee dire circumstances such as violence, abuse, neglect, or persecution in their home countries, leaving them particularly vulnerable within the complex U.S. immigration system. The program offers comprehensive legal services tailored to address their unique needs, including representation in immigration court, assistance with asylum claims, and petitions for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). SIJS is a critical form of relief that allows eligible children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected to obtain lawful permanent residency. By providing skilled legal counsel, the program ensures these children can access protections available under U.S. law while safeguarding their rights and well-being.
In addition to SIJS and asylum cases, the program also helps unaccompanied minors pursue other forms of humanitarian relief, such as U visas, T visas, and protections under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). U visas are available to immigrant victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting those crimes. Similarly, T visas provide protection for survivors of human trafficking. For minors who are victims of domestic violence or abuse by a family member, VAWA offers a pathway to self-petition for legal status independently of their abuser. By guiding children through these intricate processes, the program empowers them to secure safety and stability while holding perpetrators accountable and contributing to broader efforts against exploitation and violence.
Beyond individual case representation, the Legal Program plays an essential role in advocating for systemic change and raising awareness about the challenges faced by unaccompanied immigrant children. Through partnerships with community organizations, social service providers, and policymakers, the program addresses not only the legal but also the social and emotional needs of these minors. This holistic approach ensures they receive access to education, healthcare, housing, and mental health support during their transition. Furthermore, the program engages in public education campaigns and policy advocacy to promote reforms that strengthen protections for vulnerable youth within the immigration system. By championing the rights of unaccompanied children through direct services and systemic advocacy, the program upholds principles of justice, compassion, and equity, fostering a brighter future for some of the most marginalized individuals in our society.
Relief Pages
- SAPCR/SIJS
- Asylum
- U/T Visa
- VAWA