For decades, Special Immigrant Juvenile (S.I.J.) status protected certain undocumented young migrants who could demonstrate that they had been abused or neglected by at least one parent. Beginning in 2022, under President Biden, migrants granted S.I.J. status were informed right away whether they would be protected from deportation through an immigration classification known as deferred action. Those who received deferred action were allowed to apply for work permits while waiting for a pathway to permanent residency.
In April, however, officials in the Trump administration quietly stopped issuing deferred action designations and instead began deporting holders of S.I.J. status with little notice and no opportunity to appeal.
Advocates argued that the government violated the law by ending the policy without proper notice or justification, leaving thousands of immigrant youths in legal limbo and vulnerable to deportation.
Joel’s Story
Joel is a recipient of S.I.J. status. He was detained for three weeks following the policy change. A coalition of immigrant advocates filed a federal class-action lawsuit in the Eastern District of New York challenging the new policy. In late November two days after Joel’s hearing, a judge granted the plaintiffs a partial victory. It ordered the government to temporarily halt the policy, though no compliance deadline was set. A final ruling has yet to be issued.
Talk to an Immigration Attorney Today
Reeves Immigration Law Group has served immigrants and their loved ones for over 40 years, achieving success in some of the most difficult cases. Our team of immigration attorneys will stand by your side and fight for you to achieve your select goals and protect your rights.
As legislative decisions continue to change, contact us today to speak to one of our immigration attorneys so we can find the solution best for you.
