State juvenile and family courts play a uniquely vital role in the federal immigration system, particularly in cases involving noncitizen children and youth who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent. For these children, the first mandatory step in toward securing Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is obtaining a state court order containing factual findings that the child has been abused, abandoned, or neglected. Similarly, when immigrant children and youth have suffered human trafficking, child abuse, sexual assault or other crimes in the United States, Congress empowers judges to issue U visa certifications, which are required before the child or their parent can file for U visa crime victim protections.

Designed specifically for judges, court staff, and child victims’ attorneys, this national webinar discusses best practices that promote just and fair outcomes for vulnerable immigrant children and youth, including swift issuance of well written court orders containing SIJS judicial determinations. Presenters will highlight current policies that impact SIJS eligible children and will explore how obtaining judicial certifications and applying for U visas can enhance safety and protection from deportation for SIJS applicant children. Webinar participants will receive up-to-date resources (e.g., toolkits, bench books, case law, and articles).

Click here to register for this training.

Please submit a short summary or a certificate (if received) to Alexis to receive 1.5 hours of continuing education.