How ELR Immigration Lawyers Can Help Kids and Teens Facing Immigration Challenges

 

Growing up is hard enough without having to worry about immigration rights for children. Yet thousands of children and teenagers in the United States face questions about their legal status every year. They may have crossed the border alone, fled violence or abuse, or been brought here by their families. Recently, new policies—such as the end of deferred action for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) recipients, new $5,000 fines for unaccompanied minors, and cuts to federal legal services—have made life even more uncertain for young immigrants. Having a knowledgeable and caring lawyer can make all the difference.

 

At ELR Abogados de Inmigración, we believe that children and teens deserve to have an advocate in their corner. Understanding immigration rights for children can be confusing and scary, especially when you are young. Our team works tirelessly to help young clients understand their options, stay safe, and build a brighter future. Here’s how we can help—and why legal representation matters.

 

 

Immigration Rights for Children: Why Legal Representation Matters

 

Navigating immigration court is difficult for adults, let alone kids. Unaccompanied children who appear in court without a lawyer must face a judge and a government attorney alone. Senators pushing for the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act note that immigration judges are nearly 100 times less likely to grant relief to unaccompanied children without counsel than to those with counsel. In early 2025, the Trump administration terminated a federal contract that provided legal services to about 26,000 unaccompanied children, leaving many youth to represent themselves. Without an attorney, children are far more vulnerable to deportation, trafficking, and exploitation.

 

Having a lawyer helps children navigate immigration rights for kids and teens and increases their chances of staying safely in the U.S. Legal counsel can explain complex rules, prepare children for hearings, gather evidence, and advocate for their best interests. According to child-advocacy research, unrepresented children appear in court and win asylum far less often than those with representation. In short, a skilled attorney can completely transform a child’s future.

 

 

How ELR Supports Kids and Teens

 

At ELR, we guide families through the immigration process to ensure every child understands their immigration rights for children. Our team ensures that every client understands their immigration rights for children. Here are some of the ways we can help:

 

How ELR Supports Immigration Rights for Children in Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

 

We guide clients through the SIJ process—from obtaining the required state court order to filing immigration paperwork. SIJS is for youth under 21 who cannot live with one or both parents because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. With SIJS, a child can apply for a green card and eventually become a U.S. citizen. We make sure applications are filed before age deadlines and help gather the evidence needed.

 

Asylum and Humanitarian Protection

 

For children fleeing persecution or violence, asylum may provide a path to safety. We listen to your story, document your fears, and represent you before USCIS or an immigration judge. Our attorneys also explore other humanitarian options such as U visas for crime victims, T visas for trafficking survivors, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for those from designated countries.

 

Deferred Action and Work Permits

 

Although USCIS ended automatic deferred action for SIJ youth, some children may still qualify for other forms of deferred action or parole. We assess eligibility and help file requests so minors can stay in the U.S. legally and obtain work authorization.

 

Defending Immigrant Rights for Children in Court

 

If you or your child receives a notice to appear in immigration court, we will stand by your side. Our team prepares legal briefs, represents clients at hearings, and fights to stop removal. We know that being sent back can put children’s lives at risk, so we advocate fiercely for every form of relief available.

 

Family-Based Options

 

When parents or relatives are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, there may be family-based paths to status. We help file petitions, navigate the visa bulletin, and work to keep families together.

 

School, Foster Care, and Community Support

 

Children’s immigration cases often intersect with schools, child welfare agencies, and social services. We coordinate with counselors, social workers, and foster parents to ensure our young clients receive the care and stability they need. In addition, we help obtain records and letters from teachers and therapists that support a child’s case.

 

 

Standing Up Against Harmful Policies

 

ELR is more than just a law office—we are advocates for kids’ rights. When the government introduced $5,000 fines for unaccompanied teens, we spoke out against this policy and helped families challenge the notices. When deferred action for SIJ youth was rescinded, we joined coalitions urging the government to restore protection and filed appeals for affected clients. Furthermore, we stay up-to-date on legislative efforts like the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act, which would guarantee lawyers for unaccompanied minors. By staying informed and involved, we provide the strongest possible representation.

 

 

Steps to Get Help

 

If you are a child or teen facing immigration issues—or you care for someone who is—here are a few steps to take:

 

• Reach out early: The sooner you contact a lawyer, the more options you may have. Deadlines for SIJS and other relief can come quickly.

 

• Gather documents: Save identity papers, school records, medical reports, police reports, and any court documents from your home country. These can help prove your eligibility for protection.

 

• Stay informed: Keep up with policy changes and know your rights. For example, you have the right to safe housing and to be released from detention as soon as possible under the Flores Agreement.

 

• Ask questions: Never sign documents or agree to leave the country without talking to an attorney. If you receive a fine notice or other paperwork, consult a lawyer immediately.

 

At ELR Abogados de Inmigración, we offer free consultations and take the time to listen to your story. We speak both Spanish and English and treat every client with kindness and respect. Our goal is to help young people stay safe, reunite with family, and build a secure future in the United States. You can reach our team 24/7 at (818) 900-5707 or through our website.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Young immigrants face unique challenges, from fleeing danger to navigating complicated legal processes. Recent policy changes have created new obstacles, but with the right support, kids and teens can still find safety and opportunity. Legal representation dramatically improves a child’s chances of staying in the U.S. and avoiding exploitation. ELR Abogados de Inmigración is committed to standing with young people every step of the way. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact us—because no child should have to face immigration court alone.