Attorney Mulligan of Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, is known for his work in assisting immigrant children in obtaining custody and Special Juvenile Immigration Status (SIJS). SIJS is a legal mechanism that allows certain immigrant children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents to obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States.
**Attorney Mulligan’s approach to working with immigrant children to obtain custody and SIJS involves several key steps:**
- **Assessment and Consultation:** Attorney Mulligan begins by conducting an initial assessment of the child’s situation. This includes gathering information about the child’s immigration status, family background, and any potential abuse, neglect, or abandonment they may have experienced. He also consults with the child’s guardian ad litem or social worker to understand the child’s best interests.
- **Custody Proceedings:** If it is determined that obtaining custody is necessary for the child’s well-being, Attorney Mulligan assists in initiating custody proceedings in the appropriate court. He works closely with the child’s guardian ad litem or social worker to gather evidence and present a compelling case for custody. This may involve demonstrating that reunification with the child’s parents is not viable due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
- **Special Juvenile Immigration Status (SIJS) Petition:** Once custody is obtained, Attorney Mulligan helps prepare and file a petition for SIJS on behalf of the child. This involves gathering evidence to demonstrate that the child meets the eligibility criteria for SIJS, which includes proving abuse, neglect, or abandonment by one or both parents. Attorney Mulligan ensures that all required documentation is properly submitted and advocates for the child throughout the SIJS process.
- **Collaboration with Immigration Authorities:** Attorney Mulligan works closely with immigration authorities, such as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), to navigate the SIJS process. He communicates with USCIS
officers, responds to requests for additional evidence, and attends interviews or hearings as necessary. Attorney Mulligan’s expertise in immigration law allows him to effectively advocate for the child’s SIJS application.
5. **Post-SIJS Support:** After SIJS is granted, Attorney Mulligan continues to provide support to the child and their guardian. This may include assisting with the adjustment of status to lawful permanent residency, providing guidance on accessing educational and healthcare resources, and ensuring ongoing legal representation if needed.