Pro Bono Legal Clinic for Asylum Seekers & SIJ Applicants in New York City
Welcome to Our Pro Bono Legal Clinic
At Global Esquire Law Firm, we are committed to providing high-quality, compassionate legal services to the most vulnerable members of our community. Our Pro Bono Legal Clinic is dedicated to helping asylum seekers and Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) applicants in New York City navigate the complex immigration process, ensuring they have access to justice and a fair opportunity to build a safer future in the United States.
Why We Offer Pro Bono Services?
Many individuals fleeing persecution, violence, or abandonment face overwhelming legal challenges and often lack the resources to afford legal representation. Our firm understands the extraordinary circumstances these individuals endure, and we believe in using our expertise to support them in their time of need. We provide pro bono legal services to ensure that no one is denied the chance for a fresh start due to financial barriers.
Who We Help?
1. Asylum Seekers
- Individuals fleeing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- Those facing life-threatening circumstances in their home countries, including threats from government authorities, extremist groups, or societal persecution.
- Applicants in need of immediate legal assistance to apply for asylum or defend against deportation in immigration court.
2. Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Applicants
- Minors under the age of 21 who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both parents.
- Children who are currently under the jurisdiction of a family or juvenile court in New York and are unable to return to their home country due to unsafe conditions.
- Young immigrants in need of legal representation to navigate the SIJ application process, including assistance with family court orders, immigration petitions, and adjustment of status.
Our Pro Bono Legal Services Include:
1. Comprehensive Legal Consultation
- Case Evaluation: Our attorneys provide a thorough review of each client’s case to determine eligibility for asylum or SIJ status.
- Understanding Your Story: We take the time to listen to your experiences and understand the unique circumstances that brought you to the United States.
2. Application Preparation and Filing
- Asylum Applications (Form I-589): Assistance with preparing and submitting asylum applications, ensuring all necessary documents and evidence are included.
- SIJ Petitions (Form I-360): Guidance through the SIJ process, including preparation of family court orders and filing Form I-360 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Adjustment of Status: Support with filing Form I-485 for clients who are eligible to adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents.
3. Legal Representation and Advocacy
- Family Court Proceedings: Legal representation in family court to obtain the necessary orders for SIJ applications, ensuring minors receive the protection they deserve.
- Immigration Court Representation: Skilled advocacy for asylum seekers facing removal proceedings, with a focus on presenting a compelling case to the immigration judge.
- Interview and Hearing Preparation: Preparation for USCIS interviews and immigration court hearings, including mock interview sessions and guidance on responding to questions.
4. Post-Approval Support
- Employment Authorization Assistance: Help with applying for work permits (EAD) once asylum is granted or while an SIJ application is pending.
- Family Reunification: Guidance for eligible asylum seekers on petitioning for immediate family members to join them in the United States.
Extraordinary Circumstances We Address
We recognize that many asylum seekers and SIJ applicants come to the U.S. under extraordinary and often traumatic circumstances. Our clinic is equipped to handle cases involving:
- Survivors of Gender-Based Violence: Including those fleeing domestic violence, forced marriage, human trafficking, or female genital mutilation (FGM).
- Political Persecution: Individuals targeted due to their political beliefs or activism, including journalists, human rights defenders, and political opponents.
- LGBTQ+ Persecution: Those fleeing countries where their sexual orientation or gender identity puts them at risk of violence, imprisonment, or death.
- Unaccompanied Minors: Young immigrants who have endured dangerous journeys to escape abuse, neglect, or violence and are in urgent need of legal protection.
- Family Separation: Children who have been separated from their parents due to deportation, detention, or other factors beyond their control, requiring legal assistance to reunite.
Why Choose Our Pro Bono Legal Clinic?
- Expertise in Immigration Law: Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling complex asylum and SIJ cases, providing clients with knowledgeable and compassionate representation.
- Multilingual Support: We offer services in multiple languages including Wolof, Bambara, and French to ensure clear communication and understanding throughout the legal process.
- Commitment to Justice: We believe that everyone deserves access to legal representation, regardless of their financial situation, and are dedicated to advocating for the most vulnerable members of our community.
- Comprehensive Legal Support: From family court proceedings to immigration interviews, our team is with you every step of the way, ensuring you have the best chance of success.
How to Access Our Pro Bono Services?
- Step 1: Schedule an Initial Consultation – Contact us to schedule a consultation and discuss your case with one of our experienced attorneys.
- Step 2: Case Assessment – We will evaluate your eligibility for asylum or SIJ status and determine the best course of action.
- Step 3: Legal Representation – Our team will guide you through the legal process, providing the support and advocacy you need.
Contact Us Today
If you or someone you know is in need of pro bono legal assistance for asylum or SIJ status, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to provide the legal support and guidance necessary to help you build a safer future.
Phone: 929-204-8205
Email: legal@globalesquire.com
Office: 8 W. 126th Street, New York, NY 10027