If you are in the United States and need the protection of a juvenile court because you have been abused, abandoned or neglected by a parent, you may be eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification. If SIJ classification is granted, you may qualify for lawful permanent residency (also known as getting a Green Card). This generous benefit can be sought in front of an immigration judge as well. Please note that in the state of Texas, generally, the SIJ petitioner must be under 18 years of age in order to seek protections from a juvenile court. Due to delays in juvenile courts, it is advisable to start this process as soon as possible.