Probate Court issues Special Findings for Juvenile

Attorney Mooradian's client, who faced protracted neglect and abandonment in Central America, was recently issued special findings that will support his petition for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status.  The client fled to the United States in fear of gang threats and violence, particularly after his family member had been murdered in the family home.  Having no parent available to protect him, the court determined that reunification with his parents was not viable on account of abandonment and neglect.  In addition, the court held that it was not in his best interests to return to his country of origin, but rather that it was in his best interests to remain in Massachusetts under the care and custody of an extended family member.  This matter was adjudicated under M.G.L. c. 119, §39M, which allows young people up to age 21 to be considered an immigrant child by the Massachusetts courts.