In the fiscal year 2022, a striking number of children from the Northern Triangle countries of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras—three-quarters of all unaccompanied minors—were apprehended at the U.S. southern border. This statistic underscores the relentless challenges these young migrants face: violence, poverty, and instability in their home countries (Council on Foreign Relations). Within this context, the work of Family Law paralegals like Oscar Mendoza becomes not just commendable but essential.
Recently, Oscar Mendoza, a dedicated Family Law paralegal at JAMLAC, successfully closed his first case, marking a significant milestone in his career and a life-changing moment for his client. The case involved a minor child from Guatemala who fled to the United States to escape a perilous environment marked by familial neglect and health crises. This young girl’s journey through Mexico to an immigration shelter in the U.S. was fraught with challenges, yet it was just the beginning of her quest for stability and safety.
Under Oscar’s diligent efforts, the court granted the petition for Allocation of Parental Responsibilities. With this approval, we could later apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) for her. This legal victory allowed the child to live under the care of her older cousin in Colorado, providing her with the stability needed to thrive. Now attending school and participating in extracurricular activities, she exemplifies the resilience and potential of young immigrants when given a chance at a better life.
Oscar reflects on the impact of his work: “This case, like many others, tells a story of determination and resilience. It’s immensely rewarding to help facilitate this child’s journey toward a brighter future, and it reaffirms my commitment to assisting others who face poverty and oppression.”
For our community at JAMLAC, Oscar’s success is a reminder of the critical role legal advocacy plays in changing lives. Each case we support not only addresses immediate legal needs but also contributes to a larger narrative of hope and resilience. As we celebrate Oscar’s achievement, we are reminded of the importance of continued support and engagement from our community to uphold the rights and dignity of every individual we serve.