Not all unaccompanied children qualify for relief that will enable them to remain in the United States. Or, sometimes a child may wish to return to her or his country without pursuing any form of relief. In either case, the best option for the child will likely be to pursue voluntary departure, a form of relief that permits an otherwise deportable child to leave the United States within a designated amount of time and without harsh penalties. It is critical for children in these circumstances to be represented by counsel, lest they be forced to appear in court without understanding the repercussions of not taking this form of relief - a final removal order which would bar the child from reentering the U.S. for up to 10 years. With its "Safe Exit Program," KIND intends to match pro bono attorneys with children who are pursuing this form of relief.

KIND believes that no child should have to face immigration court alone and that even children with no other option but to return to their home country should be represented in court. KIND's Safe Exit Program will train lawyers in voluntary departure and create a network of trained attorneys to take on these cases and help children understand the important benefits of this form of relief and the consequences if they decide not to pursue it.