VAWA Immigration Attorney
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VAWA Immigration Attorney
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law that provides immigration relief to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes. This relief includes the ability to self-petition for a green card, obtain a work permit, and obtain certain types of immigration benefits for family members.
We can help you determine if you are eligible to self-petition for a green card under VAWA and assist you with the filing process. We also represent victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes in immigration matters, including applications for asylum, U Visas, T Visas, and VAWA self-petitions.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney.
VAWA Self-Petitions
VAWA self-petitions are filed by victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes who are married to or were previously married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). To self-petition for a green card under VAWA, you must first file an I-360 Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant with USCIS.
Evidence required to support a VAWA self-petition includes, but is not limited to:
- Proof of the abuse or mistreatment
- Proof of the relationship with the abuser, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree
- Proof that you entered the United States legally, and to the relationship in good faith
- Proof that the abuser is a U.S. citizen or LPR
- Medical records documenting the injuries suffered
- Evidence of financial abuse, such as credit card statements or bank records
- Witness statements from friends, family members, co-workers, or others who have knowledge of the abuse
If you are granted a VAWA self-petition, you will be granted deferred action, which means that you will not be deported while your case is pending. You may also be eligible to apply for a work permit and certain immigration benefits for your children. Once your self-petition is approved, you will be able to apply for a green card.
How an Immigration Attorney Can Help with Your VAWA Self-Petition
The complex web of immigration laws can be difficult to navigate on your own, as much of the process is done through filing paperwork with various government agencies.
Your immigration attorney will be able to help you gather the necessary evidence to support your self-petition. This may include police reports, medical records, and restraining orders.
Your attorney will also help you fill out the necessary paperwork and file it with the USCIS. Once your petition has been approved, you will be able to move forward with your green card application.
An immigration attorney can also provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the entire process. If your self-petition is denied, your attorney can help you appeal the decision. And if you are granted a green card, your attorney can help you navigate the next steps in the process, such as applying for citizenship.
Complications in Your VAWA Case
The process of self-petitioning for a green card under VAWA can be complicated.
For example, if you have ever been arrested or detained by law enforcement, you will need to provide documentation of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
If you have ever filed for bankruptcy, this will also need to be disclosed. Additionally, if you have ever been mistreated by an abuser who is also a VAWA self-petitioner, you may be ineligible for benefits.
It is important to have an experienced immigration attorney by your side to help you navigate these complications and give you the best chance at success.
Other Immigration Relief Options for Victims of Abuse
In addition to VAWA self-petitions, there are other forms of immigration relief available to victims of abuse.
For example, if you are the victim of a crime, you may be eligible for a U Visa. To qualify, you must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime, and you must be willing to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the perpetrator.
If you are the victim of human trafficking, you may be eligible for a T Visa. To qualify, you must have been trafficked into the United States for the purpose of labor or services, and you must be willing to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the trafficking ring.
There are also reliefs available to victims of domestic violence in removal proceedings. For example, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Cancellation of Removal allows certain victims of abuse to apply for a green card if they meet certain eligibility requirements.
To qualify, you must have been physically present in the United States for a continuous period of at least three years, you must have been the victim of abuse by a U.S. citizen or LPR spouse or parent, and you must demonstrate that you would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the United States.
Contact an Experienced VAWA Immigration Attorney Today
If you are a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or other crimes, contact an experienced immigration attorney today.
At Olubusayo Fasidi PC, we have represented many clients in VAWA self-petitions and other immigration matters. We know how to build a strong case and we will fight for you every step of the way.
It is important to have an experienced immigration attorney by your side to help you navigate these complications and give you the best chance at success.
- U.S Adjustment of status Attorney
- Green Card Processing & Renewals Attorney
- U.S Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney
- U.S Fiance(e) Visa Expert Attorney
- Immigration Waivers Attorney
- USCIS Response to Request for Evidence or Intent to Deny
- Visa Extension of Stay Attorney
- VAWA Immigration Attorney
- Prosecution and Asylum Attorney
- Student Visa Attorney
- Deportation Defense Attorneys
- Immigration Motions Attorney
- Immigration Appeal Attorney
You don’t need to navigate this intricate journey alone. Reach out to us today and allow us to guide you
