VAWA Lawyer For Victims of Abuse
- 15+ Years Experience
- Bilingual Services (Spanish/English)
- Free Consultation
- Family-Centered Approach
If you’ve faced domestic abuse and are worried about your immigration status, know that you’re not alone. Our VAWA immigration lawyers understand how scary and personal this situation feels. For over 15 years, we’ve been guiding people in similar situations toward a safer future. Our bilingual team speaks both Spanish and English, and we’re committed to helping you and your family with care and respect every step of the way. Your first meeting is completely free – let’s talk about your options when you’re ready. Schedule your free evaluation with a VAWA lawyer today.
What is the Violence Against Women Act?
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law created to protect immigrants facing domestic violence, sexual assault, and similar crimes. This immigration law gives victims legal rights and access to services such as restraining orders, counseling, shelter, and legal immigration status. If you or someone you know is a victim, this law can be an important starting point for seeking safety and justice.
How VAWA Protects Victims of Abuse
If your VAWA application is approved, you are protected from deportation and granted a work permit. If eligible you could apply for a green card, which means you can seek permanent residency in the United States. In many states, you may also qualify for programs like Medicaid and food assistance.
The Violence Against Women Act covers people who have suffered “battery or extreme cruelty” by a relative with legal status – either citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. This includes threats of domestic violence, emotional abuse, sexual coercion, threats of deportation, financial abuse or other acts that control your daily life, movement, or relationships.
VAWA Eligibility Requirements
The Violence Against Women Act allows some abused family members of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to file for immigration relief by themselves. This means a person who qualifies for VAWA does not have to rely on their abusive family member to get their green card or their legal status in the United States. The VAWA self-petition process protects privacy and safety, which is so important for applicants.
To be eligible for relief under the Violence Against Women Act, a person must show certain circumstances depending on whether they are a spouse, a child, or a parent of the person who abused them.
Spouses Facing Abuse
A spouse may qualify to file a VAWA petition if they are or were legally married to a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident who has abused them. There are a few things they need to show. First, the marriage must have been entered in good faith and not solely for immigration benefits. Abusive relationships where a spouse is threatened, hit, controlled, or made to live in fear can qualify. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological or financial. A current or former spouse can file for permanent residence under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) if:
- They are still married to the abuser at the time they file,
- The abuser has died,
- The marriage ended by divorce in the last two years, or
- The abuser lost their status in the United States or renounced citizenship due to anything related to domestic violence.
Children of Domestic Violence
Children who are unmarried and under 21 who have endured domestic abuse from an abusive parent who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident might qualify. Abuse may include hitting, threats, harsh punishment, constant ridicule, or isolation. Some children may be able to file even after turning 21, as there are exceptions for those who turned 21 but are under 25 and can show that the abuse from their citizen parent delayed their filing.
You can also apply for VAWA protections as a stepchild if one of your parents married your abusive stepparent before you turned 18, and the abuse happened while you lived with them. You must also show that the abuse was serious and file your VAWA petition before you turn 21. The stepparent must be a U.S. citizen or a Green Card holder.
Parents Facing Domestic Violence
Parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old and who have suffered abuse from their own adult child may qualify for VAWA. These cases tend to come up when a U.S. citizen son or daughter uses threats, intimidation, or violence against their parent. In VAWA cases, police or medical reports are not required; the main evidence is usually the applicant’s detailed and credible personal statement (declaration). They can also include statements from people who know what happened.
If you think you may be eligible to apply for VAWA protections, it’s a good idea to reach out for legal help so your situation can be evaluated closely. There are ways to stay safe as you apply, and VAWA does not require you to involve your abuser in the legal process. Contact Alonso & Alonso, Attorneys at Law, today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Do You Need a VAWA Immigration Lawyer?
Hiring a VAWA lawyer is often the safest way to apply for relief. While you can technically do it on your own, making one small mistake can be the difference between a denial and an approval. With so much at stake, it makes sense to work with someone who handles these petitions for a living. An experienced immigration lawyer understands both the immigration process and sensitive issues at play, such as your safety and right to confidentiality.
Whether you are a spouse of a citizen or permanent resident, an abused child, or even a parent, a VAWA attorney can guide you through the complex paperwork and gather the necessary evidence. Legal counsel increases the chance that your petition is strong enough to meet strict requirements – like demonstrating good moral character, qualifying relationships, and documenting residence with an abusive family member.
A dedicated VAWA immigration lawyer offers more than help with paperwork. They ensure your voice is heard throughout this crucial step in changing your life. We have experience with all types of family-based immigration processes, and can help you every step of the way.
The VAWA Visa Petition Process
Even if you’re going to work with experienced immigration attorneys to seek relief and become a lawful permanent resident through a VAWA petition, it’s a good idea to understand the VAWA process and what to expect.
Start the VAWA Self-Petition
You begin by filing Form I-360, called a VAWA self-petition. No filing fee is required for VAWA applicants. Alongside this form, provide documentation such as police reports, witness statements, a marriage certificate (if married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse), proof you lived with the abuser, and evidence of good moral character.
Attend a USCIS Interview
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may order an interview for VAWA petitioners to verify details or ask about the relationship and abuse. This happens on some occasions, just to review evidence. It doesn’t mean that a VAWA case is approved or not.
Concurrent Filing
If you file a VAWA application based on being the spouse, parent, or child of a citizen (or a loved one with unlawful status but who otherwise would qualify), and a visa is available, you may file I-360 and Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) at the same time. If your abuser is a lawful permanent resident rather than a citizen, you typically file only the I-360 first and submit the I-485 later, after a visa number opens.
After Approval: Getting Your Green Card
When the United States immigration authorities approve your VAWA petition and Form I-485, you will receive lawful permanent resident status.
This is a brief overview of what will take place. In practice, it can be complicated and take years to complete because of current processing times. Working with quality legal representation ensures you take every step needed to avoid delays in this long and challenging process. Reach out to our immigration law firm today.
Why VAWA Applicants Should Choose Alonso & Alonso For Help
Finding the right legal help can change your entire experience when dealing with the United States government. For anyone who has suffered family violence or abuse by a citizen spouse or permanent resident spouse, the VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) was designed to protect you. Here’s why we’re a great choice when you’re looking for legal help:
VAWA Expertise For Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
With over 15 years of experience focusing on family-based immigration and VAWA applications, Alonso & Alonso brings you the insight you need. Over these years, our attorneys have coordinated many family reunification cases for immigrant survivors. We can help you no matter what the situation is – an abusive spouse, child of a citizen parent, foreign nationals harmed by gender based violence, or even men harmed by an abusive spouse.
Bilingual & Culturally Sensitive When Handling Your VAWA Application
We know legal support only works if you feel heard, and nothing is lost in translation. As a firm built by native Spanish-speaking attorneys, we are a Spanish-first law firm, focusing on the unique structures of Latino families. Our attorneys bring their own cultural understanding into handling your case. We understand how difficult it is to talk about sexual assault and discuss details about who committed the abuse.
We’ll do everything we can to make sure you’re comfortable explaining the situation to us so we can help you seek safety.
VAWA Success Stories
They are so kind and understanding at this law firm. Every employee is happy to help you. I truly appreciate them, as we’ve been to many different lawyers and nobody can compare to the way they treat their clients. I love how they are consistent with calls and texts letting you know in which phase of the process that your case is in. Highly recommend their services. They were able to get my dad a work permit even when we thought it’d be near impossible!!
It’s been a pleasure working with the firm Alonso & Alonso , they have been keeping me updated about my case and answer all the questions that I may have. The whole staff have been amazing and super helpful thank you so much for your patience and for going above and beyond for your clients.
WIN.!!WIN.! WIN.!!!!!!They won my removal and deportation case. I could have get deported. It was an impossible case. Attorney Chris Alonso and his team is amazing. I am really thankful to the whole team of Alonso & Alonso Law firm. Now I can work freely and hopefully will get my green card soon. Throughout the process they were professional, honest and helpful. The way they presented my case in the court was simply professional, humble and proud of the their skills.
Thanks Alonso & Alonso Attorneys at Law, you saved my life and future.!🙏🙏
I’m very happy with their service. Best customer service. They keep you updated very well through out the process.
I am very happy to be a part of the Alonso and Alonso family. Very professional and attentive. They always keep me inform of how my case is going. I also love it that they take there time to review my case and make sure everything is right on point . I understand that this takes time to me it doesn’t matter how long it takes as long as my lawyer get me what will change my life . Thank you family for taking my case when no other lawyers would . Keep doing a great job and making our dreams come true. May god bless you Mr Chris and Vanessa and there professional team.
This team has been one of the most consistent, attentive and more with my case. They always answer my calls quick and have the patience for all of my questions;They inform me about everything so well . I’m glad to be a part of Alonso & Alonso law.
Book Your Free VAWA Lawyer Evaluation Today To Learn More About Becoming a Lawful Permanent Resident
Taking the hard first step toward legal protection after suffering from extreme cruelty at the hands of a spouse or other family member can feel overwhelming. Our lawyers offer free evaluations for anyone considering a VAWA petition after being in an abusive situation. If you’re considering reaching out for your VAWA case, you can contact us by phone, online form, or live chat—whatever feels most comfortable for you.
We’ll walk you through the process and explain your options under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). To get ready, have copies of your birth certificate, marriage record, and statements/declarations you’ve made about abuse. Proof of immigration status for you and the person you’re seeking safety from can also help. Our goal is for all VAWA self-petitioners to feel safe and supported while we help you get the protection you need. Whenever you’re ready to get started, reach out to Alonso & Alonso, Attorneys at Law, to schedule a free case evaluation with our immigration law firm.
VAWA Lawyer FAQs
How long does it take to get VAWA approved?
The average wait for VAWA approval is about 2 to 3.5 years, but it can be longer or shorter depending on case details. Processing times also depend on your relationship to the abuser and how quickly the government reviews supporting documentation.
Can VAWA applications be rejected?
A VAWA self-petition might be denied if proof of domestic abuse or extreme cruelty is weak, there’s missing evidence, or past immigration issues come up. Professional help from an immigration attorney can lower these risks significantly.
How does VAWA affect the abuser?
Generally, U.S. immigration authorities do not tell abusers about these applications, so most abusers are not directly affected.
Who qualifies for a VAWA visa?
People abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or adult child may qualify, whether male or female. The VAWA self-petitioner must show the qualifying relationship, proof that abuse occurred, and evidence that they lived with the abuser at some point.
Can VAWA stop deportation?
If you are facing removal and have survived abuse, a VAWA self-petition can offer protection and possibly stop deportation, depending on the circumstances. It’s helpful to speak with a VAWA attorney quickly during the immigration process.
What is a VAWA Visa?
A VAWA Visa is a way for victims of abuse, who are close family members of U.S. citizens or permanent residents, to apply for legal status (lawful permanent residency) without the help of their abuser.
How much does VAWA cost?
While applying for protection using VAWA does not have a government filing fee, you may need to pay separate costs for green card processing, and you should also consider attorney fees if you hire an immigration law firm to help. When you come in for your free evaluation, we will discuss prices openly and transparently so you know exactly what to expect.
What’s the difference between VAWA and a U Visa?
VAWA allows victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child to apply for a green card without that person’s help or knowledge. A U visa is for people who have been victims of violent crimes and who then assist law enforcement by helping them investigate or prosecute the crime.
