VAWA Immigration Lawyer: Help for Victims of Domestic Violence and Abuse
At Marcano Legal, we understand the challenges faced by victims of domestic violence and abuse in immigration situations.
Our team, led by Attorney Grace Marcano-Gonzalez, provides caring legal support for those seeking help under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Based in Florida, we offer personalized legal services both locally and nationwide through virtual consultations.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our VAWA attorney and learn how we can assist with your VAWA immigration case.
Understanding VAWA Immigration Relief:
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is an important law that helps victims of domestic violence with their immigration status. It allows certain abused family members to self-petition for a green card without needing help from their abuser.
Who Can Benefit from VAWA?
VAWA immigration relief may be available to:
- Abused spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
- Children who have been abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent
- Parents who have been abused by their adult U.S. citizen children
- Spouses whose children have been abused by the spouse’s U.S. citizen or permanent resident partner
The VAWA Self-Petition Process:
Applying for VAWA immigration relief involves several steps:
- Determining if you qualify for VAWA
- Gathering evidence of abuse and your relationship to the abuser
- Preparing and filing Form I-360, a special immigration petition
- Responding to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) from USCIS
- Waiting for USCIS to make a decision
- If approved, applying for a green card
Our experienced VAWA immigration attorneys at Marcano Legal guide you through each step of this complex process.
Eligibility Requirements for VAWA:
To qualify for VAWA immigration relief, you generally need to show:
- You have been subjected to battery or extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child
- You lived with the abuser
- You are a person of good moral character
- For spousal cases, you entered the marriage in good faith
Our law group can help determine your eligibility and build a strong case for your VAWA petition.
Benefits of VAWA Immigration Relief:
VAWA offers several important benefits for victims of abuse:
- Ability to self-petition without the abuser’s knowledge or consent
- Protection from deportation
- Eligibility for work authorization
- Potential pathway to lawful permanent resident status (green card)
- Possibility of including certain family members in the petition
Work Authorization and Financial Independence
One crucial benefit of VAWA is the ability to apply for work authorization. This allows victims to gain financial independence from their abusers.
VAWA Visa Options:
Under VAWA, eligible applicants may qualify for different visa options:
- VAWA self-petition (Form I-360)
- U visa for victims of criminal activity
- T visa for victims of human trafficking
A knowledgeable VAWA immigration lawyer can help you determine which visa option is best for your situation.
Contact our law firm today to start building your VAWA strategy.
Our experienced VAWA immigration attorney at Marcano Legal can help guide you through each step of this complex process.
Frequently Asked Questions About VAWA Immigration
Yes, you may still qualify if you file within two years of the divorce and can show the divorce was related to the abuse.
No, USCIS keeps VAWA petitions confidential and will not contact your abuser or inform them of your application.
Yes, you can apply for VAWA relief even if you’re currently undocumented or have overstayed a visa.
Processing times can vary, but we’ll provide you with current estimates based on USCIS trends and your specific situation.
You may be eligible to apply for work authorization while your VAWA petition is pending. We can assist you with this process.
Why Choose Marcano Legal for Your VAWA Case?
Dealing with VAWA immigration cases requires sensitive and experienced legal guidance. At Marcano Legal, we offer:
- Deep understanding of VAWA immigration law and USCIS procedures
- Compassionate and confidential handling of your case
- Personalized attention to your unique circumstances
- Assistance in gathering necessary evidence to support your petition
- Timely updates on your case progress
Our team is committed to helping survivors of domestic violence find safety and stability through VAWA immigration relief.
Virtual Consultation: Take the First Step Towards Safety and Independence
If you’re a victim of domestic violence or abuse and are seeking immigration relief, you don’t have to face this challenging situation alone. At Marcano Legal, we’re dedicated to helping survivors navigate the complexities of VAWA immigration law and achieve legal status.
Disclaimer: This website contains general information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed until a formal agreement is signed. Past results do not predict future outcomes. Each case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.