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VAWA

Brooklyn VAWA Attorneys

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), enacted by Congress in 1994, is a groundbreaking piece of legislation that offers vital protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including immigrants. As experienced immigration attorneys, Usher Law Group views VAWA as a crucial lifeline for our clients who have been subjected to abuse. It allows certain spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents (Green Card holders) who have been victims of extreme cruelty or battery to file for immigration relief independently, without the abuser’s knowledge or consent.

This provision is significant as it empowers victims to seek both legal and personal safety. However, the process can be complex and requires meticulous documentation to establish eligibility. It’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable immigration attorney when exploring the VAWA self-petition pathway to ensure a correct and complete application. 

Our Brooklyn VAWA attorneys at Usher Law Group are here to support you and your family throughout the immigration process. Call us today at (718) 484-7510 to schedule a free consultation.

Essential Documentation for VAWA Immigration Applications

When applying for immigration relief under the Violence Against Women Act, it is critical to submit the right documents to establish your eligibility. While every case is unique, some of the essential documents you may need can include:

  • Form I-360 – VAWA Self-Petition
  • Proof of the abuser’s U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
  • Proof of relationship to the abuser, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or divorce decree
  • Evidence of having lived with the abuser
  • Documentation of the abuse, such as police reports, court records, and medical records
  • Proof of your good moral character, such as police clearance certificates, affidavits from friends and family, or evidence of community involvement
  • Psychological evaluation from a licensed mental health professional who can attest to your state of mental health due to the abuse suffered
  • Personal statement describing the abuse suffered

Contact Us for Compassionate Legal Support

The process of applying for immigration relief under VAWA can be fraught with challenges and complications. The requirement to provide comprehensive, compelling evidence of abuse can be an emotionally taxing process for victims. Moreover, understanding the nuances of immigration law and navigating the complexities of the application process often requires legal expertise that most individuals do not possess. 

There can also be language barriers and fear of reprisal from the abuser, which could further deter victims from pursuing the relief they are entitled to. It’s crucial to remember that help is available, and our compassionate, experienced attorneys can provide guidance and support during this difficult journey. From gathering necessary documentation to delivering legal guidance and representing your interests, our VAWA attorneys are here to help. 

Call our legal team at (718) 484-7510 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment.

 

We Are Prepared to Help




FAQ: Brooklyn VAWA Attorneys

What is the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)?
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law established in 1994 to protect victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. It also provides immigration relief for certain victims, allowing them to apply for legal status independently of their abuser as long as the abuser is either a Green Card Holder or a U.S. citizen.

Who can apply for VAWA protection as an immigrant?
Immigrants eligible for VAWA relief include:

  • Spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who have been abused
  • Children of abusive U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
  • Parents of abusive U.S. citizen children over 21

Why is VAWA important for immigrants facing abuse?
VAWA empowers victims to secure their immigration status without relying on their abuser. It offers a path to safety, independence, and stability, free from fear of deportation or further abuse.

What are the steps for filing a VAWA self-petition?

  1. Gather Required Evidence: This includes proof of abuse, your relationship to the abuser, and cohabitation.
  2. Complete Form I-360: This form is used for VAWA self-petitions.
  3. Provide Proof of Good Moral Character: Police clearances or affidavits can help establish this.
  4. Submit the Petition: File the required documents with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

What kind of evidence strengthens a VAWA case?
Strong evidence can include:

  • Medical or police reports documenting the abuse
  • Personal statements detailing your experiences
  • Photos or videos supporting claims of mistreatment
  • Testimonies from friends, family, or counselors
  • Proof of the abuser’s U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

What challenges might arise when filing for VAWA relief?
Victims often face:

  • Difficulty collecting evidence
  • Fear of retaliation or exposure to the abuser
  • Navigating complex legal processes without professional support
  • Emotional stress during the application process

How can a VAWA attorney assist?
An experienced attorney can help:

  • Develop a strong case by organizing compelling evidence
  • Navigate USCIS requirements to avoid delays or denials
  • Provide emotional support and protect your confidentiality
  • Advocate for your rights throughout the process

How do I get started?
If you or someone you know is an immigrant victim of abuse, contacting a skilled VAWA attorney is the first step. At Usher Law Group, our compassionate legal team specializes in helping clients through this challenging process and we at Usher Law Group have been helping immigrant victims of domestic violence get status in the United States for over 13 years.

Call our legal team at (718) 484-7510 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment.

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Read Our Client Testimonials
  • I highly recommend him for all of your legal needs.

    “Michael is a very knowledgeable attorney that fights hard to get his clients the best results. I highly recommend him for all of your legal needs.”

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    “I love this firm! They handle my immigration matter so quickly and they treated me like family. Mr. usher is a wonderful lawyer. If you have any immigration problems you should go to Usher Law Group PC to get them fixed.”

  • My family and I have used Mikhail Usher to handle multiple cases for us and always pleased with the outcome

    “My family and I have used Mikhail Usher to handle multiple cases for us and always pleased with the outcome. We have used him for our immigration case, debt/ creditor issues, and a real estate closing. He was very pleasant to chat with at the consultation. Paralegals always answer the phone quickly and return call quickly as well.”

  • I highly recommend Usher Law Group to everyone for any legal need or advice

    “I highly recommend Usher Law Group to everyone for any legal need or advice. They are extremely knowledgeable, quick at filing your case and constantly follow up with you regarding any updates. I have personally used them for over a decade now for several areas including immigration, real estate and civil litigation. What sets them apart is their lead attorney, Mike is relentless in pursuing the most satisfactory resolution for your case no matter the obstacles or circumstances.”

  • What more can i ask for?

    “Best lawyer I have ever had the privilege of hiring. He know what he is doing, takes pride in his work and has very reasonable prices. What more can i ask for?”