An abusive situation can feel impossible to escape. Immigrants experiencing abuse may feel as though they are alone in their struggle. However, this is not the case. An experienced immigration attorney could provide you with the legal support needed to overcome the abuse you are suffering. Contact a Glendale VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) lawyer for help ensuring the domestic abuse you have been subjected to does not interfere with your immigration status.
In 1994, the United States established the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) to provide programs to help prevent violence against women and their children. These programs also aim to provide services to protect those experiencing abuse.
Protections outlined in VAWA are available to all, including immigrants suffering domestic abuse. The law also enables those in need to self-petition for legal status in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship – particularly if they are experiencing abuse from their spouse or other relatives.
Anyone can apply for assistance through the VAWA in Arizona if they are a victim of battery or extreme cruelty committed by:
If you wish to self-petition under VAWA, you must be able to prove that you or your child have suffered abuse and cruelty from the abusive person. In cases where the abuser is your spouse, you must show you married in “good faith” and not just to become a legal resident of the United States. You must also prove that you:
To prove good moral character, you may need to gather affidavits from friends, family, or an employer. You could also show proof of volunteering or that you have not done anything to break the law.
If you meet the requirements, the Violence Against Women Act can help you in several ways, including:
You may be granted a removal of your conditional permanent residency if you were married to a permanent resident for less than two years and are seeking separation because of abuse. If you apply to remove conditions, you will have the opportunity to become a permanent resident. This can be done without your abuser’s consent.
Self-petitions can prevent removal from the United States and allow you to obtain Lawful Permanent Residency (LPR). To do so, you must fill out Form I-360 and begin proving your eligibility for relief from an abusive situation.
You may be able to cancel existing removal proceedings by proving abuse from a qualifying spouse. If successful, your children will also be protected from removal.
It is most challenging to cancel a removal because there is often little time to do so. However, you could fight back and protect yourself with the help of a Glendale attorney who has extensive experience with immigration laws and VAWA.
Seeking relief from domestic abuse should not cost you your citizenship. You should never feel you must remain living with an abusive person to protect your immigration status. Our legal team could help you do what is necessary to stay in the U.S. Contact our Glendale VAWA Lawyer today for information about your rights.
