VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
Empowering Survivors: Understanding VAWA Visas and How QBM Legal Can Help
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For survivors of domestic violence, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) visa provides a lifeline to safety, independence, and lawful status in the United States. VAWA was enacted to protect individuals who have suffered abuse at the hands of a US citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent. At QBM Legal, we are committed to assisting survivors in their pursuit of a VAWA visa, providing compassionate support and expert guidance throughout the process.
What are VAWA Visas?
VAWA visas are a form of humanitarian relief for survivors of domestic violence, offering them the opportunity to self-petition for lawful status independently of their abusive US citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent. This protection is crucial, as it empowers survivors to break free from abusive relationships and regain control over their lives without the fear of deportation.
Requirements to Qualify for a VAWA Visa:
To be eligible for a VAWA visa, an applicant must meet certain criteria as a survivor of domestic violence:
Qualifying Relationship: The applicant must be the spouse or child of a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, or the parent of a US citizen son or daughter. The abuser must hold either US citizenship or permanent residency.
Evidence of Abuse: The survivor must provide evidence of having suffered battery or extreme cruelty at the hands of the US citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child.
Good Moral Character: The applicant must demonstrate good moral character, which includes a background check and adherence to US laws.
Residence with the Abuser: The survivor must have lived with the abusive US citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child at some point during the abusive relationship.
Self-Petition: VAWA allows survivors to self-petition, meaning they can file the application independently without the knowledge or consent of the abuser.
How QBM Legal Can Assist Eligible Individuals:
At QBM Legal, we are dedicated to supporting survivors through the VAWA visa application process, providing the following services:
Confidential Consultation: We offer a confidential and compassionate consultation to assess your eligibility for a VAWA visa and discuss the best course of action.
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Document Gathering: Our team will assist in gathering and organizing the necessary evidence to support your VAWA self-petition.
Preparing the VAWA Petition: Our experienced attorneys will diligently prepare and file your VAWA petition, ensuring it is accurate, comprehensive, and compelling.
Advocacy and Representation: We will serve as your strong advocates throughout the process, communicating with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf.
Protection from Removal: If you are facing removal proceedings, we will work to halt or delay the process while your VAWA petition is pending.
Assisting with Dependent Family Members: We can help eligible family members of the survivor seek derivative VAWA benefits, extending protection to them as well.
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If you are a survivor of domestic violence and meet the requirements for a VAWA visa, QBM Legal is here to support you on your journey to safety, independence, and lawful status in the United States.
Our dedicated team of immigration attorneys is committed to providing expert guidance and compassionate assistance throughout the VAWA visa application process. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us be your advocates in empowering you to build a new life free from abuse and fear.
