Boston VAWA Lawyers

Helping Immigrant Clients Who Are In Abusive Relationships

For many immigrants in the United States, being in an abusive and violent relationship with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident is a reality. Facing immigration issues only adds to the stress and trauma of this devastating situation. For example, without the support of your abusive spouse, you may not be able to gain lawful permanent status or citizenship. Fortunately, our country has laws in place that protect immigrants who are victims of domestic violence.

At Toland Law, LLC, we have a reputation for strongly advocating for the rights of victims and have helped many of our clients successfully navigate the complicated legal system. We can help provide evidence of your good moral character and submit a VAWA petition that exempts you from needing support from your spouse to obtain legal status.

Our firm has spent many years helping immigrants self-petition in cases of abuse and extreme cruelty. We know what it takes to win a VAWA case and will apply our determination, knowledge, and skills to get you the immigration benefits you deserve.

Call us now at 857-347-3701 to schedule your consultation with our immigration attorney.

What Is The Violence Against Women Act?

Immigration law makes it necessary for immigrants to be sponsored by a family member or spouse to become lawful permanent residents. In some circumstances, immigrants who are being abused will feel obligated to stay with their abuser because they feel it is their only chance of getting a green card. Sometimes, the abusers are aware of this and will use the power of the green card to manipulate and continue abusing their victims.

In 1994, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was signed by former President Bill Clinton to protect immigrants who are victims of domestic violence and in abusive relationships. The VAWA allows victims of abuse to self-petition without the help of the abuser. This can be incredibly freeing for victims of abuse and extreme cruelty who want to avoid deportation proceedings without relying on their abusive spouse.

Submitting a VAWA petition can be complicated and can easily be delayed or denied if mistakes are made or if minor details are omitted. You’ll need to prove that you have a qualifying spousal relationship, that you are a person of good moral character, and that you meet other USCIS guidelines. Contact our law firm for Boston VAWA lawyers, who will provide legal guidance and representation in this crucial matter.

What Needs to Be Proven to Win a VAWA Case?

For an immigrant who is abused by a permanent resident spouse or U.S. citizen spouse, having the VAWA petition approved can make a world of difference in their life now and for their future. With permanent resident status, they can sponsor their immediate family members to come into the country. However, if your abusive spouse refuses to cooperate with your status adjustment, you’ll need to be approved under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

To win a VAWA case, the self-petitioning spouse must prove:

The abuser is a U.S. citizen or has a green card
The abuser was legally married to the victim
The victim was living with the abuser
The abuse occurred during the marriage
The marriage was entered into good faith and not simply for immigration benefits
The victim is a person of good moral character

For help getting your immigrant visa, permanent residence, or green card under VAWA, please reach out to our legal team right away. Our Boston immigration lawyer can help you submit supporting documentation to get you the best chance of being approved. The immigration process can be lengthy, so contact us right away to get started.

What Kind of Evidence Can Be Used to Prove the Abuse or Battery Occurred?

When you are filing a VAWA petition, you have to prove that you were subjected to extreme cruelty or were battered by your spouse. It should be noted that the USCIS takes all forms of abuse into consideration, which includes emotional, physical, and mental abuse. Proving that you are a battered spouse can be a complex process, but our law firm is here to help you navigate this stressful experience.

Many people believe that to win a VAWA case, you must have a police report, but that is not the case at all. All that is needed is any credible evidence that proves the abuse occurred. We are highly experienced in helping an abused spouse obtain permanent residency as a VAWA applicant, and we will provide legal guidance and representation to help you submit your VAWA petition.

Supplemental Evidence

Supplemental evidence that can help your case includes:

Medical and hospital records
Restraining orders
Therapist or counselor reports
Domestic violence shelter paperwork

Another essential thing to include is a personal statement that thoroughly describes the abuse, the relationship with the abuser, and your immigration history. Our skilled Boston VAWA lawyers can provide more feedback and guidance on what else would benefit your case. Contact our team of attorneys for advice based on your unique situation.

Why Should I Apply for Benefits Under VAWA?

If you are married to an abusive US citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may feel like you have no way out of the situation. Please note that this applies equally to men and children as it does to women. You have the right to a safe living situation, and immigration laws make it possible for you to remain in the country even without sponsorship from your abusive spouse.

For individuals who married in good faith and ended up in abusive relationships, there is hope through the Violence Against Women Act. Being approved under VAWA means that you can be eligible for a green card without the help of your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse.

When you have your green card, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of permanent residency, such as being able to travel, work in the U.S., and sponsor your own immediate relatives.

Call our law firm immediately for help with your immigration case if you are the victim of verbal, emotional, sexual, or physical abuse. We have helped other battered spouses like you, and we know what it takes to get results for VAWA self-petitioners.

Should You Hire Our Boston Violence Against Women Act Attorneys?

If you are an immigrant who is in an abusive relationship, you have options and do not have to stay in that relationship whatsoever. At Toland Law, LLC, our VAWA lawyers in Boston will fight to protect your rights and help you move on from this terrible chapter in your life.

We promise to leverage our knowledge, talent, and experience to give you the best chance of approval under VAWA. We will do everything possible to open the doors and help you. Learn more about our comprehensive immigration services today.

We know these are trying times, but please remember that they are only temporary and that help is available.