Practice Areas

Violence against Women Act (VAWA)

Violence against Women Act

Immigration relief for battered spouses, battered children, and abused elders

If you are a non-US citizen who has been abused by your US citizen spouse, parent, or child, help is on the way.  Contact P. Grossman, A Professional Law Corporation, to find out how you can self-petition.

What is VAWA?

In the past, a non-citizen or non-resident was particularly vulnerable to abuse. An abusive US citizen or legal permanent resident could use a relative's undocumented or illegal status against them, isolating them and making them afraid to leave or seek help. Thus, they became more isolated and vulnerable to the abuser.

Despite its name, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) does not only apply to women. It offers relief to relatives of abusive US citizens and legal permanent residents by allowing them to petition for adjustment of status or naturalization on their own--without their USC or legal permanent resident spouse, father, or child.

Who can Self Petition?

Any spouse, child, or parent of a United States citizen or legal permanent resident can petition if they can prove that they have been abused. They are eligible even if the abuser recently passed away or the abuse took place outside the United States.

What if I am already in  removal or  deportation proceedings?

There are special deportation defenses for VAWA eligible aliens in removal proceedings.

Also, if you have been previously been ordered removed in immigration court, and have not previously raised the VAWA defense, you may be able to file a motion to reopen the case or even file a new self-petition with USCIS.

T and U Visas

Victims of violent crimes may also be eligible for T or U visas if they help the authorities apprehend and convict their attackers.

To learn more about battered spouse relief, Contact P. Grossman, a Professional Law Corporation for an initial consultation.

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P. Grossman, a Professional Law Corporation represents clients throughout California including the cities of Fresno, Madera, Visalia, Merced, Bakersfield, Tarzana, Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley, San Joaquin Valley, and San Gabriel Valley.

Fresno County, Kings County, Tulare County, Madera County, Kern County, Los Angeles County, Ventura County, Riverside County, Orange County, San Diego County