VAWA

Philadelphia VAWA Attorney

Many immigrants rely on their spouses or parents to sponsor their immigrant visas.  To protect victims of domestic violence from having to endure further abuse in order to remain in valid immigration status, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain partners, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and some spouses and children of permanent residents (Green Card holders) to self-petition for permanent residency without the knowledge of the abusive spouse or parent.

A wide range of behavior can constitute domestic violence, including threats, beatings, sexual abuse or exploitation, threats to deport the immigrant or turn him or her over to immigration authorities, forcible detention, and threatened or committed acts of violence against another person in order to mold the immigrant’s behavior.

Because your case may not get approved if you do not know how to demonstrate that you meet the qualifying criteria or gather the supporting evidence, it is wise to seek an experienced immigration attorney to assist you.

If you or a dependent are a victim of abuse and are concerned about your immigration status if you leave your sponsor, contact the Law Office of Tejal Mehta.  Immigration attorney Tejal Mehta is skilled and knowledgeable with applying the VAWA requirements.  She will evaluate your case with sensitivity regarding your situation.  Ms. Mehta will also guide you on the type of evidence you will need to present your case in the strongest light.