VAWA

VAWA DETAILS

If VAWA is right for you, schedule an appointment to talk to us.

🛡️ What Is VAWA?

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) allows:

• Self-petitioning for lawful status without the abuser’s involvement.

• A path to a green card and work permit.

• Confidential protection — your abuser is never notified.

You're Not Alone — And You Don’t Have to Stay Silent

We know how hard it is to speak up, especially when your immigration status is tied to your abuser. At Burt and Cleveland, PC, we’ve helped countless survivors regain control of their lives and their future — with compassion, confidentiality, and strength.

You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to stay.

• You were abused (physically, emotionally, or psychologically) by a:

  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse

  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent

  • U.S. citizen child

• You lived with the abuser and have good moral character.

🔍 Do You Qualify?

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)

Everything You Need to Know About VAWA Self-Petitions

VAWA allows victims of abuse to apply for a green card without their abuser’s knowledge or assistance.

Who Qualifies:

• Spouses, children, or parents of abusive U.S. citizens or LPRs

Key Benefits:

• Confidential application

• Work permit and green card eligibility

• Path to permanent residency and independence

Evidence:

• Police reports, affidavits, therapy records, personal statements

📙 Case Study: Marisol's Escape from Abuse Marisol, originally from Honduras, suffered emotional and physical abuse from her U.S. citizen husband. Afraid and undocumented, she turned to our firm. We filed a VAWA petition with strong evidence. Today, Marisol holds her green card, works legally, and lives in safety with her daughter.

💡 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for VAWA Without a Lawyer

1. Determine Eligibility You must be the spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or LPR who abused you.

2. Prepare Form I-360 Gather documents proving your relationship and abuse, such as:

• Marriage or birth certificates

• Police or medical records

• Personal affidavits

3. File Form I-360 with USCIS Include your statement describing the abuse and evidence of good moral character.

4. File Form I-485 for a Green Card (if eligible) You may be able to file at the same time if an immigrant visa is immediately available.

5. Attend Biometrics and Wait for a Decision You will receive a notice for fingerprints and updates on your petition.

⚠️ Important Warning

VAWA requires careful documentation. Many applicants struggle to explain abuse or lack supporting evidence. Your abuser will NOT be notified, but mistakes can delay protection.

✔️ Our Advice

We've helped many survivors apply safely. Let us help you build a strong, private case.

📞 We offer confidential VAWA strategy sessions.
🗓️ [Schedule a VAWA Consultation]

💼 Why Burt and Cleveland, PC?

At Burt and Cleveland, PC, we treat every client like family. We understand the fear, confusion, and pain that come with being a victim — especially when your immigration status is uncertain.

Here’s why clients choose us:

• Experienced, compassionate immigration attorneys

• Fluent Spanish-speaking team

• We handle VAWA cases nationwide

• Affordable flat fees and flexible payment plans

• Free, confidential consultations