Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

About The Violence Against Women Act and U Visas

The American immigration system has important features that emphasize the following:

  • Fear of deportation should not prevent crimes from being reported and prosecuted. 
  • Domestic abuse is illegal.

Many women are afraid to leave abusive partners or report criminal behavior for fear of being deported and being separated from their children. In many cases abusers threaten to report the undocumented victim to the authorities, which could lead to the victim being deported.

  • U Visas grant legal status and a work permit to immigrants willing to report the crime and assist law enforcement in the prosecution of the offenders. 
  • The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows women (and men) to take control of their immigration status and processing so that they no longer have to rely on an abusive partner or family member. 

Don’t assume that you may not be eligible for these protections, even if your applications have been denied in the past. Immigration law is a constantly evolving system that has increased the allowances and created new ways for those suffering abuse to take control of their immigration status, find safety, and seek justice. An experienced immigration lawyer is vital to navigating this complex system and taking advantage of America’s many resources dedicated to helping victims of abuse. Nassim Arzani is exactly such.

To learn more about the ways her firm secures justice for immigrants in Southern California, visit her blog.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) protects victims of crime by providing a pathway to permanent legal residency. Individuals who have experienced – or are currently experiencing – battery at the hands of their spouse can self-petition for a Green Card. 

Permanent Residency for Battered Women

If you need help navigating the complexities of immigration court, please contact Nassim Arzani, Esq. Ms. Arzani has vast reserves of knowledge in the field of immigration law. She understands the complications and complexities of the naturalization process, even if you have a criminal record.