VAWA Lawyer in California: Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence

At Sadri Law, PC, our dedicated VAWA lawyer, Elham Sadri, provides compassionate legal support to victims of domestic violence in California, including San Jose helping them secure legal status through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). As experienced VAWA immigration lawyers, we guide clients through the self-petition process with confidentiality and care. Whether you’re a spouse, child, or parent abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, our VAWA immigration attorney is here to protect your safety and future.

What is a VAWA Self Petition?

A VAWA self-petition enables non-citizens abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse, parent, or child to apply for a green card independently. This VAWA law immigration process protects survivors from further harm and deportation, offering a path to permanent residency.

Unlike other immigration options, such as the visa VAWA confusion with U Visas, VAWA allows victims to take control of their immigration status without the abuser’s involvement.

learn more on our VAWA FAQ page

Who Qualifies for a VAWA Self-Petition?

You may be eligible for a VAWA self-petition if you’ve been abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who is your:

• Spouse (current or former, including same-sex marriages).
• Parent (if you’re a child, including stepchildren).
• Child (if you’re a parent of a U.S. citizen aged 21 or older).

Abuse includes battery or extreme cruelty, such as physical harm, emotional manipulation, or economic control. Our VAWA immigration lawyer evaluates your case to confirm eligibility and builds a compelling petition.

Steps to File a VAWA Self-Petition

The immigration VAWA process involves several key steps:

1. File Form I-360
   Submit the Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant to USCIS.
2. Provide Evidence
   Include proof of the relationship (e.g., marriage certificate) and abuse (e.g., police reports).
3. Biometrics Appointment
   Attend fingerprinting and background checks.
4. Adjustment of Status
   Apply for a green card (Form I-485) if approved and eligible.

Processing typically takes 42 months, though timelines vary. Our VAWA immigration attorney ensures your application is thorough to minimize delays.

How Do I Prove Abuse?

Domestic violence is a severe criminal offense. Victims of abuse seeking self-petition must offer valid documentation and proof that they were subjected to extreme cruelty and abuse. Accusations are not enough for the court to make a fair judgment.
To substantiate your abuse claim, it will help our attorney to have the following in hand:

• A personal account of your marriage, including any documentation regarding violent incidences.
• Photographs of any injuries.
• Letters from a therapist, counselor, or mental health provider
• Police reports
• Medical records
• Witnesses

We play an essential role in gathering necessary evidence regarding abuse, helping you prepare a personal statement, and filing a VAWA self-petition to obtain a green card without the help of your spouse.

VAWA vs. U Visa: Key Differences

VAWA and U Visas both support victims, but they differ significantly. VAWA is for those abused by family members, leading to a green card, while U Visas are for victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement, offering temporary status.

Benefits of a VAWA Green Card

A VAWA green card offers

Permanent Residency

Live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

Protection from Deportation

Safety from removal proceedings.

Family Sponsorship

Petition for eligible family members.

Access to Benefits

Qualify for federal and state assistance programs.

Our VAWA attorney ensures you understand and maximize these benefits.

Why Choose Sadri Law, PC?

Sadri Law, PC stands out for its expertise in immigration VAWA cases. With offices in San Jose and New York, we serve clients across California, including San Jose and New York through virtual consultations.

Our VAWA lawyers offer:

• Compassionate Support
  We handle your case with sensitivity and confidentiality.
• Proven Expertise
  Successful outcomes in complex VAWA petitions
• Accessibility
  Virtual consultations for San Jose clients, ensuring convenience.
• Holistic Guidance
  From evidence collection to USCIS interviews, we’re with you every step.

Take the First Step Toward Safety

If you’re a victim of domestic violence seeking immigration relief, our experienced VAWA attorney at Sadri Law, PC is here to support you with trusted legal guidance. Book a risk-free consultation for $100 to evaluate your eligibility for a VAWA green card. If you choose to retain our services within 7 days, the consultation fee will be applied to your total legal service cost.

• Refund Guarantee:
  We also offer a Refund Guarantee for qualified new clientsif your case is not approved, you may be eligible for a full refund. During your consultation, the attorney will determine if your case qualifies for this guarantee.
• Consultation Options:
  You can choose to attend your consultation via Zoom or phone, and if the attorney confirms your case can be taken on, a one-hour in-person meeting will be scheduled to finalize your case strategy. To arrange an in-person consultation, please call (408) 416-3000.
• Purpose of the Consultation:
  The consultation allows our attorney to gather key information, assess any potential challenges, and craft a customized legal strategy tailored to your situation. We’re proud to serve clients in San Jose and across California, and we look forward to assisting you. For questions, call us at (408) 416-3000 or email us at info@sadri-law.com.