Immigration Lawyer in Los Angeles
Humanitarian Immigration Relief for Victims of Crime and Abuse
Our immigration attorneys are based in Los Angeles and represent clients throughout California and across the United States. Because immigration law is federal, we are able to assist clients nationwide with many immigration matters.
United States immigration law provides several forms of humanitarian protection for individuals who have been victims of crime, abuse, or human trafficking. These protections were created to help vulnerable individuals obtain safety, stability, and legal status.
Programs such as the U Visa, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and the T Visa allow certain victims to remain in the United States and receive work authorization. In many cases, these programs may also provide a path toward lawful permanent residence.
Our Los Angeles immigration lawyers help clients evaluate their situation, determine eligibility, and guide them through every step of the immigration process.
Our Humanitarian Immigration Services
Our Los Angeles immigration lawyers assist individuals and families with several types of immigration relief designed to protect victims of crime and abuse. These services include: U Visa for victims of certain qualifying crimes VAWA petitions for victims of domestic violence or abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member T Visa for victims of human trafficking Determining the best immigration option depends on the facts of each case, the type of harm suffered, and the available evidence.
U Visa Lawyer in Los Angeles
What Is a U Visa
The U Visa is an immigration benefit available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial physical or emotional harm and who assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime. The program was created to encourage victims of crime to report criminal activity without fear of immigration consequences. Individuals who receive U Visa status may remain in the United States legally for up to four years and may apply for employment authorization. In many cases, U Visa holders may become eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence after maintaining U Visa status for three years.
Who May Qualify for a U Visa
An individual may qualify for a U Visa if they: Were the victim of a qualifying crime that occurred in the United States Suffered substantial physical or emotional harm as a result of the crime Possess information about the criminal activity Have helped, are helping, or are likely to help law enforcement investigate or prosecute the crime Applicants must also be admissible to the United States or qualify for an immigration waiver if necessary.
Crimes That May Qualify
Domestic violence Sexual assault Human trafficking Kidnapping Aggravated assault Stalking Extortion False imprisonment
Family Members
Certain family members may also qualify for immigration benefits through the U Visa application, including spouses and unmarried children.
Benefits of the U Visa
Temporary legal status in the United States Eligibility to apply for a work permit Protection from removal in certain circumstances Potential eligibility for lawful permanent residence
VAWA Immigration Lawyer in Los Angeles
What Is VAWA
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain victims of abuse to apply for immigration benefits independently of the abusive family member. Although the name refers to women, the law protects both men and women who have experienced abuse by a qualifying relative who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. VAWA allows eligible individuals to file a self-petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services without the knowledge or participation of the abusive family member.
Who May Qualify for VAWA
Individuals who may qualify for VAWA include: Spouses abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident Children abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent Parents abused by an adult U.S. citizen child Applicants must generally demonstrate that the relationship was legitimate, that abuse occurred, and that they have good moral character.
Types of Abuse Recognized Under VAWA
Abuse under VAWA is not limited to physical violence. It may also include emotional abuse, psychological abuse, threats or intimidation, and financial control.
Benefits of VAWA
Work authorization Potential eligibility for lawful permanent residence Immigration protection without relying on the abusive family member
T Visa Lawyer in Los Angeles
What Is a T Visa
The T Visa is a humanitarian immigration program created to protect victims of human trafficking. Human trafficking occurs when individuals are forced, deceived, or coerced into performing labor or commercial sex acts. Victims of trafficking may qualify for T nonimmigrant status, which allows them to remain in the United States and apply for work authorization.
Who May Qualify for a T Visa
An individual may qualify for a T Visa if they: Are a victim of severe human trafficking Are present in the United States because of trafficking Cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of trafficking Would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the United States
Benefits of the T Visa
Legal status in the United States for up to four years Eligibility to apply for a work permit Ability to include certain family members Potential eligibility for lawful permanent residence
Schedule a Consultation
If you or a loved one may qualify for a U Visa, VAWA petition, or T Visa, our immigration attorneys can evaluate your situation and explain your legal options. Our Los Angeles immigration lawyers represent clients throughout California and nationwide in humanitarian immigration matters. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your immigration options.