Helping Crime Survivors

A safe space to obtain legal status

Support for survivors of crime

Suffering a traumatic incident can be devastating. It’s our mission to help you and your family turn a traumatic event into something positive by obtaining legal status in the United States.

U Visas

A U Visa may help you obtain temporary legal status if you are a survivor of certain serious crimes. We’ll collaborate with law enforcement agencies to establish your eligibility and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

VAWA

If you are a domestic abuse survivor and were married to a permanent resident or U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for residency under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). We have extensive experience with VAWA applications, including those made by men and LGBTQIA+ clients.

T Visas

If you are a survivor of trafficking, you may be eligible for a T visa. We’ll work together to establish eligibility and obtain the required certification while ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

“Chelsea has helped me in every way through the entire process and I highly recommend her as an attorney. She is a lovely person and someone you can trust. I will never get tired of thanking her for changing my life.”

- Former Client

FAQs

What will an attorney do for me?

We assist with determining your eligibility for the U or T Visa, filing the certification request with the relevant law enforcement agency, and preparing the necessary application forms and supporting documents. We also protect your rights throughout the legal process, help petition for eligible family members and file for employment authorization while you await USCIS’s decision and visa availability.

Who is eligible for a U Visa, T Visa, and VAWA protection?

These opportunities offer survivors of different serious crimes temporary protection and work permits in the United States. Here are the eligibility requirements for each:

U Visa:
In order to qualify for a U Visa, you must have suffered substantial harm as a result of a qualifying crime and been helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This visa grants temporary legal status for up to 4 years, with the option to apply for permanent residence after 3years.

T Visa (T nonimmigrant status):
The T visa is available to noncitizens who have survived severe forms of trafficking in person and helped law enforcement in the detection, investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking. If granted, you can remain in the U.S. and obtain a work permit, and may be eligible for permanent residence after 3 years of being physically present in the United States.

VAWA residency:
Survivors of domestic violence who are (or were) married to a permanent resident or a U.S. citizen may apply for residency under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). You must show that you were married in good faith, lived jointly with the abuser and suffered abuse or extreme cruelty during the relationship. VAWA is available to both men and women, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.

When will my U or T visa application be decided?

The wait times for U Visas can be over a decade long, due to the 10,000 visa cap placed by Congress. Similarly, Congress has limited the number of T nonimmigrant visas available to principal victims of trafficking to 5,000 visas each fiscal year. We can help you apply for an interim work permit while you wait. Applying for a U or T Visa can be a complex process and it requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of immigration law. Contact us to avoid having your U or T visa denied after waiting so many years.

Can I include my family members in my application?

Certain family members are eligible for derivative U or T nonimmigrant status. Generally, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old are eligible, and parents and unmarried siblings under 18 years old are eligible if you (the applicant) are under 21 years old. Similarly, if you are applying for VAWA as the spouse or child of an abusive U.S. citizen or resident, you may include your unmarried children under 21 years old.

How can we help?

If you’ve suffered and are seeking legal status, it is important to have knowledgeable legal representation on your side. We are committed to helping you obtain the relief you deserve, in a safe and empowering environment, ensuring you can move forward with your life with confidence and security.