VAWA Attorney in Jacksonville

Helping You Through the Green Card Self-Petition Process

If you are the victim of abuse by your U.S.-born spouse, our lawyer at the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre has the knowledge and skill to provide the legal guidance you need to self-petition for a green card. Understanding the urgency of these types of situations and the complexities of the application process, we will provide compassionate and efficient counsel to help ensure you meet VAWA eligibility requirements and submit necessary forms.

What Is VAWA?

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law that was passed in 1994 to offer protections to women who were the victims of abuse. Specific provisions under VAWA allow foreign-born individuals married to U.S. citizens to self-petition for immigrant status if their spouse harmed them. The law allows for both men and women who were subject to offenses such as battery, forced detention, sexual abuse, threats, or assault to apply for a green card without requiring sponsorship or consent from their abuser or leaving the U.S. In some situations, children or parents of U.S. citizens are protected under this law.

What Are the Application Requirements?

To be able to self-petition for immigrant status, you must prove:

• You were the victim of battery or extreme cruelty
• You are/were married to or are the parent or child of the abuser
• The abuser is a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the U.S.
• Your marriage was genuine
• You have good moral character

To apply, you must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Resident or Adjust Status. You must also have an approved Form I-360 to qualify for immigrant status. When submitting the forms, you must attach documentation to support your claims, which can include medical records and your marriage certificate.

Our Jacksonville VAWA attorney will help you understand the laws and requirements regarding this process to ensure you successfully petition for a change of status.

Get Quality Legal Assistance from the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre

Backed by extensive experience handling immigration law matters, our lawyer has a thorough knowledge of the complicated filing process and knows how to submit forms to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. We understand the emotional aspects of this type of case, and we are ready to provide legal support throughout the entire process.