Coming to and living in a new country is always challenging. However, the challenges multiply when you suffer abuse at the hands of someone who is supposed to love you. Your abuser might tell you that you can’t leave because of your immigration status. However, a Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) lawyer in South Florida can help you self-petition to become a lawful permanent resident without the abuser knowing. This can be your key to breaking free from your abuser. Our South Florida VAWA lawyer understands the urgency of these cases and will take quick action during each step of the process. The U.S. government is also on your side, so you can expect an expedited process if you’re a victim of abuse.

Who Is Eligible to File a Self-petition for a Green Card?

The Violence Against Women Act protects men, women, and children. The following people can self-petition: Abused spouses of permanent residents or U.S. citizens Parents of children who were abused by permanent residents or U.S. citizen spouses Parents of U.S. citizens who have been abused by their children Abused children of permanent residents or U.S. citizen parents

Proving Abuse

You must prove that abuse took place to self-petition for a green card. The child, spouse, or parent who abused you might deny the claim. However, your VAWA attorney will collect and present evidence to support your claim. If you’ve discussed the abuse with mental or medical health professionals, your VAWA lawyer can request an affidavit to include with your petition. The attorney also might speak to your friends and relatives who know about the abuse. Also, if you have any photographic evidence, you’ll want to provide it to your attorney. You will also be asked to provide a written declaration that details the abuse. While this can be difficult, your attorney will provide support every step of the way.

Additional Evidence Needed

You must prove that you live or have lived with the abusive parent, child, or spouse and that person is a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen. In addition, you must provide evidence that shows you currently reside in the United States and are of good moral character. While proving your moral character sounds complicated, it’s actually easier than you might think. Your lawyer will obtain declarations from friends and family members as evidence of your character. Your VAWA lawyer in South Florida will also discuss any additional evidence required. Then, you can provide the attorney with the evidence you have, and he or she will gather the rest.

Can You Qualify If You Suffered Verbal Abuse?

The U.S. court system understands that not all abuse is physical. Verbal abuse can be just as damaging, so you can still qualify for a green card under the VAWA Act. While verbal abuse is more challenging to prove, you can support your claim with affidavits from witnesses and declarations from counselors or psychiatrists. It’s important to use an experienced VAWA lawyer in South Florida when proving verbal abuse. The Santos Law Offices is experienced in gathering evidence for all types of cases and can help you with your claim. It’s important to understand that you’re still a victim if you suffer verbal abuse, which can escalate to physical violence. Get help now, while you still can.

Bilingual Support

If you don’t speak English, the thought of getting help can be terrifying. You’re worried about going to a lawyer that doesn’t speak your native language, making it impossible to detail the abuse you’ve suffered. The Santos Law Offices provides legal services in English and Spanish. Thus, you can communicate with us, and we can explain the process to you in a language you understand. It’s much easier to feel at ease and in control when communicating in your native language. Schedule a free consultation to speak to us in English or Spanish.

Why Choose Santos Law Offices