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Your Path to Safety & Legal Status Through VAWA

  • Experienced VAWA immigration attorneys.
  • Step-by-step legal guidance throughout the process.
  • Affordable legal fees with clear pricing.
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Briefly Explain VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a landmark federal law in the United States designed to protect survivors of domestic violence, abuse, and extreme cruelty. It allows certain spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to apply for immigration benefits independently, without the knowledge or involvement of their abuser.

VAWA provides survivors with a pathway to safety, independence, and lawful immigration status in the U.S., ensuring they are not trapped in abusive relationships due to fear of deportation or immigration consequences.

What Is the VAWA Self-Petition?

A VAWA self-petition is a legal mechanism that allows eligible victims of abuse to apply for a Green Card and work authorization on their own. Unlike other immigration processes, a self-petitioner does not need the cooperation of the abusive family member. This confidential process protects the victim’s privacy and provides the ability to build an independent life while pursuing lawful status in the U.S.

Types of Abuse That Qualify for VAWA

VAWA recognizes a wide range of abusive behaviors, including:

Physical Abuse

Hitting, slapping, punching, or any act of violence.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual assault, coercion, or harassment.

Psychological or Emotional Abuse

Threats, intimidation, manipulation, or controlling behaviors.

Extreme Cruelty

Any behavior that causes fear, harm, or endangers well-being.

Evidence of abuse can come from police reports, medical records, affidavits, or documentation of restraining orders, though even in the absence of official reports, Raju Law helps survivors gather credible evidence to support their petition.

Who Qualifies for VAWA?

Eligible petitioners include:

  • Spouses of U.S. citizens or Green Card holders who have been abused.
  • Children under 21 (unmarried) of U.S. citizens or Green Card holders who have suffered abuse.
  • Parents of U.S. citizens (21 or older) who have been victims of abuse.

The law ensures that anyone in a qualifying family relationship who experiences abuse has the opportunity to seek legal protection and self-petition for immigration relief.

Eligibility Requirements for a VAWA Self-Petition

To successfully file a VAWA petition, applicants must demonstrate:

A Qualifying Relationship

Proof that the abuser is a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder and that the survivor has a legal relationship (spouse, child, or parent).

Residency with the Abuser

Evidence that the petitioner lived with the abusive individual.

Evidence of Abuse

Documentation proving domestic violence, extreme cruelty, or abuse.

Good Moral Character

Applicants must show that they have good moral character, which can be supported with personal, professional, or community records.

Raju Law works closely with clients to ensure every element is documented and presented effectively, increasing the likelihood of approval.

Step-by-Step VAWA Application Process

Confidential Consultation

At Raju Law, your privacy and safety are our top priorities. We provide a supportive, judgment-free environment where clients can share their experiences confidentially. Every detail is kept secure, and our attorneys listen carefully to understand the unique circumstances of each case.

Confidential Consultation

Eligibility Evaluation

Our team carefully reviews your background, relationship history, and supporting documentation. We identify potential challenges, assess eligibility, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your specific needs.

Eligibility Evaluation

Preparation of Forms & Evidence

Filing Form I-360 (VAWA Self-Petition) Organizing supporting documents such as police reports, restraining orders, medical and psychological records, and affidavits from friends, family, or community members Ensuring every piece of evidence strongly supports the claim of abuse

Preparation of Forms & Evidence

Work Authorization & Deferred Action

While your petition is pending, you may apply for a work permit using Form I-765, enabling you to work legally in the U.S. and support yourself and your family. Deferred action protections allow you to remain in the country safely during this period.

Work Authorization & Deferred Action

Adjustment of Status (Green Card)

Once the I-360 petition is approved, clients can apply for lawful permanent residence via Form I-485. Our attorneys guide applicants through every step, ensuring proper filing, documentation, and compliance with USCIS requirements.

Adjustment of Status (Green Card)

Ongoing Legal Support

VAWA cases can be long and emotionally challenging. Raju Law provides continued support, including responding to USCIS requests, attending interviews, and addressing any issues that arise until you obtain permanent residency.

Ongoing Legal Support

VAWA Fees & Processing Time

VAWA Lawyer Cost – Raju Law

  • VAWA Application (Form I-360) - $2,500
  • Green Card Application (Form I-485) - $1,200
  • Plus shipment charges

USCIS Filing Fee

$0 for Form I-360

Processing Time

Form I-360
16-24 months 100%
Adjustment of Status
12-24 months 100%

Processing times depend on USCIS workload and case complexity. We’ll keep you updated throughout the entire process.

Common Challenges in VAWA Cases & How We Overcome Them

Writ of Mandamus Lawyer
  • Difficulty proving abuse without police or medical records
  • Collecting affidavits from family, friends, or community members
  • Demonstrating good moral character
  • Long USCIS processing times

Raju Law Solutions: We carefully prepare every detail of your case, organize strong evidence, and develop a strategic approach to maximize approval chances.

What Happens After a VAWA Petition is Approved?

After approval:

  • File for Adjustment of Status to obtain a Green Card
  • Apply for Employment Authorization (EAD) to work legally
  • Request Advance Parole for travel abroad while the case is pending
  • Gain independence from the abuser, no longer relying on their cooperation for immigration benefits

What Happens if a VAWA Petition is Denied?

  • Raju Law reviews the denial to identify grounds for appeal or re-filing
  • Assistance is provided for Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or motions to reopen/reconsider
  • Our attorneys guide clients step by step to improve the chances of success in subsequent filings

Why Choose Raju Law for Your VAWA Case?

Expertise in Immigration Law
Proven success in complex VAWA cases
Compassionate Legal Team
Client-centered, respectful, and supportive
Strong Track Record
High approval rates for VAWA petitions
Confidential Support
Confidential Support
Accessible & Affordable
Flexible payment options with transparent fees

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, USCIS may schedule an interview, and Raju Law provides complete preparation and representation.

Yes, we offer a confidential initial consultation to assess your eligibility and discuss your options.

We assist with Form I-485 filing, documentation, and ensure full compliance with USCIS for adjustment of status.

Yes, we assist eligible applicants regardless of their current location.

All information is securely handled, and the abuser is never notified.

Expertise, compassionate support, a strong record of approvals, and a commitment to client safety and privacy.

Yes, we review prior denials, identify deficiencies, and refile or appeal to maximize your chances of approval.

Our All Branch Location

Washington DC Office

  • 4520 East-West Hwy #750 Bethesda, MD 20814
  • +1 301-919-3610

Los Angeles Office

  • 3450 Wilshire Blvd., level- 12 Suite 1200-109, CA 90010
  • +1 (323) 824-4179, +1 (323) 824-6444

Atlanta Office

  • 5465 Buford Hwy NE, Suite 103, Doraville, GA 30340
  • +1 770-655-9166, +1 458-272-5793

New York Office

  • 118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 400 Forest Hills, NY 11375
  • +1 934-345-7003, +1 347-472-7050
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