Legal Protection for Immigrant Survivors of Abuse

Vawa Immigration Relief: Empowering Immigrant Survivors To Reclaim Their Future

Immigrant survivors of domestic violence often face unimaginable fear—not just from abuse but from the threat of losing immigration status or being deported. Thankfully, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) offers a lifeline.

VAWA allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to self-petition for immigration relief—without the abuser’s help or knowledge.

At Reana Garcia Law Group, we provide compassionate, confidential, and skilled representation for VAWA applicants throughout New Jersey. We understand your courage—and we’re here to protect your rights and help you move forward.

What Is Vawa Self-petition?

VAWA is a humanitarian immigration provision that allows eligible survivors to apply for lawful immigration status without relying on their abuser. If approved, the applicant can:

• Remain in the U.S. lawfully
• Obtain work authorization
• Eventually, apply for a green card (lawful permanent residency)

Your petition is confidential. The abuser will not be notified.

Who Qualifies For Vawa Protection?

You may be eligible for a VAWA self-petition if:

• You are (or were) the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and experienced abuse
• You are the child (under 21) of a U.S. citizen or LPR who abused you
• You are the parent of a U.S. citizen child who abused you
• You lived with the abuser at some point
• You can demonstrate good moral character
  
• You suffered battery or extreme cruelty (physical, emotional, or psychological)

Men and women of all backgrounds may apply—VAWA protection is not limited by gender.

Forms Of Abuse That Qualify Under Vawa

• Physical violence
• Threats of deportation or immigration sabotage
• Verbal, emotional, or psychological abuse
• Isolation and control over finances, documents, or mobility
• Sexual abuse or coercion

If you’ve been made to feel powerless or fearful by a spouse or family member—and they are a U.S. citizen or green card holder—you may qualify.

Benefits Of A Vawa Self-petition

• You control your immigration process, not the abuser
• Confidential filing—the abuser will not be contacted
• Work authorization through deferred action or adjustment of status
• Access to lawful permanent residence (green card) if eligible
• May include unmarried children under 21 in your petition

For many survivors, VAWA is a path not just to legal status—but to freedom and safety.

How The Vawa Process Works

1. Private Consultation
   We meet with you confidentially to review your eligibility and build a safety-focused strategy.
2. VAWA Petition Filing (Form I-360)
   We prepare and submit a detailed petition with supporting documents, including declarations, police reports, medical records, and letters.
3. USCIS Review
   USCIS reviews the evidence and issues a decision. In the meantime, work permits may be available under deferred action.
4. Green Card Application (I-485)
   If you are eligible, we assist with adjusting your status to lawful permanent resident.

Throughout this process, we remain your legal advocate—offering not just representation but support.

How Reana Garcia Law Group Supports Vawa Clients

• Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Legal Care
  We understand the courage it takes to come forward. Our team is trained to work with survivors respectfully and without judgment.
• Privacy & Confidentiality
  Your safety is our top priority. All communications and filings are handled with utmost discretion.
• Strong Petition Building
  We gather comprehensive documentation to support your petition—including sworn declarations, expert letters, and corroborating evidence.
• Bilingual Support in English and Spanish
  We give every client the opportunity to share their story clearly and confidently.

Who Should Seek Vawa Relief?

You may benefit from VAWA immigration relief if:

• You’re afraid to report abuse because of your immigration status
• Your spouse or parent threatens deportation or withholds immigration paperwork
• You’ve left an abusive relationship and want to protect your future
• You’re undocumented and feel trapped in a harmful home
  
• You’ve been denied status because of the abuser’s control
  

You are not alone, and you have legal rights under U.S. immigration law.

Why Choose Reana Garcia Law Group?

• Survivor-Centered Advocacy
  We know how to navigate complex relationships and trauma with respect and sensitivity.
• Experienced VAWA Representation
  Our firm has helped many immigrant survivors in New Jersey secure legal status and reclaim their lives.
• Accessible, Judgment-Free Legal Help
  No matter your background or situation, we’re here to help you feel safe, heard, and empowered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a police report or restraining order to qualify for VAWA?
No. While helpful, they are not required. Your own statement and other supporting documents may be enough.

Can I still apply if I’m divorced from the abuser?
Yes—if the divorce occurred within 2 years of filing the VAWA petition and was connected to the abuse.

Will the abuser be contacted?
No. VAWA petitions are strictly confidential. USCIS will not inform the abuser of your application.

Related Services

• U Visa for Victims of Crime
• Green Card Application Through VAWA
• I-601 Waivers for Inadmissibility
• Adjustment of Status
• Removal Defense for Survivors
• Humanitarian Immigration Options

You Have A Right To Safety, Dignity, And Legal Status

VAWA exists to protect immigrant survivors from being forced to choose between safety and deportation. If you or someone you love is suffering in silence, let Reana Garcia Law Group be your voice and your advocate.

📞 Call (201) 983-4012(201) 983-4012 for a confidential consultation
📍22 Chestnut St, Rutherford, NJ 07070
Your story matters—and your freedom is worth fighting for.