Learn How Long It Takes to Process a VAWA Petition

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is an important piece of legislation that provides protections for victims of domestic violence and other crimes. It was passed by Congress in 1994 to ensure survivors have access to justice, safety from their abusers, and support services. Unfortunately, due to a backlog on these petitions, the processing time can be lengthy.

At Musa-Obregon Law PC we understand how difficult it can be for those who are seeking relief through VAWA protection orders or applications for U visas or green cards based on the abuse they suffered. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate this process as quickly as possible with care and compassion. We strive to provide our clients with knowledgeable advice throughout the entire duration of their case so they can achieve the best outcome possible within legal parameters.

More About VAWA and Its Eligibility Requirements

VAWA is a federal law that provides protections to victims of domestic violence and other related crimes. It was enacted in 1994 to ensure survivors have access to safety, justice, and support services. VAWA has been instrumental in reducing the incidence of domestic violence by providing legal remedies such as protection orders for those who need them. Furthermore, VAWA also grants certain immigration-related benefits such as U visas and green cards for victims of qualifying abuse.

Who is Eligible for VAWA?

• Non-citizen victims of domestic violence or other crimes
• Immediate family members of the non-citizen victim
• Certain people who have suffered “substantial battery or extreme cruelty” by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent

Criteria That Must Be Met for VAWA Self-Petitions:

• The petition must be filed within two years of leaving the abusive relationship
• The abuser must be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse or parent
• The petitioner must show good moral character
• The petitioner must demonstrate that they have suffered extreme cruelty from their abuser
• The petitioner must provide evidence of their relationship with the abuser

How Long Does it Take to Process a VAWA Petition?

The processing times for VAWA petitions can vary depending on the case and the backlog of applications. Generally speaking, however, you should expect the process to take anywhere from 6 months to a year or longer. It is important to note that if your application is denied based on any of the criteria listed above, there may be additional delays in obtaining your immigration benefits.

The attorneys at Musa-Obregon Law PC are here to help provide you with knowledgeable advice and support throughout this challenging time. Our experienced team of New York City attorneys are staunch advocates of VAWA and will work tirelessly to make sure that your case is processed as quickly and efficiently as possible so that you can receive the protection and justice you deserve.

How Our New York City VAWA Immigration Attorneys Can Help

At Musa-Obregon Law PC we are dedicated to helping you obtain the legal protections you need through VAWA as soon as possible. Our experienced attorneys have handled thousands of these cases throughout their careers and understand how important it is for our clients’ safety and future security. We will work with you to ensure that all the criteria for a VAWA petition are met, and help you navigate the processing period so that you can receive the justice and relief you deserve.

Some of the ways we can help our clients with the VAWA process:

• • Helping with the preparation of the necessary paperwork
  • Ensuring all criteria for eligibility are met
  • Assisting with required evidence gathering
  • Advising on appeals or motions to reopen a denied case
  • Tracking the progress of the petition
  • Filing for applicable benefits, such as U visas or green cards based on abuse suffered
  • Filing for a VAWA green card, which allows certain non-citizen victims of domestic violence and other related crimes to become lawful permanent residents in the United States
  • Obtaining employment authorization through the U visa program, which allows eligible non-citizens to work in the United States while their applications are under review
  • Assisting with appeals or motions to reopen a denied case

Our experienced team of New York City attorneys is well-versed in this area of law and will provide knowledgeable advice throughout your case. We understand how difficult it can be to obtain protection orders and immigration benefits under VAWA and strive to provide our clients with compassionate care throughout the process.

If you have been a victim of domestic violence, contact our experienced New York City attorneys at Musa-Obregon Law PC and we will provide you with the knowledgeable advice and support you need. We understand how challenging this time can be and promise to work tirelessly to make sure your VAWA petition is processed as quickly as possible.

Contact us today for a free consultation by dialing (888) 502-8461 or contacting us online.