Where can we go to seek help? 7 Answers as of October 28, 2011

My daughter was married to a US citizen for 6 months. Right after they were married, he began to verbally and emotionally abuse her to the point that she has been traumatized. She has never called the police about this so there is no record. He also failed to sign form I-135 to adjust her status. Only I and two other friends are witnesses to what he has done to her. She is in the process of getting a divorce. Where can we seek help on her case?

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Law Offices of Kiran Nair
Law Offices of Kiran Nair | Kiran K. Nair
Your daughter can apply for VAWA (Violence Against Womens Act), however, because the police was never called, supportive evidence consisting of declarations signed under penalty of perjury by her and witnesses such as yourself would be essential. Moreover, if she fears for her safety then I recommend that she also seek restraining order as further evidence of fearing abuse. In addition, depending on when her conditional residence status expires, she could file to obtain legal permanent status by explaining the abuse rather than seek VAWA application. Please note that both application processes are extremely complicated requiring supportive evidence and therefore, I recommend that your daughter consult with an attorney.
Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 10/28/2011
Law Office of Eric Fisher | Eric Fisher
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) may be available to help your daughter obtain lawful permanent residency. You should have her speak with an immigration attorney knowledgeable about VAWA relief.
Answer Applies to: Colorado
Replied: 10/26/2011
Reza Athari & Associates, PLLC
Reza Athari & Associates, PLLC | Reza Athari
The abuse woman self petition (VAWA) may be based on physical or mental abuse.
Answer Applies to: Nevada
Replied: 10/26/2011
Law Offices of Kenneth Wincorn P.C.
Law Offices of Kenneth Wincorn P.C. | Kenneth Wincorn
Your daughter needs to seek the help of an immigration attorney to determine if she qualifies for an application based on the domestic violence she may have suffered under the Violence Against Women's Act.
Answer Applies to: Texas
Replied: 10/26/2011
LAW OFFICES OF ALAN R. DIAMATNE APLC
LAW OFFICES OF ALAN R. DIAMATNE APLC | Alan R. Diamante
She needs to contact an immigration attorney, preferably a certified specialist. She might be eligible for an I-360 however more facts are required.
Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 10/25/2011
Law Office of Immigration & International Trade Law
Law Office of Immigration & International Trade Law | Linda Liang
If you are local in Florida, you are welcome to contact our firm for assistance. Sounds like she is eligible to obtain green card as a battered wife.
Answer Applies to: Florida
Replied: 10/25/2011
Law Offices of Grinberg and Segal
Law Offices of Grinberg and Segal | Alexander Segal
Your daughter may be able to file a self-petition based upon domestic violence. This requires her to show her marriage was bona fide and that she was subjected to battery and/or extreme cruelty. This can be accomplished with her own statement as well as the statements of witnesses and other supporting documents. There is no requirement of a police report. It is in your daughter's best interest to speak with an immigration attorney as soon as possible. There are deadlines to filing a petition once a person is divorced.
Answer Applies to: New York
Replied: 10/25/2011
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