Gainesville Florida

Immigration Lawyer in Gainesville, Florida

5 Common Myths about the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions

The abuse must be physical. One requirement to qualify under VAWA is that the petitioner has been subjected to battery or extreme cruelty. Domestic violence may be physical, but verbal abuse or emotional abuse are also forms of domestic violence and depending on the specific circumstances, may amount to extreme cruelty.
Only women qualify for VAWA. Men are also victims of domestic violence and if they meet the requirements for VAWA, they may qualify for a self-petition.
There must be a police report. Although police reports will often demonstrate more than one of the requirements for VAWA such as residence with the abuser and battery or extreme cruelty, a police report is not a requirement to apply for a VAWA self-petition.
Immigration will contact your abuser. VAWA contains serval confidentiality provisions making it unlawful for the government to contact your abuser or inform them you have filed a self-petition.
You must be married to your abuser. You may still qualify for VAWA if your petition is filed within 2 years of your divorce from your abuser. Additionally, you may qualify for VAWA if you believed you were married to your abuser, but your marriage was invalid or unlawful.

Get started with our experienced and compassionate immigration team today. Call us at (904) 590-2689 or contact us online today.

What makes this firm great is more than just a reasonable rate, they are full service and have a professional staff to assist. They are extremely responsive and great at making their clients feel comfortable.

- Matt T.
From the first call with Karen and throughout the green card process, the steps were explained to me. They were exceptional when putting together all the documentation of my case and I got my green card without an interview.

- Carina P.
Every member of the team we dealt with was super welcoming and friendly and they took away all of the stress and uncertainty. Our application was approved way quicker than anticipated and with a minimum of stress.

- John D.
I was scared to start my immigration process but after speaking to Ms. Winston I finally had hope to take the next step. In less than a few months, I was approved for my PIP and received my green card a few months after.

- Irma P.

High Success Rate

Over almost 15 years of service, Karen Winston has an impressive record of keeping families together.
Reputation for Excellence

As an attorney and former law professor, Karen Winston is well-respected before USCIS, courts, and judges.
Immigration Is All We Do

We focus exclusively on Immigration services and are fully prepared for whatever your case may need.
Trustworthy Representation

Our dedicated team truly cares about each client, and we hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards.

We can serve you in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Contact us today!

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy