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Guide for Crime Victims
If you’re a victim of a crime in the United States, a U visa lawyer can help you find a pathway to legal status so you can stay in the country.
Learn more about the benefits of working with a U visa lawyer near you and the U visa application process.
Table of Contents
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What is a U Visa?
The U nonimmigrant visa is a special status that protects victims of certain crimes. This visa not only safeguards victims but also encourages cooperation with law enforcement.
Benefits of Working with a U Visa Lawyer
- Legal Work Authorization: You can legally work in the United States after getting a U visa.
- Pathway to a Green Card: After holding a U visa for three years and meeting other conditions, U visa holders may apply for permanent residency through adjustment of status.
- Protection from Deportation: The U visa helps victims remain in the U.S. on a safer, more stable pathway.
- Derivative Visas for Family Members: Eligible family members may also receive certain protections under the U Visa.
A U Visa Lawyer Can Help You Determine Your Eligibility
A U Visa lawyer has the skills to evaluate your eligibility for a U visa. Generally, you must meet the following criteria:
- You are the victim of a qualifying crime: Qualifying crimes may include domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, manslaughter, extortion, and other serious offenses.
- You suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result: Your lawyer will help gather evidence to prove the harm you endured.
- You have information about the criminal activity: Applicants must provide relevant and helpful information to law enforcement efforts.
- The incident happened in the United States or violated U.S. laws: A U Visa application must involve a crime under U.S. jurisdiction.
- You have been or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement: Cooperation with law enforcement is a critical element of the U Visa process.
How Can a U Visa Lawyer Prove I’m a Victim of a Qualifying Crime?
A U Visa lawyer’s goal is to collect and present evidence for your case, which may include:
- Police reports.
- Witness statements.
- Medical records for any physical injuries.
- Psychological evaluations.
- Communication and cooperation with law enforcement.
Request A Consultation Today To Discuss Your Families Options.
U Visa Application Process
Submit Form I-918 and Supporting Evidence
Your U visa lawyer will help you compile and submit any evidence that you were a victim of a qualifying crime including Form I-918 (Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status) and the I-918B Supplement with a signature from the law enforcement official involved in the case. They will submit your application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Monitoring Your Case
A U Visa lawyer monitors your case to track progress and respond to additional USCIS requests, such as Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Adjunct Legal Support
If family members are included as derivative beneficiaries, your U visa lawyer will help file additional petitions to secure their statuses.
Do I Need a U Visa Lawyer Near Me to Speak with Local Law Enforcement?
Before applying for a U Visa, you must obtain Form 1-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification. This certificate demonstrates your willingness to assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting a crime.
However, many applicants wonder if they need a U visa lawyer nearby to complete this phase. Having one near you can be advantageous, especially if in-person consultations or court appearances become necessary.
Talk to a U Visa Lawyer from Laura Báez Torres Law
With years of experience in immigration law, our U visa lawyers have helped clients build strong cases to get an approved U visa.
Request a consultation with Laura Báez Torres Law today and get the justice you deserve!
