U Visas

Experienced U Visa Attorneys In Los Angeles Offering Compassionate Legal Guidance

Victims of crimes deserve protection and justice, particularly when they have endured harm while helping law enforcement investigate or prosecute offenders. The U visa program offers a path to lawful immigration status for individuals who have been victims of certain qualifying crimes.

At American Immigration Law Firm LLP, our dedicated immigration attorneys represent crime victims in Los Angeles, across California, throughout the United States and internationally. Founders Mariano F. Herrera and Juliette Potter are immigrants themselves and are deeply committed to helping clients secure safety, stability, and legal protection through U visa relief.

Understanding The Purpose Of The U Visa

The U visa was created to encourage victims of serious crimes to come forward and assist law enforcement without fearing immigration consequences. It offers temporary legal status to those who have suffered significant physical or emotional trauma and have been or will be helpful in criminal investigations or prosecutions.

Who May Qualify For U Visa Protection?

To qualify for U visa protection under U.S. immigration law, applicants must meet specific requirements, including:

  • Qualifying crimes: Victims of crimes such as domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, kidnapping, robbery, or homicide.
  • Significant harm: Experienced substantial physical or psychological abuse resulting from the crime.
  • Cooperation: Provided, or is willing to provide, assistance to law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime.
  • Jurisdiction: The criminal activity occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws.

These conditions ensure that the program protects victims while supporting public safety efforts.

Steps In The U Visa Application Process

Applying for a U visa requires careful documentation and attention to procedural details. The process begins with filing Form I-918, along with Form I-918, Supplement B — a certification completed by a law enforcement agency confirming that the applicant was a victim of a qualifying crime and cooperated in the investigation or prosecution.

Key Benefits Of U Visa Status

Approval of a U visa grants several important protections and opportunities, including:

  • Temporary legal status allowing the victim to remain in the U.S. lawfully
  • Authorization to work and support oneself and family members
  • Eligibility to apply for lawful permanent residency after three years
Get Trusted Help With Your U Visa Application

If you are a victim of crime seeking protection through a U visa, our compassionate legal team is ready to help. Contact American Immigration Law Firm LLP at 323-805-0445 or reach us online to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney who understands your challenges and will fight for your right to safety and stability in the United States.

Employment Visas

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Contact Me:

Practice Areas:

  • Immigration Law
  • Affirmative and Defensive Asylum
  • Employment Immigration
  • Cancelation of Removal
  • Credible Fear Inerview

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida
  • Miami – 2020
  • Honors: Dean’s List
Universidad Francisco Gavidia, San Salvador
  • B.S. – 2008
  • Major: Engineering

Representative Clients

  • Hispanic

Current Employment Position

  • Senior Partner

Mariano F. Herrera

Mariano Herrera is a passionate and dedicated United States Immigration Attorney originally from El Salvador, Central America. His personal journey as an immigrant to the United States inspired him to pursue a career devoted to helping others navigate the complex path of immigration law. After earning his Juris Doctor from Florida International University (FIU) College of Law and passing the bar exam, Mariano began his practice as an immigration attorney with an unwavering commitment to advocacy and justice. Drawing on his own immigrant experience, Mariano deeply understands the hopes and challenges faced by those seeking a new life in America. He brings empathy, precision, and determination to every case, representing clients before the Immigration Courts and USCIS. His mission is simple yet profound — to help as many immigrants as possible realize their American dream. Mariano’s legal expertise covers a wide range of immigration matters, including business and employment immigration, family-based petitions, asylum, deportation defense, and naturalization. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and steadfast dedication, he ensures that each client receives personalized guidance and strong representation. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Mariano effectively serves a diverse community of clients from around the world. Beyond his legal practice, Mariano is actively engaged in community outreach and education. He regularly leads workshops and seminars to inform immigrants about their rights and legal options, and partners with nonprofit organizations to provide pro bono legal services to those in need. Outside the office, Mariano enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures, and discovering new cuisines — experiences that broaden his worldview and deepen his empathy for clients from all backgrounds. A passionate reader and keen follower of global affairs, he continually enriches his knowledge of immigration trends and international issues. Mariano Herrera’s journey from El Salvador to the United States, combined with his compassion and professional excellence, has made him a trusted advocate and a respected figure in the field of immigration law.

Past Positions

  • Brandis and Associates, Associate Attorney, Feb. 2022 – July 2022

Professional Associations

  • State Bar of Wisconsin, Member, 2020
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member, 2022 – 2023

Bar Admissions

  • El Salvador, 2003
  • Wisconsin, 2020
  • U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit
  • U.S. Immigration Court

Contact Me:

Practice Areas:

  • Immigration Law
  • Business Immigration
  • Employment Immigration
  • Family Based Immigration
  • Non-Immigrant Visas

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida

  • LL.M – 2020
  • Honors: Dean’s List

Bowling Greend State University, Bowling Green, Ohio

  • M.A.
  • Honors: Dean’s List

Representative Clients

  • Caribbean

Current Employment Position

  • Partner

Juliette A. Potter

Juliette Potter is a highly accomplished United States Immigration Attorney with over two decades of legal experience. She began her legal journey as a Barrister in the United Kingdom and was later admitted as an Attorney-at-Law in Antigua and Barbuda before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

Ms. Potter’s academic background is equally distinguished. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Florida International University College of Law, a Bachelor of Laws (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, and a Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica. She also earned a Master’s degree in Organization Development from Bowling Green State University’s College of Business in Ohio.

Her professional experience spans both the corporate and legal worlds. Before entering private immigration practice, she served as Chief Legal Officer for an international group of companies. Today, she is a Licensed Attorney in the State of New York, representing clients before the Federal Immigration Courts of the United States, while also maintaining her active law license in Antigua and Barbuda.

As an immigrant herself, Ms. Potter brings a unique perspective and deep empathy to her practice. Her personal experiences inspire her unwavering commitment to helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law with confidence and care.

Outside the courtroom, Ms. Potter enjoys cooking, traveling, and exploring new cuisines — passions that reflect her appreciation for diversity and global cultures, both in life and in law.

Past Positions

  • The Fairweather Group, Chief Legal Officer, 2012 to 2018
  • Elite Island Holding Company Ltd., Legal Counsel, 2005 to 2012

Professional Associations

  • New York State Bar Association, Member, 2022
  • Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association, Member, 2005
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member, 2023 – 2024

Bar Admissions

  • England and Wales, 2003
  • Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, 2005
  • New York, 2023