Victims of abuse who qualify under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) may apply for a green card to obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States. This process allows eligible individuals to adjust status without relying on the abuser for sponsorship.
VAWA Self-Petitioners: Spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have experienced battery or extreme cruelty. The petitioner must have an approved or concurrently filed I-360 VAWA petition.
Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate good moral character, continuous presence in the U.S., and eligibility for adjustment of status.
Evidence may include:
– Approved or pending I-360 VAWA petition
– Proof of abuse, such as police reports, medical records, affidavits, or shelter records
– Documentation of relationship to the U.S. citizen or permanent resident abuser
– Proof of lawful entry and continuous residence in the U.S.
– Medical, financial, or other documents supporting eligibility
Clear, thorough documentation is crucial to demonstrate eligibility for adjustment of status and ensure USCIS approval.
Obtaining a green card through VAWA allows survivors to:
– Gain lawful permanent residency independently of the abuser
– Obtain work authorization and the ability to travel
– Access social services and protections in the U.S.
– Eventually apply for U.S. citizenship
Proper preparation and documentation significantly increase the chances of a successful application.
We evaluate eligibility, help gather the necessary supporting documents, prepare and review your I-485 Adjustment of Status application, and manage the filing process. Our team ensures your application clearly demonstrates eligibility while maintaining confidentiality and safety.
To discuss your case and next steps, call 323-805-0445 to schedule a consultation with an experienced VAWA immigration attorney.
Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida
Bowling Greend State University, Bowling Green, Ohio
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.