Immigration can be a daunting process, particularly for those who have experienced domestic violence or abuse. For immigrants facing such challenges, the immigration provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) 8 U.S.C.S. § 1101 offer critical protections. At Youngblood & Associates, we are proud to support survivors in Murfreesboro and the Upper Cumberland area, providing compassionate, professional legal representation to help them navigate their immigration options.
With over a decade of experience, our firm’s founder, Kara Youngblood, has dedicated her career to helping clients overcome complex legal situations. We believe that your story matters and it guides every case we handle. By emphasizing the uniqueness of every client’s story and working hard to understand your unique circumstances, we are able to tailor an approach for you. Compassion and understanding are critical when you need a U-visa attorney to help you with immigration and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in Murfreesboro. En Espanol
VAWA was the first piece of federal legislation aimed at addressing the endemic gendered violence in American society. Initially passed in 1994, VAWA provides crucial protections for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and abuse. While the law targets gendered violence, it offers protections for victims without regard to gender or sexuality. For immigrants, VAWA includes specific provisions that allow certain individuals to apply for immigration relief independently, without relying on an abusive spouse, parent, or other family member.
Immigrants who are married to or are the child or parent of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident may feel trapped in abusive situations because their immigrant status is tied to their abuser. VAWA provides a self-petition process—a way for people to apply for legal status on their own, without the abuser’s knowledge or consent. The self-petition process is an essential lifeline for survivors, helping them find safety and stability while protecting their privacy. Survivors who qualify may be eligible for lawful permanent residence (a green card) and—ultimately—the opportunity to build a secure future free from abuse. Our compassionate Murfreesboro attorneys can help survivors navigate the VAWA immigration process.
For many immigrants, abusers use their immigrant status as a means of abuse. They may threaten not to sponsor victims, threaten to call ICE on victims, or otherwise manipulate status as a means of exercising control. Of course, this is on top of other types of abuse—physical, emotional, mental, and even sexual. The combination can be overwhelming. At Youngblood & Associates, our qualified immigration attorneys can help victims in Murfreesboro navigate the VAWA self-petition process.
Kara Youngblood and her team approach every case with empathy and understanding. It can be challenging for survivors to discuss their personal experiences—especially stories of victimization. Our attorneys and staff take the time to build personal relationships, learn about unique circumstances, and listen to victims’ stories. By doing so, we can advocate for your rights effectively and ensure you follow the best process to get a visa or green card. While the VAWA self-petition may be the best approach for many victims, there may be other avenues available for survivors—understanding all of your options is an essential way to take ownership and control over your life.
If you or someone you know is an immigrant survivor of domestic violence or abuse in the Murfreesboro area, you do not have to face this journey alone. Youngblood & Associates is here to provide the compassionate, knowledgeable legal support you need.
Reaching out for help can be the most daunting part of the quest for freedom. However, it is a step you need to take for a safer, brighter future. Contact us to schedule a consultation to learn more about immigration and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in Murfreesboro.