Humanitarian Relief

If you're fleeing harm, or have survived abuse or violence, there may be a path to protection.

U.S. immigration law offers protections for people who have been victims of serious crimes, domestic abuse, human trafficking, or who face harm in their home country. These protections exist because Congress recognized that survivors deserve safety — and that coming forward takes courage.

If you've experienced any of these situations, you may qualify for immigration relief, regardless of how you entered the country.

Types of Humanitarian Relief

Affirmative Asylum

If you fear harm in your home country based on your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, you may be able to apply for asylum with USCIS. Unlike defensive asylum (which is filed in immigration court), affirmative asylum is for people who are not currently in removal proceedings. If granted, asylum leads to a green card and a path to citizenship.

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)

Despite its name, VAWA protects people of all genders. It allows survivors of abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child to apply for immigration relief on their own — without the abuser's knowledge or involvement.

U Visa

The U visa is for victims of qualifying crimes — such as domestic violence, sexual assault, kidnapping, or other serious offenses — who have suffered harm and are willing to assist law enforcement.

T Visa

The T visa protects survivors of human trafficking. If you were brought to the U.S. through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or sexual exploitation, you may be eligible for protection.

What I'll Need to Understand

These cases are deeply personal, and I approach them with care. During a consultation, I'll ask about:

  • What happened to you
  • Your relationship to the person who harmed you
  • Whether law enforcement has been involved

Everything you share with me is confidential. My goal is to understand whether one of these protections applies to you — and to explain your options clearly.

What Working Together Looks Like

  • We start with a conversation — I'll listen to what you've been through and learn about your situation.
  • I assess your options — I'll help you understand which form of relief may apply and what the process looks like.
  • We prepare your case carefully — I'll help you gather evidence, write your declaration, and put together a strong application.
  • I guide you through the process — Whether it's filing with USCIS or navigating a certification request, I'll be with you every step of the way.

Is This You?

You might qualify for humanitarian relief if:

  • You were abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child
  • You were the victim of a serious crime in the U.S.
  • You were trafficked into the country or forced into labor or sexual exploitation
  • You've been afraid to come forward because of your immigration status

Take the Next Step

You've already been through so much. Taking this step can feel overwhelming — but you don't have to do it alone. I'll help you understand your options and walk with you through the process.

Schedule a Consultation