Chicago VAWA Lawyers

No one should have to stay silent about abuse because they fear losing their immigration status. Yet for many, that fear is all too real. When the person hurting you is also the person your legal standing depends on, speaking up or getting out can feel impossible. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was created precisely for situations like this.

VAWA protects survivors of all genders. It allows qualifying abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to file for immigration relief privately and without any involvement from the abuser. Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC has stood alongside individuals and families navigating some of the most personal and high-stakes immigration situations over the last 50 years, including cases where safety, confidentiality, and trust matter above all else. Our team listens carefully, explains every step simply, and works to build the strongest case possible for you while respecting your dignity throughout the process.

Who We Serve

We assist survivors and their families at every stage of the VAWA process, including those who:

• Are married to an abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and want to pursue immigration relief independently, without relying on that spouse.
• Fear that a partner is using their immigration status as a tool of control, and need to understand whether a better path forward exists.
• Are the child of an abusive U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent and want to explore whether VAWA protection may apply.
• Are the parent of an abusive U.S. citizen adult child and are looking for a lawful way to remain in the country safely.
• Have experienced emotional, psychological, or financial abuse and are unsure whether their situation qualifies.
• Need help understanding what kinds of evidence can support a case when the abuse happened behind closed doors.
• Are wondering whether they are still eligible to file after the relationship has ended or the abuser has died.

Our goal is to make the VAWA process simple and straightforward, helping you find the relief you are searching for.

Understanding the Violence Against Women Act

A VAWA self-petition allows eligible survivors of abuse to apply for immigration relief directly through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, independent of the abuser and without alerting them in any way. The following is a general overview of how these cases work; every situation is different, and we tailor our approach accordingly.

Eligibility at a Glance

VAWA self-petitions are generally open to three groups with a qualifying connection to an abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident:

• Abused spouses, and in some circumstances their children.
• Abused children of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent.
• Abused parents of a U.S. citizen adult child.

Importantly, “abuse” under VAWA extends well beyond physical harm. Extreme cruelty and emotional, psychological, and financial abuse may also form a qualifying claim.

Filing Your Self-Petition

A successful VAWA self-petition generally requires demonstrating:

• A qualifying family relationship to an abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
• That battery or extreme cruelty occurred within that relationship.
• Shared residence with the abuser at some point.
• Good moral character on the part of the petitioner.

Building Your Evidence

Gathering proof of what happened privately is often the most challenging part of a VAWA case. Relevant documentation may include personal declarations, medical or police records, photographs, protective orders, and statements from those who observed or had knowledge of the abuse. We work alongside you to identify what is available and present it in the most effective way possible.

What Sets Our Firm Apart in VAWA Cases?

• Exclusive Focus on Immigration Law: Every attorney at our firm practices only immigration law.
• Five Decades of Experience: Since 1974, we have handled matters where the personal stakes are as high as the legal ones.
• A Private, Trauma-Aware Process: We approach every VAWA case with discretion, care, clear communication, and a deep respect for what our clients have endured.
• Thorough Evidence Preparation: We understand how to document difficult circumstances effectively, even when the evidence is limited or emotionally difficult to gather.
• A Reputation Built on Trust: Those who have worked with us consistently describe an experience grounded in professionalism and genuine care.

You Do Not Have to Face This Alone

Taking the first step is often the hardest decision. If you are considering whether VAWA may apply to your situation, reach out to our team at KB&A for a confidential conversation. We are here to listen without judgment and to help you understand what options may be available, because your safety matters, and so does your future.

FAQs About Immigration Through the Violence Against Women Act