U-Visas California Immigration
Welcome to Cabrera & Hart Law, your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of the U-Visa immigration process. Our firm specializes in supporting victims of crime seeking legal status in the United States through U-Visas.
Your Ally in Justice: The Power of Having a Lawyer by Your Side
What is a U-Visa? A U-Visa is a non-immigrant visa set forth by the United States immigration law. It is specifically designed for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. The U-Visa provides eligible victims with legal status in the United States, allowing them to live and work in the country for up to four years, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency after three years.
Leading our U-Visa services is Kristen Hart, an award-winning lawyer based in Southern California. Recognized for her expertise and commitment, Kristen has a proven track record of guiding clients through the intricate U-Visa application process, advocating for their rights every step of the way. Understanding the U-Visa process can be daunting and challenging. However, with the right legal guidance, it becomes more manageable and less stressful. That’s where we come in. At Cabrera & Hart Law, we strive to provide clear, comprehensive, and compassionate legal aid to our clients.
Whether you’re just starting to consider a U-Visa or have already begun the process, we’re here to help. Let Cabrera & Hart Law be your guide on your journey towards obtaining a U-Visa.
At Cabrera & Hart Law, we understand that each immigration case is unique and personal. That’s why we approach each case with a deep sense of commitment and dedication, offering personalized solutions tailored to your specific needs. Here’s why you should choose us:
I’m here to help you succeed
You're only 3 steps away from starting your journey to U.S. Citizenship
At Cabrera & Hart Law, we follow a structured and strategic process to ensure every client receives the best possible legal service. Our approach is designed to provide clarity, efficiency, and effective results. Here’s an overview of our process:
Step 1 Schedule Consultation
Call us to schedule your attorney consultation, via video call or phone.
Step 2 Case Review
Attorney will analyze your case and create an individualized case plan that best meets your needs
Step 3 Strategy Development
Based on the case evaluation, we formulate a tailored legal strategy that aligns with your specific circumstances and immigration goals.
Step 4 Collection of Evidence
Once eligibility is confirmed, we'll begin collecting the necessary evidence. This includes police reports, court documents, medical records, and testimony from witnesses or experts that support your claim of being a victim of a qualifying crime and having suffered substantial harm.
Step 5 Certification of Helpfulness
A crucial part of the U-Visa application is obtaining a certification of helpfulness (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a qualifying law enforcement agency. We'll guide you through this process, ensuring the certification accurately represents your cooperation.
Step 6 Application Preparation
After gathering all necessary documentation, we'll prepare your application (Form I-918). This will include drafting a personal statement detailing your experience as a crime victim and your cooperation with law enforcement.
Step 7 Submission and Wait Time
Once your application is complete, we'll submit it to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The wait time for U-Visa processing can vary, often taking several months to a few years due to the annual cap on U-Visas.
Step 8 Follow-up and Adjustment of Status
If your U-Visa is approved, you'll have legal status in the U.S. for four years, after which you may apply for a green card if you meet certain requirements. We'll continue to provide guidance and support throughout this process.
Remember, every case is unique, and the process may vary based on individual circumstances. Rest assured, with Cabrera & Hart Law and Kristen Hart’s award-winning expertise on your side, you’ll have dedicated advocates guiding you every step of the way.
The U nonimmigrant status, commonly known as the U-Visa, was established by the United States Congress in October 2000 through the Battered Immigrant Women’s Protection Act. The U-Visa serves as a lifeline for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity.
The U-Visa provides eligible victims with nonimmigrant status, allowing them to temporarily live and work in the United States. Furthermore, it offers a pathway to permanent residency, making it a crucial tool for many seeking safety and stability.
To qualify for a U-Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:
1. They must have been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity.
2. They must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime.
3. They can provide helpful information concerning the crime to law enforcement or prosecutors.
4. The crime occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws.
The U-Visa application process is complex and requires detailed documentation, including a certification from a law enforcement agency (Form I-918, Supplement B) and proof of the applicant’s helpfulness in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
At Cabrera & Hart Law, we understand the intricacies of the U-Visa process and are committed to guiding you through each step, ensuring your application accurately reflects your situation and maximizes your chances of success. We believe everyone deserves a chance at a safe and secure future, and we’re here to help make that a reality.
Remember, when facing immigration challenges, the attorney you choose can make all the difference. With Cabrera & Hart, APC, you’re not just getting a lawyer; you’re gaining a dedicated partner in your legal battle.
Award-Winning Service
Personalized Approach
Dedicated Attorneys
Representation in Court
Strong Client Relationships
Comprehensive Expertise:
Proven Results
Accessibility and Convenience
Paperwork and Documentation
Post-Decision Support
A U-Visa is a nonimmigrant visa granted to victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity.
To be eligible for a U-Visa, you must have been a victim of a qualifying crime, suffered substantial physical or mental harm as a result, be helpful to law enforcement or prosecutors in the investigation or prosecution of the crime, and the crime must have occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws.
Yes, certain qualifying family members may also be eligible for a derivative U-Visa based on your approved U-Visa. This includes unmarried children under 21, spouses, parents (if the principal U-Visa holder is under 21), and unmarried siblings under 18 (if the principal U-Visa holder is under 21).
As a U-Visa holder, you have the right to legally live and work in the United States for four years. After three years of continuous presence in the U.S., you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
The processing time for a U-Visa application can vary greatly due to factors such as the annual cap on U-Visas and the specifics of your case. It can take several months to a few years.
While we cannot guarantee a specific outcome, we can assure you that we will use our extensive knowledge and experience to fight aggressively for your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible result in your case.
We believe in maintaining open and transparent communication with our clients. We’ll provide regular updates on the progress of your case, any new developments, and what they mean for you.
If you receive an unfavorable decision, we are prepared to appeal and continue fighting for your rights. Our firm is committed to standing by our clients every step of the way.
You can schedule an initial consultation by calling our office or Schedule Online Now
. The initial consultation is an opportunity for us to understand your situation and discuss potential legal strategies.
Please note: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Each case is unique, and the law is subject to change. If you need advice on your specific situation, please contact Cabrera & Hart Law directly.
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