VAWA Lawyer Union County — Immigration Relief for Abused Spouses
If you are an abused spouse in Union County, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides a path to a green card without your abuser’s knowledge. A VAWA lawyer Union County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can guide you through the self-petition process. We handle sensitive cases with care, helping you secure immigration relief and safety. Call (888) 437-7747 for a confidential consultation.
Understanding VAWA Self-Petition Protections
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law that allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to file an immigration petition on their own behalf. This is known as a VAWA self-petition. It is a critical form of immigration relief for those trapped in abusive relationships where their status is used as a tool of control.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | USCIS Legislation
Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, founded the firm in 1997. With a background that includes former prosecutor experience, he leads the firm’s immigration practice, including complex VAWA cases for Union County residents.
Official Immigration Resources
For authoritative information, refer to the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy manual on VAWA and the regulations governing the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), which oversees immigration courts.
- USCIS Policy Manual (official federal guidance)
- Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) (official .gov court website)
handling a VAWA Case in Union County
Union County residents filing a VAWA self-petition will have their application processed by the USCIS Vermont Service Center, which handles all VAWA petitions nationally. However, if you are in removal proceedings, your case would be heard at the Newark Immigration Court. New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive limits local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, which can affect certain aspects of an immigration case. An experienced VAWA self-petition lawyer Union County understands how to handle these intersecting federal and local policies to build the strongest case for you.
- Consult with a VAWA Attorney: Discuss your situation confidentially to determine if you qualify.
- Gather Evidence: Collect proof of abuse (police reports, medical records, affidavits), proof of the relationship (marriage certificate, shared bills), and proof of good moral character.
- Prepare Forms I-360 & Supporting Documents: Accurately complete the Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant (Form I-360) and assemble a full evidence packet.
- File the Petition with USCIS: Submit the petition to the Vermont Service Center. The process is confidential, and USCIS will not contact the abuser.
- Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs): If USCIS needs more information, provide a thorough and timely response.
- Apply for Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Upon approval, you can apply for a green card from within the U.S. or through a U.S. consulate abroad.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the significant fear and uncertainty that comes with seeking immigration relief after abuse. Our approach is careful, confidential, and focused on securing your safety and legal status. We have a documented record of handling sensitive family-based immigration matters.
Our Approach to Immigration Law
We provide full representation for immigrants in Union County. For an abused spouse immigration relief lawyer Union County residents can trust, our team handles the sensitive details of VAWA petitions, from gathering psychological evaluations to preparing detailed personal declarations. We aim to secure a favorable outcome so you can build a stable, independent life.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Union County Immigration Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Union County. We are located at 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, Route 1, and I-78.
VAWA lawyer near Elizabeth, Union Township, and Plainfield. We also serve Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield.
Available 24/7 by phone: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 200-8300
Meetings are by appointment only.
VAWA Immigration Lawyer Union County FAQ
Can I file a VAWA petition if I am divorced?
Yes. You can file a VAWA self-petition if you were abused by your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse and you file within two years of the divorce. The abuse must have occurred during the marriage.
Does my abuser find out I filed a VAWA petition?
No. The VAWA process is confidential by law. USCIS is prohibited from contacting your abuser. All correspondence is sent directly to you or your attorney.
What evidence do I need for a VAWA case?
It depends on your situation. You generally need proof of the abuser’s status, proof of the relationship (marriage certificate), evidence of abuse (police reports, medical records, photos, affidavits), and evidence of your good moral character. An attorney can help you identify and organize the necessary evidence.
Can a VAWA lawyer Union County help if I have a deportation order?
Yes. If you are in removal proceedings, filing a VAWA petition can be a basis to ask the immigration judge to terminate or continue your case. It is a strong form of relief that an experienced lawyer can present to the court.
How long does a VAWA petition take?
Processing times vary. Currently, USCIS takes approximately 24-36 months to adjudicate a VAWA self-petition (Form I-360). After approval, the subsequent green card application adds additional processing time.
Related Services: If you need other legal assistance in Union County, our firm also provides criminal defense and family law representation. For more immigration information, visit our New Jersey immigration hub or read about similar cases in Somerset County and Bergen County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. The information on this page is for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice for your specific case. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your VAWA self-petition.