U Visa Attorney

Tagline: Compassionate U Visa Attorney Guidance for Survivors Seeking Safety and Justice in Immigration

U Visa Lawyer: Your Guide to Safety and Legal Status

U Visas were created to help people who have suffered serious physical or emotional harm due to crime. They are for those willing to help law enforcement investigate or prosecute crimes. For many, this visa can mean safety, legal status, and a real chance to rebuild their lives.

The U Visa program gives a voice to those who might otherwise remain silent out of fear of deportation. If you’ve experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, or other serious crimes, this visa can offer protection and stability. It also allows you to play a part in seeking justice within your community.

Our immigration lawyers at the Law Offices of Vanessa Ortega Bartsch are here to guide you through every step. We’ll listen to your story, protect your rights, and ensure your support throughout the process.

Eligibility Requirements for U Visas

Qualifying for a U Visa involves specific criteria laid out under US immigration law, specifically under Section 101(a)(15)(U) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), as amended by the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 (VTVPA).

The key eligibility requirements for a U Visa under US immigration law include:

Qualifying Criminal Activity

The applicant should have been affected by a qualifying crime listed in INA § 101(a)(15)(U)(iii). Some examples of qualifying crimes include:

  • Domestic violence

  • Sexual assault

  • Human trafficking

  • felonious assault

  • Murder

  • Manslaughter

Substantial Physical or Mental Abuse

The applicant should have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the qualifying criminal activity.

The Crime Occurred in the US or Violated US Law

The criminal activity should have occurred in the United States or its territories or violated US laws, as specified in INA § 101(a)(15)(U)(i)(IV).

Admissibility to the US.

The applicant should be admissible to the United States or obtain a waiver for any grounds of inadmissibility under INA § 212(d)(14) and 8 C.F.R. § 214.14(c)(2)(iv).

Law Enforcement Certification 

A critical step is securing law enforcement certification on Form I-918 Supplement B, affirming your helpfulness with the criminal investigation or prosecution. Law enforcement agencies have discretion in providing this certification, which is why legal guidance is essential.

The U Visa Application Process

To avoid the complexities of the U visa application, we designed a special approach. Our structured approach is designed to give you confidence and clarity.

  1. Initial Assessment: We begin with a confidential consultation, listening to your story and evaluating your eligibility for the U Visa. We help you gather essential documents, address potential barriers, and craft a strategy for your best interests.

  1. Securing Law Enforcement Certification: Obtaining Form I-918 Supplement B is often challenging. Our team handles communication with police, prosecutors, or other qualifying agencies, advocating for your certification with persistence and professionalism.

  1. Preparing the Application Package: We organize all required forms, supporting evidence, and your personal statement into a compelling package. Items typically include:

    • Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status

    • Form I-918 Supplement B (Law Enforcement Certification)

    • Form I-765 (Work Authorization, if desired)

    • Medical records, court documents, and other supporting materials

  2. Addressing Inadmissibility: If you have prior immigration violations or criminal history, we prepare Form I-192 to address those grounds, emphasizing humanitarian factors and your cooperation with authorities.

  3. Submitting Your Application: Once your package is prepared and thoroughly reviewed, we file it with USCIS and keep you updated on your case’s progress.

  4. Ongoing Support: The U Visa backlog can mean a substantial waiting period. During this period, we check your status, answer your questions, and promptly respond to any additional requests from USCIS.

  5. Conditional Approval and Work Authorization: Many applicants are placed on a waiting list and become eligible for work authorization while waiting for final U Visa approval.

  6. Final Approval and Next Steps: Once approved, you and certain family members will receive U nonimmigrant status for four years. This typically comes with the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after three years.

Benefits of Hiring a U Visa Attorney

Here’s why you should consider hiring a U Visa Attorney from the Law Offices of Vanessa Ortega Bartsch:

  • Builds a strong, compelling case: Your lawyer’s job is to handle the paperwork, deadlines, and agency communications. They gather the proper evidence, prepare complete applications, and present your story in a way that increases your chances of approval.

  • Anticipates and solves problems: With experience in U Visa cases, our lawyers can spot issues early and address them in time. For instance, they can address past immigration concerns or apply for waivers and resolve them quickly.

  • Supports you and your family: They guide eligible family members through their applications so you can move toward safety and stability together.

  • Gives you peace of mind: They keep you informed, protect your rights, and stand by you until your case is resolved.

Choosing the Right U Visa Attorney

Choosing the right attorney is a strategic decision you will need to make on your path to safety and stability. 

At the Law Offices of Vanessa Ortega Bartsch, we believe effective U Visa representation requires a blend of compassionate listening, diligent advocacy, and deep knowledge of humanitarian immigration law. Here are some key factors to consider as you evaluate your options:

  • Experience with U Visa Cases: Select an attorney with a proven record assisting survivors of violence and those who face unique hurdles due to their status or personal history.

  • Clear, Compassionate Communication: Your attorney should understand complex legal concepts, keep you updated on your case status, and be approachable about your concerns.

  • Sensitivity and Cultural Understanding: Find a legal team that creates an environment where you can share your story safely, with respect for your background, language, and experiences. Our bilingual services ensure language is never a barrier.

  • Familiarity with Local Law Enforcement: Working with attorneys who know Westminster agencies and have relationships within the California legal community can make obtaining law enforcement certification more efficient and effective.

  • Transparent, Honest Guidance: Beware of grand promises or guarantees. The right attorney will be candid about timelines, possible challenges, and next steps.

By seeking experienced, compassionate legal support, you place your future in the hands of advocates committed to justice and dignity. These are the qualities that form the foundation of the Law Offices of Vanessa Ortega Bartsch.

Connect with Compassionate Advocacy

You deserve to live a life devoid of fear here in the US. Our lawyers are willing to stand beside you every step of the way. We take time to understand your story, explore every legal option, and guide you through the process with care and dedication.

We know how deeply trauma, uncertainty, and waiting can affect you and your family. That’s why we offer hands-on support. Our attorneys help you gather documents, work with agencies, and address any challenges that may arise. We can also assist eligible family members so you can keep your loved ones safe together. Our services are available in English and Spanish, ensuring you feel understood and supported.

No matter where you are in your journey, our goal is to help you find protection, stability, and hope. With compassion and determination, we fight for your dignity and your future. If you’re ready to take the next step toward safety and legal status, contact us for a consultation. 

We’re here to walk that path with you.