Greater Boston & New England | Immigration law, guided by people who have lived it
Humanitarian Protection

VAWA Self-Petitions

If you are being harmed or controlled by a U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse, parent, or child, you may be able to seek protection and a green card on your own, confidentially, without their knowledge or permission. You are not alone, and you have options.

Silhouettes of two people in a tense private conversation
Confidential support and clear legal options when privacy matters most.

Who this is for

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) may help if:

  • You are or were married to, or are the parent or child of, an abusive U.S. citizen or green card holder.
  • You have experienced physical abuse, emotional abuse, or coercive control.
  • You want to apply for protection and status on your own, without relying on the abuser.
  • You need everything handled with complete confidentiality.

How we help

Our attorney handles VAWA cases with care and discretion:

  • A confidential, judgment-free consultation to understand your situation.
  • Preparing your VAWA self-petition and the supporting evidence.
  • Helping you gather documentation in a way that is safe for you.
  • Guiding you toward a green card and independence.

What to expect

What working together looks like:

  1. A private consultation, on your terms, at a time and channel that is safe for you.
  2. We explain your options clearly and let you decide the pace.
  3. We prepare your self-petition and evidence carefully and respectfully.
  4. We stay with you through the process toward lawful status.

Am I eligible? (coming soon)

We are building a quick, private tool to help you gauge whether you may be eligible, right here on this page. It is not ready yet. In the meantime, the surest way to find out is a confidential consultation, where we look at your specific situation and tell you honestly where you stand.

Free 15-min consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my spouse or family member find out?

VAWA is designed to be confidential. The law includes strong protections so that a self-petition is not disclosed to the abuser. We will discuss how to keep your case and your communications with us safe.

Do I have to be a woman to use VAWA?

No. Despite its name, VAWA protection is available to eligible men, women, and children.

I do not have police reports or many documents. Can I still qualify?

Possibly. VAWA cases can be supported by many kinds of evidence. In your consultation we will talk through what you have and what may help.

You deserve safety and a path forward

Reach out for a confidential consultation. There is no pressure, only options.

Free 15-min consultation