If you're looking for a VAWA visa lawyer in Chicago, IL, you're probably dealing with a painful and complicated situation. At Ibrahim Law Office, we understand how difficult it can be to take the first step, especially after facing abuse from a spouse or family member. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the VAWA visa process with care, respect, discretion, and a strong focus on protecting your rights. You do not have to face this alone. Call Ibrahim Law Office today at (312) 767-8611 or complete our online contact form for a confidential consultation and find out how we can help you build a new beginning. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows an individual to apply for legal status in the U.S. without needing the abusive spouse, parent, or child’s help. The person can "self-petition," meaning they don’t have to rely on the abuser to file a petition for them. This is a huge relief because, often, an abuser controls many aspects of the victim’s life, including their immigration status. The VAWA visa process starts by filing a petition with USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services). If granted, the victim can get a green card and eventually apply for citizenship. Our Chicago Visa Lawyer wants you to know that, despite its name, the VAWA visa is available to all genders. If you’re living in Chicago and considering a VAWA visa, you might be wondering if you qualify. The short answer is: if you've been abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you might be eligible. VAWA protections apply to different groups of people: But there’s more to it than just being a victim of abuse. You must prove the relationship to the abuser. You also need to show evidence of abuse, your good moral character, and that you lived with the abusive relative at some point. Immigration law requires specific documentation and strong personal statements to demonstrate eligibility. If you think you might qualify but aren’t sure, don’t hesitate to call a Chicago VAWA visa lawyer for compassionate support. VAWA cases are not like other immigration cases. They need a careful and compassionate approach. Ibrahim Law Office is here to support you every step of the way, from your very first call to the final decision. Here’s how our VAWA visa lawyer in Chicago, IL, can help: We know that coming forward about abuse takes a lot of courage. That’s why the first step we take is to listen. We offer confidential consultations so you can talk openly about your situation, knowing that everything is kept private. No judgment, no pressure. It’s a safe space where we can go over your options and give you the advice you need. One of the most crucial parts of any VAWA visa case is gathering evidence. This can be a delicate process, especially since many people don’t keep physical evidence of abuse. But don’t worry, we’ve seen it all and know how to work with what’s available. Our VAWA visa lawyer helps gather the right documents that can support a petition. We’ll also guide you through creating a timeline of events that clearly shows the pattern of abuse. This is an important part of the process. The more detailed and organized the evidence, the stronger the case your Chicago VAWA visa lawyer will be able to build. Your affidavit is your chance to tell your story in your own words. It’s an opportunity to explain your experience and show the impact of the abuse on your life. We help you draft a clear, compelling affidavit that outlines your situation. Our VAWA visa lawyer makes sure it accurately reflects everything you've been through while also fitting into the legal framework USCIS is looking for. It can be tough to put everything into words, but we’re here to guide you through it. Once all your paperwork and evidence are ready, it’s time to file the Form I-360 petition. This is the form that officially starts the process of seeking a VAWA visa. The filing itself isn’t overly complicated, but it’s crucial that everything is filled out accurately. Any errors or missing information can delay your case. Our VAWA visa lawyer helps take care of the details, so you don’t have to stress about forms. If your VAWA petition is approved, the next step might be applying for an adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (get your green card). We’re here to walk you through this stage as well. Our Chicago VAWA visa lawyer knows the ins and outs of the process and will make sure everything is handled correctly. Once you’ve filed your VAWA petition, you might be called in for an interview with USCIS. This part can be intimidating, but we’ll be right there with you. Our VAWA visa lawyer preps you for what to expect and represents you during the interview to ensure everything goes smoothly. VAWA cases can be difficult for many reasons. Some of the biggest challenges include: VAWA visa petitions can be tough to prove, especially when the abuse isn't physical or there’s limited documentation. Plus, many people are afraid to come forward, unsure of how much they need to share or how it will affect their immigration case. We understand these fears. That’s why our Chicago VAWA visa lawyer takes the time to build a case that’s honest, detailed, and supported by every available piece of evidence. Our team helps clients tell their stories clearly and safely, focusing on the facts that matter most. We handle the legal side so you can focus on healing and moving forward. Our Chicago VAWA visa lawyer is dedicated to making sure you not only get the legal support you need but also the compassionate, understanding care you deserve. Here's why we’re the right choice for your VAWA visa case: Our team has a proven track record of successfully handling VAWA visa cases. We’ve helped many clients in Chicago navigate the complex immigration system and come out on the other side with legal protection and the chance to start fresh. Our VAWA visa lawyer knows the ins and outs of the process, and we understand what USCIS is looking for. This gives you the best chance of success. Our experience extends beyond just VAWA cases. We focus our practice on immigration law and humanitarian visas, meaning we have a broad understanding of the challenges people face when seeking protection in the U.S. We’ve got the knowledge and experience to help guide you through it. Dealing with abuse is emotionally exhausting, and the last thing you need is a lawyer who treats your case like just another file on their desk. Our VAWA visa attorney is compassionate and understanding. We take the time to listen to your story, offer support, and provide legal advice that respects your needs and emotions. We know that seeking legal protection is a big step, and we’re here to help you with both the legal and emotional aspects of the process. One of the most frustrating parts of any legal process is not knowing what’s going on. With our team, you won’t have to worry about being left in the dark. We prioritize clear, consistent communication throughout your VAWA visa case. You’ll always know where things stand, what’s coming up next, and what we need from you. We’re here to answer your questions and make sure you feel informed and confident in every decision. If you’re wondering how long a VAWA visa case takes, the timeline can vary depending on different factors, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect: Overall, the process can take 1 to 3 years, depending on the specifics of your case. Here are answers to some of the most common questions clients ask our VAWA visa lawyer: No, your abuser will not be notified if you file a VAWA visa petition. The process is designed to protect your privacy and ensure that the abuser can’t interfere with your case. Your safety is the priority, and USCIS takes steps to keep your information confidential. Yes. VAWA protection isn’t limited to women. Men can and do apply for a VAWA visa if they’ve been victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Gender doesn’t play a role in your eligibility. What matters is the abuse you’ve experienced and your relationship to the abuser. The evidence you need will depend on your specific situation, but generally, you'll need to provide: It’s understandable if some of this feels overwhelming. Our VAWA visa lawyer can guide you through the process of gathering and organizing all the evidence you need. Yes, you can still apply if you're divorced or if the abuser has passed away. VAWA allows people who have been abused by their spouse or parent to seek protection even after the relationship has ended. So, if your spouse or parent is deceased, you may still qualify for a VAWA visa as long as you meet the other requirements. Yes, if you have children who were also victims of abuse, you can include them on your VAWA visa petition. If your children are under 21, they may be able to receive their own protection, too. They can also benefit from a green card if your petition is approved. It’s important to provide any necessary documentation, such as birth certificates or proof of their relationship to the abuser. If you’re ready to take the next step and explore your options, we’re here to help. Scheduling a confidential consultation with the Ibrahim Law Office is the first step toward gaining the protection you deserve. During your consultation, we’ll listen to your story, evaluate your case, and discuss the best way forward.What Is a VAWA Self-Petition?
Who Is Eligible for a VAWA Visa in Chicago?
How Our Chicago VAWA Visa Lawyer Helps
#1 Confidential Consultations
#2 Gathering and Preparing Evidence
#3 Drafting Strong Affidavits
#4 Filing Form I-360 VAWA Petition
#5 Assistance With Adjustment of Status Applications
#6 Representing Clients in Immigration Interviews
Challenges in VAWA Cases and How We Overcome Them
Why Choose Our VAWA Visa Lawyer in Chicago, IL?
Proven Track Record
Deep Experience With Immigration and Humanitarian Visas
Compassionate Attorneys
Clear, Consistent Communication
Timeline for a VAWA Case
FAQs About VAWA Visas
Will the Abuser Be Notified if I Apply For VAWA?
Can Men Apply for a VAWA Visa Too?
What Evidence Do I Need for a VAWA Visa Petition?
Can I Still Apply if I'm Divorced or the Abuser Has Passed Away?
Can I Include My Children on My VAWA Petition?
Speak With a Chicago VAWA Visa Lawyer Today
You don’t have to face this process alone–we’ll be by your side every step of the way. Contact our experienced VAWA visa lawyer today at (312) 767-8611 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation and get the help you need.
How Can We Help?
Our Services
More Immigration Blogs
Hear From Our
Clients
"One of the top immigration lawyers in Chicagoland. Michael Ibrahim is attentive, supportive, and knowledgeable. One of his best abilities is his availability. He responds to emails with attention and detail, often on the same day. Don't underestimate that in dealing with any immigration matter. He is personable; he does not simply collect fees and treat you like a client but rather like a friend. Your success is his success, and he understands that. If Michael were a surgeon, accountant, or another lawyer in any other field. I would want him. You cannot replicate him.." -Yousef S.
"My wife and I are very thankful for Micheal Ibrahim. Before we hired him, we approached many immigration lawyers over ten years to duplicate documents that were destroyed in a fire. The results were disappointing. Micheal was able to find the lost documents. My wife got her permanent residency. He was always available for us during a stressful time. We would like to thank Michael for his knowledge, professionalism, and expertise. We would definitely recommend Michael for immigration services." -Farzad D.
"Michael took over my case, which had been in immigration proceedings for many years, and I am so glad that he did. He is very professional, kept my husband, and I informed of every step of the process, and gave us the most honest and beneficial advice! Highly recommended for anyone who is in need of a great immigration attorney! Thank you again, Michael!" -Nida F.
