Did you suffer physical or mental abuse due to being the victim of a crime? Have you agreed to assist law enforcement in the investigation of that crime? Depending on the crime you were a victim of, you may very well be eligible for a “U Visa.” With that, you may be able to live and work in the United States for years. Here at the Rijal Law Firm, we stand with victims. Over the years, we have been able to help many to navigate the U Visa Bona Fide Determination process. Below are some of the questions that we have been asked. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Can My Family Members Qualify?
Possibly. Depending on their relationship with the petitioner (their relationship with you), particular family members may be eligible to apply for U Visa status. You may have to include evidence of your relationship to your family members, they may have to pass a criminal background check, and so forth.
Who Determines the Certification?
First, you contact the police department where the crime occurred. Request an authorized party complete and sign Form I-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification. Many agencies commonly certify U Visa petitions. They include state and local police departments, prosecutors, District Attorneys, federal law environment, and, in rare cases, judges.
Unfortunately, in the wake of recently updated law enforcement guidelines, some agencies may be reluctant to issue a U Visa certification. Worse, some prosecutors and even police officers have tried to use a victim’s need for certification for leverage, trying to coerce them to cooperate beyond what’s necessary for the U Visa.
If you believe there’s even a chance that this happened to you, we encourage you to reach out to us. We have experience in negotiating with law enforcement and, if necessary, coordinating with victims’ advocates as well. We see it as one more way that we can help victims.
What Are Some Ways the Rijal Law Firm Can Help?
Beyond what’s listed above, we can pursue your case with not just experience, but with care and discretion as well. We know how challenging this time can be.
To successfully receive a U Visa, you have to submit a lengthy list of forms and documentation. We have a proven track record of obtaining certifications of assistance to law enforcement as well as successfully preparing the caliber of affidavits that can establish your case and more. We can support you through every step of the process.
How Can I Know What’s the Right Immigration Path for Me?
If you were a victim of a crime, applying for a U Visa very well may be the right course of action. However, that’s just one of the ways that we can help you and yours to be able to come to America. We are more than happy to sit down with you for a free case evaluation to see how we can help. Schedule this through our site or by calling.
