The Leading U Visa Lawyers in Atlanta
Compassionate Lawyers Dedicated to Assisting Victims of Qualifying Crimes
Atlanta’s Top U Visa Attorneys
Welcome to Quijano Law, Atlanta’s premier immigration law firm focused on U visa cases. Our compassionate and dedicated team of U visa lawyers understands the immense challenges you face as a victim of a qualifying crime, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
With our extensive experience and personalized approach, we'll provide the legal guidance and representation you need to successfully navigate the U visa application process, ensuring you have the best possible chance to secure your immigration status in the United States. Let Quijano Law be your trusted partner in overcoming the obstacles and achieving your immigration goals. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you take the first step towards a brighter future.
Comprehensive Guidance for the U Visa Process in Atlanta
At Quijano Law, our committed immigration lawyers focus on U visa applications, providing personalized legal assistance to victims of qualifying crimes in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Our team will guide you through the complex process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
U Visa Eligibility Criteria and Qualifying Crimes
Our Atlanta-based U visa lawyers will help you determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for a U visa, which include being a victim of a qualifying crime, suffering substantial mental or physical abuse, and assisting law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. Some examples of qualifying crimes are abduction, domestic violence, forced labor, kidnapping, and human trafficking.
Overcoming Common Challenges in the U Visa Application Process
Quijano Law's U visa law firm in the Atlanta area will help you address common challenges throughout the application process, such as:
- Some agencies may be hesitant to provide certifications for various reasons, such as lack of familiarity with the U visa process or internal policies. Quijano Law advocates for clients by communicating directly with the certifying agency, clarifying the legal framework of U visas, and presenting documentation that demonstrates the client’s cooperation in the investigation or prosecution.
- The lengthy process of acquiring a visa can be stressful. That’s why our U visa law firm keeps clients informed and ensures that all required documents are filed properly and on time. Once the U visa is approved, the government generally grants deferred action, and work authorization can be granted, offering much-needed stability for our clients.
- Applicants with prior deportations, unlawful presence, or criminal records may face additional hurdles, so Quijano Law assists in resolving these issues through waivers.
- Applicants with prior deportations, unlawful presence, or criminal records may face additional hurdles, so Quijano Law assists in resolving these issues through waivers.
Other challenges that can inhibit the U visa process include the following:
- Proving substantial mental or physical abuse
- Overcoming inadmissibility grounds
- Limited availability of U visas
Ultimately, our office understands the sensitive nature of U visa cases and utilizes a trauma-informed approach to provide compassionate and supportive legal representation.
How Our U Visa Attorneys Address Application Challenges
Our Atlanta U visa law firm offers experienced solutions to overcome challenges in the application process, including by:
- Securing certification from a qualifying agency
- Demonstrating substantial mental or physical abuse
- Addressing inadmissibility issues
- Streamlining the application process
- Seeking professional assistance
Our Atlanta U Visa Law Firm Answers Your FAQs
Am I eligible for a U visa if I was a victim of a crime years ago?
Yes, the timing of the crime does not disqualify someone from eligibility. However, it is important to have reported the crime to law enforcement in a timely manner. If there was a delay in reporting, it is still possible to apply, but the reasons for the delay must be explained with strong supporting evidence.
Our U visa attorneys assist clients in addressing such delays and meeting all other requirements, including demonstrating cooperation with law enforcement.
Do I need to press charges against the perpetrator to qualify?
Pressing charges is not a requirement. The most critical factor is the victim’s cooperation with law enforcement. This cooperation can take many forms, such as providing testimony, making statements, identifying suspects, or assisting in other aspects of the investigation or prosecution. Quijano Law helps clients document and demonstrate this cooperation effectively.
What types of crimes qualify for a U visa?
The U visa applies to a broad range of crimes, including but not limited to:
- Domestic violence (physical, emotional, and psychological abuse)
- Sexual assault (rape, sexual abuse, and other forms of sexual violence)
- Human trafficking (forced labor, sex trafficking, and related exploitation)
- Felonious assault (e.g., aggravated assault or assault with a deadly weapon)
- Stalking, torture, witness tampering, and many other serious offenses
This is not an exhaustive list, and other crimes may qualify. If you need assistance determining whether your case qualifies under the predetermined regulations, know that our U visa lawyers in Atlanta can help you.
Can I include my family members in my U visa application?
Certain family members may qualify as derivative beneficiaries. This can include spouses, children, and, in specific cases, parents or unmarried siblings under 21. To qualify as a derivative beneficiary, family members must meet certain requirements, including age limits and relationship to the principal applicant. Our office can help clients determine which family members are eligible.
How long does it take to process a U visa application?
Due to the annual cap of 10,000 U visas and backlogs at USCIS, processing times can range between three to five years or more. While waiting, applicants may be eligible for deferred action, which protects them from deportation, and work authorization to support themselves and their families during the process.
What does the process for getting a U visa generally look like?
Our Atlanta U visa lawyers have outlined the obtainment process from start to finish, with key steps including the following:
- The process begins with assessing whether the individual was a victim of a qualifying crime and meets the U visa eligibility criteria.
- Form I-918B, signed by a law enforcement agency, is required to confirm the applicant’s cooperation. This step can be challenging, but Quijano Law assists clients in navigating this process and helps secure the necessary certification.
- Applicants must submit Form I-918 along with thorough supporting documentation, such as police reports, medical records, and affidavits. When working with us, know that our U visa attorneys ensure all evidence is persuasive and comprehensive.
- Once the application is submitted, USCIS reviews it. When approved, if the annual cap is reached, applicants are placed on a waiting list but can still qualify for deferred action and work authorization during this period. Quijano Law monitors cases closely and ensures timely responses to any requests from USCIS.
- After holding U visa status for three years, applicants may become eligible for lawful permanent residency. In such a case, we’ll guide clients through this final step, ensuring compliance with all requirements.
Our Georgia-based U visa lawyers understand that navigating this process can be complex and requires careful attention to detail. Quijano Law can help you with each step, ensuring your application is complete and compelling.
What are the most important eligibility criteria to be aware of before starting a U visa case?
- The individual must have been a victim of a crime listed under U visa regulations.
- The crime must have caused significant harm, such as physical injuries, emotional trauma, or psychological damage. Our team can help clients document the impact of the crime.
- The applicant must demonstrate helpfulness in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
- While applicants must be admissible to the U.S., the U visa offers broad waiver options for many inadmissibility issues. For example, waivers are available for unlawful presence, certain criminal convictions, and prior immigration violations. Quijano Law works to address challenges like admissibility concerns to strengthen clients’ cases.
Does the Quijano Law team approach U visa cases differently than other firms?
Quijano Law takes a client-centered approach by:
- Providing comprehensive preparation to ensure applications are complete and persuasive
- Collaborating with law enforcement to streamline the certification process
- Offering compassionate support throughout the process, recognizing the emotional challenges clients may face
What separates Quijano Law from other firms someone might be considering for U visa assistance?
Our U visa law firm is distinguished in Georgia and beyond because of our:
- The team has significant experience handling U visa cases and related matters. We have helped countless clients obtain U visas and achieve their immigration goals.
- Our firm’s strategies are customized to fit each client’s unique circumstances and the needs of their case.
- Quijano Law ensures clear communication, timely responses, and strong advocacy to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients.
Additionally, Quijano Law offers personalized attention and strategic guidance, ensuring clients feel supported and informed throughout the U visa process. The firm’s dedication to each client’s success is reflected in our team’s thorough preparation, compassionate advocacy, and consistent communication. We have a proven track record of helping clients obtain U visas, reunite with their families, secure work authorization, and build a new life in the United States.
Contact Our Atlanta U Visa Lawyers to Schedule a Consultation
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a qualifying crime and require assistance in applying for a U visa, contact Quijano Law, Atlanta's leading immigration law firm focusing on U visa cases. Our dedicated team will guide you through the process, providing personalized legal support to secure your immigration status.
