Things to Know about U Visas in Huntsville

To give a reminder, U visas are important forms of immigration status that offer comprehensive protection to the survivors of violent crime in other countries. They can be challenging to obtain, but they are usually worth the effort.

If you already applied for one of these permits or you plan on submitting your request, there some things to know about U visas in Huntsville that might help your case. Our knowledgeable U visa attorneys could explain everything you need to understand and help you keep your prospects on track.

Why Did Congress Create the U Visa?

The Congress’s intent behind the creation of the U visa was to encourage undocumented people in the United States to report crimes to the police. Historically, undocumented immigrants live in the shadows, and they are fearful of reporting crimes because they are afraid that if they expose themselves to law enforcement agencies, that they are putting themselves at risk of being detained and deported from the U.S. In a nationwide effort to combat crime and offer community assistance to law enforcement, the U visa was proposed and eventually enacted.

It has served as an impactful and powerful decision that has benefited countless immigrants over the years.

Is There a Relationship between U Visas and VAWA?

VAWA, otherwise known as the Violence Against Women act, was introduced and approved by Congress around the same time as the U visa, and each helps different groups of people. This form of immigration protection also encourages people who are victim of crimes in the United States to feel secure, safe, and confident in our law enforcement’s ability to prosecute the crime in question.

Regardless, it is important to remember that U visas are unique and not exactly the same as the VAWA program. A knowledgeable Huntsville attorney could further explain the differences between the two for anyone who needs additional clarification.

How Is an Applicant Required to Assist Law Enforcement?

When it comes to applying for a U visa, actively assisting police offers with investigating the relevant crimes is a crucial part of the process. Therefore, anyone at this stage of their case needs to understand their obligations.

Typically, they must do the bare minimum for a law enforcement agency to sign a U visa certification indicating that they were helpful. Being helpful to the investigation can be as simple as the victim calling 911 and asking for assistance.

Meanwhile, another example of helpfulness is if a third party calls the police to report the crime, the victim should answer any questions that the officers ask and give as much detail as possible. Furthermore, if the suspect is arrested and the officer contacts the victim to help identify the suspect, that would also be incredibly valuable.

Finally, if a suspect is targeted by the prosecutor’s office, the U visa applicant can continue helping by answering all of the prosecutor’s questions and potentially testifying in court.

If a Huntsville U visa applicant needs help with the unique task of assisting law enforcement with an ongoing investigation, they speak with a dedicated lawyer about what they should do.

Reach Out to an Attorney about the Things to Know about U Visas in Huntsville

There are many distinct benefits associated with U visas, such as the potential for reduced criminal activity in the future. Therefore, any survivor or victim of qualifying crime should not underestimate the power of these permits.

There are some unique aspects of U visas in Huntsville, but Solano Law Firm is here to help you understand them. To speak with a team member and get started on this new chapter of your life, get in touch with our office today.