Things to Know About U-Visas in Mesa

The U-visa, or U nonimmigrant status, is for victims of certain crimes who help police or government officials investigate and prosecute those crimes. The paperwork and requirements can be complicated, so the experienced lawyers at Solano Immigration Law Firm are ready to explain the things to know about U-visas in Mesa.

Contact an experienced U visa attorney for a free consultation.

The History of U-Visas

Congress created the U nonimmigrant visa in October 2000 with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act, which includes the Battered Immigrant Women’s Protection Act.

U-visas give unique nonimmigrant status to people who are victims of certain crimes. These include:

• Kidnapping
• Sexual assault
• Domestic violence
• Human trafficking
• Hostage situations
• And many types of violent behavior

One of the most crucial things to know about U-visas in Mesa is whether a person will qualify for this nonimmigrant status. The experienced and compassionate team of attorneys at Solano Immigration Law Firm will help victims understand the qualifications and help you complete the paperwork to apply for this special consideration.

Who Will Qualify for a U-Visa in Mesa?

The most important thing to know about U-visas in Mesa is that victims of violent crimes may be given special protection and special nonimmigrant status if they cooperate with law enforcement.

Nonimmigrant status requires that a victim speak up about crimes in the US. The victim of violent crimes must provide relevant and timely information to police or government officials like ICE. The goal of U visa status is to provide relief for victims of these violent crimes while arresting and prosecuting the criminals.

What if the Victim is a Child?

Unfortunately, many human trafficking crimes, domestic violence, and sexual assaults happen to children. Youngsters are physically small, easy to manipulate, and will struggle to communicate their experiences. This is especially true of children who do not speak English or do not speak it well.

If the victim of a violent crime is age 16 or less, they may have a parent, guardian, relative, or other “next friend” with them when they speak to law enforcement. A next friend is not appointed by the court. They can be a neighbor, social friend, or other person who will help explain questions and answers and provide moral support for the child.

This is also true of people living with disabilities who apply for a U-visa. They may have assistance when communicating with police, detectives, or government officials. This is among the most important things to know about U-visas in Mesa.

U-visa applicants are often, but not always, women and children. Adult males who help law enforcement can also qualify for U visas.

Contact Us to Discover the Most Important Things to Know About U-Visas in Mesa

The experienced immigration lawyers at Solano Immigration Law Firm are ready to fight for your rights and help you through the U-visa application process. We are proud to help protect the victims of violent crime while also helping to remove criminals from the streets. Our compassionate, caring attorneys will explain all the things to know about U-visas in Mesa with patience and understanding.

If you are a violent crime victim and need help applying for a U-visa in Mesa, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting you and helping you gain nonimmigrant status.