VAWA Self-Petition Lawyer in Las Vegas

Last updated: July 2026. Your inquiry is confidential.

Husna Alikhan, Esq., LL.M has practiced immigration law for more than two decades and has been an AILA member since 2004. Alikhan Law Office helps survivors of abuse seek lawful status safely and privately, with compassion and discretion. We represent clients in all 50 states, with consultations available by Zoom or in person.

What VAWA Does

The Violence Against Women Act lets an abused spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident apply for lawful status on their own, without the abuser's knowledge, consent, or involvement. Despite its name, VAWA protects people of any gender. It exists so that no one is trapped in an abusive relationship because their immigration status is in someone else's hands.

Who Can Self-Petition

You may qualify if you are, or were, the abused spouse of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; the abused child of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; or the abused parent of a U.S. citizen. Abuse includes physical violence as well as emotional, psychological, and financial cruelty. For spouses, the marriage must have been entered in good faith. We review your circumstances carefully and confidentially to determine whether you qualify.

Important: If your VAWA self-petition is based on marriage, do not remarry while it is pending. Remarrying before a decision has been reached can cause your petition to be denied. Wait until your case has been approved before you remarry.

How the Process Works

We prepare and file Form I-360, the self-petition, along with evidence of your relationship, the abuse, and your good faith. If it is approved, you may then apply for a green card, either from inside the United States or through consular processing. Throughout, we handle the case so you can focus on your safety and your family.

Your Privacy and Safety

Federal law protects the confidentiality of VAWA cases. USCIS does not notify the abuser, and information about your petition is protected. If you are in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Talk to an Attorney First

For the best outcome, have an attorney prepare and file your case from the start. Schedule a confidential Zoom or in-person consultation on our online calendar, call (702) 374-6619, or email info@alikhanlaw.com.

Talk to Us Confidentially

Speak with attorney Husna Alikhan by Zoom or in person.

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VAWA Self-Petition

Frequently Asked Questions

No. VAWA is a self-petition. You file on your own, and the abuser is not notified. Federal confidentiality protections keep your case private.

Yes. Although it is called the Violence Against Women Act, VAWA protects people of any gender who have been abused by a qualifying U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative.

Abuse is not limited to physical violence. Emotional, psychological, and financial cruelty, threats, isolation, and controlling behavior can all qualify. We help you document what you have experienced.

If your self-petition is based on marriage, no. Remarrying before your VAWA petition is approved can cause it to be denied. Wait until a decision has been reached and your case is approved before you remarry.

Possibly. A self-petition may still be available for a period of time after a divorce, the abuser's death, or a loss of status, depending on the circumstances. It is worth asking an attorney promptly, since timing matters.

Yes. Your children may often be included as derivatives on your self-petition, so the whole family can move toward safety and status together.

Yes. Federal law bars USCIS from sharing information about your case with the abuser, and we handle everything with discretion. Your safety and privacy come first.