Domestic Violence Asylum
Asylum law, including domestic violence asylum, can be utilized by individuals who have fled from their country of origin due to past persecution, including being subjected to domestic violence, and who are looking for a safe haven in the United States.
Bueno Law proudly represents clients, including members of the LGBTQ community, in immigration court as well as before the Asylum Office.
Who We Serve
LGBTQ+
Women
Children
People Seeking Asylum
Indigenous Peoples
Hispanic Immigrants
Brazilian Immigrants
Central American Immigrants
However, you may still be eligible to be represented by us if you do not consider yourself a part of these demographics. We encourage you to contact us if you have experienced violence, discrimination, threats, intimidation, or abuse in any form.
Understanding Domestic Violence Asylum
If you are being subjected to acts of domestic violence in your country of origin, you may be eligible, in specific circumstances, to seek asylum in the United States. The term “domestic violence” does not currently have a universally agreed-upon legal definition. Nevertheless, the term is generally understood to include being subjected to threats or the infliction of physical harm by one person on another in a family, intimate relationship, or household. Women who were unable to leave abusive relationships, who were treated as property, who suffered any physical or sexual abuse usually can apply for asylum in the United States.
In order to file for asylum, you would have to show (1) past persecution [severe past harm]; (2) a well-founded fear of future persecution [be afraid of going back]; (3) that you filed for asylum within the first year of arrival [or have an exception]; (4) that the government in your country cannot or is unwilling to protect you; and (5) that there is no other safe place in your country where you can live. This could be accomplished by highlighting cultural, societal, or even government-endorsed views that are prevalent in your home society regarding your respective social role and status in context with the perpetrator of domestic violence. For example, in some societies, it is not considered a crime for a husband to sexually assault and abuse their spouse.
The Process Domestic Violence Asylum
The domestic violence asylum process involves multiple steps, including:
- Successful completion and submission of Form I-589, a document created and maintained by U.S. Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Successful completion of an in-person interview with a USCIS officer or an immigration judge.
- If, during the interview or hearing, it is determined that you have a legitimate domestic violence asylum claim, they are likely to approve it. If, on the other hand, there is any uncertainty or red flags raised by the government, your domestic violence asylum case may be denied.
The domestic violence asylum process can be particularly challenging for members of the LGBTQ community. The roadblocks and hindrances that may be encountered can come in the form of the following:
- Challenges securing the proper legal documentation;
- Backlash and violence from people in your country of origin; and/or
- Navigating an overly complex and convoluted legal system.
It can seem almost impossible to successfully overcome these challenges. Do not give up. Instead, retain the services of the experienced and confident Bueno Law Warriors. When you have our asylum law firm on your side, we will help you during every step of the process and take much of the burden off your shoulders when it comes to filing the correct legal paperwork and effectively navigating the complexities (and avoiding the pitfalls) associated with the U.S. immigration system.
Legal Protection and Support for
LGBTQ Warriors
If you are a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community and are being subjected to domestic violence, then you may be able to seek asylum in the United States. This is due to the fact that, in accordance with U.S. immigration law, individuals who identify as LGBTQ are considered to belong to a group of individuals who share a characteristic that has been persecuted because of their membership in that group. This means individuals who identify as transgender, homosexual, or queer could be considered members of a qualifying group and therefore eligible to seek asylum.
Case Study: Bueno Law’s Experience with LGBTQ+ Asylum Cases
Our client testimonials and success stories speak for themselves. Here are just a couple of the things our clients have said about Bueno Law:
“If you’re ever thinking of taking good care of your immigrant status, there’s no wrong going with Bueno Law. Super awesome and friendly staff that makes you feel comfy and confident!”
-H.L.A.
“What a professional and amazing team! The support I had throughout the whole process was incredible. Totally recommend – Stellar team!”
-C.S.
Why Choose Bueno Law for Domestic Violence Asylum
If you are seeking asylum as a result of domestic abuse, Bueno Law stands ready and able to help you during this difficult time. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorneys and staff understand the deep pain and intense trauma associated with fleeing your native country due to domestic violence. For example, our firm proudly represented many clients who ran away from horrible situations and came to the United States full of physical and emotional scars Nevertheless, they exerted strength and bravery and agreed to meet with Fernanda Bueno, the founder of Bueno Law Corp. Fortunately, their cases were approved and today they have freedom and safety in the United States.
Contact Us Today
If you have questions about the domestic violence asylum process and your legal rights, Bueno Law is here to help. We are an office of immigrants working on behalf of immigrants. Our legal team possesses a deep passion, in addition to practical experience and knowledge, for helping members of the immigrant community navigate the inherent complexities of the asylum process. Contact our office today to book an appointment.