Asylum and protection
Protection for people who can't safely go home
Asylum, U visas for victims of crimes, VAWA self-petitions for people harmed by a family member, and Temporary Protected Status.
These cases rest on your own story, told in your words and backed by evidence. We listen in a private room, and we tell you honestly how strong the case looks before you decide to file. If you're in danger right now, call 911.
Cases we take
Asylum, before USCIS or in immigration court
U visas and VAWA self-petitions
TPS registrations and renewals
Kinds of protection
Asylum
For people who fear harm in their home country. Most applications are due within a year of arrival.
U visas
For victims of certain crimes in the U.S. who helped, or are willing to help, the police.
VAWA self-petitions
For spouses, children and parents abused by a citizen or resident relative, filed without the abuser's involvement.
Temporary Protected Status
For people from designated countries, with registration and work permit dates to keep.
Fees
Our fee for protection cases
These cases take more hours, so we spread payments over the months it takes to prepare them.
- Asylum application: a flat fee, quoted in writing
- U visa or VAWA petition: a flat fee, quoted in writing
- TPS registration or renewal: a flat fee, quoted in writing
- Court cases: quoted at the consultation
USCIS and the State Department charge their own filing fees. Those go straight to the government and aren't part of our fee, and we'll tell you if you may qualify for a waiver.
Questions about asylum and protection
I've been here more than a year. Is it too late for asylum?
Not always. There are exceptions for changed circumstances, and some other protections have no deadline. Either way, come in soon.
Will the person who hurt me find out about a VAWA case?
USCIS doesn't contact the abuser, and the law protects what's in your file. We'll talk about your safety at the first visit.
Do I need a police report for a U visa?
You need the police, a prosecutor or another agency to sign a form saying you were a victim and helped. A report helps, and we can ask the agency to sign.