U Visa & VAWA Lawyers in Fresno

Immigration Protection for Clients in Clovis & the Central Valley

At Andrade Auld Law, we are committed to helping immigrants who have suffered abuse or been victims of certain crimes find safety and legal protection under U.S. immigration law. Our team provides client-focused solutions and ensures each person is treated with respect and dignity throughout the process. If you are searching for a VAWA immigration attorney in Fresno who understands the local landscape and your personal concerns, we are here to help. 

Two of the most potent tools available are the U visa and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petition. While each offers a different form of relief, both are designed to provide a path toward stability and lawful immigration status for vulnerable individuals in Fresno and the Central Valley. Whether you are a survivor of abuse or a victim of a qualifying crime, a VAWA immigration lawyer in Fresno can help you understand your options and advocate for your future. 

Our immigration attorneys work with clients to help determine which option is right for your situation and guide you through every stage of the legal process with compassion, discretion, and unwavering professionalism. We offer individualized guidance to help you feel confident and informed in your decisions.

Request a free consultation appointment with a Fresno attorney for U visas and VAWA by contacting us at (559) 517-3733. Hablamos español. 

What Is VAWA?

VAWA allows certain non-citizens who have experienced abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member to file a petition for legal status without the abuser’s involvement or knowledge. This self-petition process protects victims from being forced to remain in abusive relationships for fear of losing their immigration status. Working with an experienced VAWA immigration lawyer in Fresno can make this process considerably more accessible and secure.

Eligible applicants include:

• Spouses and former spouses of U.S. citizens or green card holders
• Children (under 21 and unmarried) of abusive U.S. citizens or green card holders
• Parents of abusive U.S. citizen children over the age of 21

To qualify, the abuse must have occurred in the U.S., and the applicant must demonstrate good moral character and have lived with the abuser at some point. A VAWA immigration attorney in Fresno can help clients collect and present the appropriate evidence required by federal immigration authorities, improving the likelihood of a successful case outcome.

For those considering a VAWA self-petition in the Fresno area, it’s important to understand the specific steps involved as well as the types of evidence that may strengthen your case. Applicants often need to provide documentation such as police reports, medical records, or affidavits from community members and organizations relevant to the Central Valley. In many cases, it can be helpful to work with a VAWA immigration lawyer Fresno residents trust, as legal guidance helps navigate complex forms and deadlines set by both federal guidelines and local authorities. Additionally, support organizations in Fresno and Clovis can assist with counseling or shelter services, which may provide meaningful evidence in your petition. Our team is familiar with the local resources and agencies in Fresno County, making it easier for clients to gather the documentation needed for a more robust application and to present a compelling case to authorities.

Understanding the VAWA Application Process in Fresno

Applying for VAWA protection in Fresno involves several essential steps, and being informed about the process helps you feel more in control. Once eligibility is established, you are responsible for submitting Form I-360 to the USCIS, along with substantial supporting documentation demonstrating abuse, your relationship to the abuser, residency, and good moral character. For those living in the Central Valley, this can mean collecting records from local agencies such as the Fresno Police Department or medical providers in the region. This is why having a skilled VAWA immigration attorney in Fresno on your side can make a significant difference. After your initial petition is submitted, you may receive requests for further evidence or an interview notice from the immigration office serving Fresno and surrounding communities.

At Andrade Auld Law, we take a proactive, client-centered approach by preparing you for each stage of the application process, following up with the applicable local USCIS field office, and ensuring each submission is thorough and addresses every requirement. We understand that uncertainty can be stressful, which is why we maintain open communication at every step so you’re never left wondering about your case’s progress. Our knowledge of Fresno-area resources—including interpreters, partnerships with local social service organizations, and experience with local legal processes—means you receive both compassionate care and powerful advocacy for your future in the Central Valley. Our goal is to support you in pursuing safety and legal stability, while reducing burdens caused by bureaucracy and red tape.

What Is a U Visa?

The U visa is a form of relief for victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial physical or emotional harm and are willing to assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime. Unlike VAWA, the U visa is not limited to family-based abuse and can apply to a wide range of criminal activity. A U visa immigration attorney in Fresno can help evaluate your eligibility and build a strong application.

Qualifying crimes include:

• Domestic violence
• Sexual assault
• Human trafficking
• Stalking
• Kidnapping
• Slave trade
• Prostitution
• Extortion
• Manslaughter or murder
• Witness tampering
• Obstruction of justice
• And many other similar crimes

This comprehensive list allows victims of severe abuse or exploitation to access immigration relief and contribute to the pursuit of justice. A U visa immigration lawyer in Fresno understands how to navigate requirements and procedures specific to the greater Central Valley area.

Navigating the U visa process in Fresno requires multiple coordinated steps, including certification by a local law enforcement agency confirming that you have assisted in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. With the proximity of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California and active collaboration among Fresno community organizations, obtaining necessary paperwork and recommendations is more accessible for our clients. Working with a U visa immigration attorney in Fresno means having an advocate who can communicate directly with the Fresno Police Department, Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, or other agencies as required. Our legal team stays updated on processing timelines affecting Fresno and the Central Valley, ensuring our counsel always reflects current procedures and best practices for successful U visa applications.

Benefits of the U visa include:

• Lawful status for up to four years (renewable in some cases)
• Work authorization
• Eligibility to apply for a green card after three years