Can a U Visa Attorney in Orange County Help Crime Victims?

If you’ve been the victim of a crime, you may be carrying fear on top of everything else, especially if you’re worried about your immigration status. Many people stay silent because they’re afraid of what might happen if they come forward. If you’ve heard about the U visa and want to talk with a U visa attorney in Orange County, you deserve clear, honest information.

The U visa is a form of immigration status for certain crime victims who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement. People generally apply using Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so we’ll cover the basics, common mistakes, and how an attorney can help.

Call (714) 978-8100 for a free, confidential consultation. Hablamos español.

What Is a U Visa?

If you are in danger right now, call 911. You can also reach the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

In general, the U visa was created for people who:

• Were victims of certain qualifying crimes
• Suffered mental or physical abuse because of the crime
• Have information about the crime
• Have been, are being, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement or prosecutors

Domestic violence is one of the crimes that may qualify, along with others such as sexual assault. Whether your situation fits depends on the facts, and an attorney should review it carefully.

How the U Visa Process Generally Works

Every case is different, but the process usually involves these general steps:

1. Meeting with an attorney to review what happened and your immigration history
2. Requesting a signed certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a law enforcement agency, prosecutor, judge, or other certifying agency
3. Gathering supporting evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and a personal statement
4. Filing Form I-918 and supporting documents with USCIS
5. Responding to any USCIS requests for more information

There is a yearly limit on how many U visas can be approved, so the process can take a long time. An attorney can help you understand what to expect along the way, including which documents to keep, how to update USCIS if you move, and what to do if you receive a notice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A U visa case often involves sensitive details, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right. Try to avoid these common missteps:

• Assuming you have no options before talking to an attorney
• Leaving out past immigration or criminal history
• Submitting an incomplete application or missing documents
• Relying on “notarios” or unlicensed consultants for legal advice
• Missing a USCIS deadline or request for evidence

Some of these mistakes can delay a case or cause other problems. If you’re considering a U visa, call (714) 978-8100 today so an attorney can review your situation before you file.

How a U Visa Attorney in Orange County Can Help

An attorney can explain your options, help you request certification, and prepare a complete application. Our team can help you:

• Review whether a U visa may be an option for you
• Communicate with the certifying agency
• Gather evidence and prepare your personal statement
• File your petition and respond to USCIS requests

Explore our immigration services and all of our practice areas.

Why Families Come to Corrales Law Group

Corrales Law Group was founded in 2012 by siblings Peter Corrales and Janice Corrales as a human rights law firm focused on advocating for the underserved and underrepresented. We know how hard it can be to talk about what happened, and we’ll listen with patience and respect.

Everyone in our office is fluent in Spanish. We return calls and messages within 24 business hours and offer in-home visits for certain clients with disabilities or no transportation. You can read what clients say on our reviews page.

Serving Orange, Santa Ana, Garden Grove, and Fullerton

Our office in Orange welcomes immigrants and families from Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Fullerton, and across Orange County. See all the areas we serve on our locations page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a U visa if I’m undocumented?

People without lawful immigration status may apply, but eligibility depends on each person’s situation. An attorney should review your case before you file anything.

Do I need a police report to apply for a U visa?

Not always, but you generally need a signed certification from a law enforcement or other certifying agency. A police report can be helpful evidence, and an attorney can explain what your case may need.

Can my family members be included in a U visa?

Certain family members may be able to apply as derivatives. Which relatives can be included depends on your age and relationship, so an attorney should review your situation.

How long does the U visa process take?

It often takes a long time because of high demand and a yearly limit on approvals. USCIS processing times can change, and an attorney can help you understand what to expect.

Talk to a U Visa Attorney in Orange County Today

You don’t have to face this alone. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your options with care.

Call Corrales Law Group at (714) 978-8100 or contact us online for your free, confidential consultation.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different.