VAWA Success Story: Abril’s Journey to Legal Status

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Please note: The client’s name and case details have been altered to preserve identity. This success story is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Ever case is unique.

Abril’s Early Struggles

Abril first came to the United States from Mexico in 1992 as an EWI (Entry Without Inspection) and worked tirelessly in the Southern U.S. to make ends meet. In 2011, after the birth of her son Jaime, she returned to Mexico so he could grow up with family support.

In 2012, Abril attempted to return to the U.S. for work but was apprehended and removed. A second attempt resulted in another removal and a permanent bar, meaning any green card request would be denied indefinitely.

A Risky Return and a Shocking Discovery

Determined to support her son, Abril eventually re-entered the U.S. with the help of a coyote. She found work as a bilingual office assistant but soon discovered the company was involved in labor trafficking. Abril documented evidence intending to report it, but fate intervened when a border run accident exposed the entire operation. Abril’s documentation made her a key witness, and her testimony helped convict the traffickers.

Although Abril was not granted a U visa due to complications with the permanent bar, she was allowed to remain in the U.S. under ICE supervision and received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) under category C18.

New Challenges: Domestic Violence

Abril reunited with Jaime and later married Leo, a U.S. citizen. For a time, life seemed stable—until Leo became abusive. In 2015, police were called, and Leo faced domestic violence charges. By 2018, Abril separated from him, fearing for her safety and her son’s well-being.

Seeking Help Through VAWA

Concerned about her immigration status under changing policies, Abril contacted the Margaret W. Wong team in Atlanta. After reviewing her case, we determined that the best path forward—and the foundation of this VAWA immigration success story—was through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which allows abused spouses of U.S. citizens to self-petition for legal status via Form I-360.

Abril gathered evidence, including the 2015 police report, neighbor statements, and testimony from Leo’s relatives. The hardest part? Proving Leo’s citizenship. With help from his aunt, we obtained his birth certificate from Pittsburgh.

In June 2019, we filed Abril’s I-360 petition. Two Prima facie determinations followed, securing her presence in the U.S. while awaiting a final decision. Abril finalized her divorce and began rebuilding her life. Our team ensured her EAD renewals were timely.

Finally, in April 2021, Abril’s I-360 was approved, granting her the right to live in the U.S. despite the permanent bar. While her green card prospects depend on future policy changes, Abril is deeply grateful for the outcome. Abril’s VAWA immigration success story shows that even complex cases can have positive outcomes with the right legal help.

If you or someone you know needs help with an immigration case, our experienced team is here for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.