If you are applying for a green card under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), your personal declaration is potentially one of the most important pieces of evidence in support of your case. This statement explains your relationship with the abuser and the mistreatment you experienced. A clear and detailed declaration can help strengthen your petition.

 

 

The declaration should cover how you met the abuser, your courtship, engagement, how you decided to marry.  You should also provide information about your shared residence.  Most importantly, however, you discuss all types of abuse including physical, emotional, psychological, verbal, or financial and how the abusive behavior impacted you.

 

Explain how the abuse affected your daily life, mental or physical health, and ability to work or study. If you sought medical care, therapy, or legal help, include that information. If you reported the abuse to the police or confided in others, mention that as well and provide corroborating evidence.

 

Finally, describe your current situation and why VAWA protection is important for your safety and future. A well-prepared declaration can make a difference in your case. At our firm, our team completes a detailed declaration intake, asking questions and taking detailed notes during the conversation.  These notes are then used to draft a detailed declaration which is reviewed by 2 attorneys before filing to ensure accuracy and consistency.  The final declaration is also reviewed, edited (if needed), and ultimately approved by our client before inclusion in the VAWA packet.

 

 If you need help drafting your statement or filing your VAWA petition, our team at Agarwal Law Group can assist you. Call 703-348-1663 to schedule a consultation.