When you have survived human trafficking, the immigration system can feel overwhelming. Our team helps victims and their families pursue safety and stability through the T visa program in Gaithersburg. If you need a T visa lawyer in Gaithersburg, we are here to guide you.
At Mendoza Law, our humanitarian visa lawyers in Gaithersburg help with T visa applications, I-914 supplements, law enforcement certifications, waivers, work authorization, and adjustment of status. We also assist family members seeking derivative status.
Who Qualifies for a T Visa in Gaithersburg?
You may qualify for a T visa if you are or were a victim of a severe form of trafficking, sex trafficking, or labor trafficking within the United States or affecting U.S. territory. Our Gaithersburg immigration lawyer can help you if you have been trafficked.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) looks at how the traffickers recruited, transported, harbored, or obtained you, and whether force, fraud, or coercion was used. Children under 18 do not need to show force, fraud, or coercion in sex trafficking cases.
In addition to being a victim, you must show you are physically present in the U.S. on account of trafficking, and that you would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if removed. The law also expects victims to be helpful to reasonable requests from law enforcement, unless you are under a qualifying age or have trauma-related exceptions.
For a free case evaluation with a t visa lawyer serving Gaithersburg, call +1 (202) 933-3379
The T Visa Application Process Step by Step
Filing a strong T visa package centers on the Form I-914 and detailed evidence. Our T visa lawyers in Gaithersburg tailor your personal statement, organize corroborating records, and prepare supplements for family members when eligible. If you qualify for fee exemptions or need a waiver, we include those filings to keep your case moving.
We also prepare you for biometrics, respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and track your case status. If you qualify for Continued Presence or other victim-based protections, we discuss interim options while your application is pending. We can help you gather:
- Detailed personal statement describing trafficking, movement, control, and harm
- Police reports, court records, or investigative memos, if available
- Medical, counseling, or shelter records that document trauma or exploitation
- Employment, housing, or financial records showing fraud, coercion, or control
- Sworn statements from witnesses, advocates, or caseworkers
- Proof of physical presence and hardship, including country conditions evidence
Gaithersburg T Visa Lawyer Near Me +1 (202) 933-3379
Our T Visa Lawyer in Gaithersburg Can Explain Cooperation With Law Enforcement and the Form I-914, Supplement B
Victims are generally expected to be helpful to law enforcement investigations or prosecutions when asked, unless an exception applies. Help can mean giving a statement, providing documents, or appearing in court when safe. We discuss safety planning and how to respond to requests so you can participate without exposing yourself to avoidable risk.
The Form I-914, Supplement B, is a declaration from a law enforcement agency confirming your victimization and helpfulness. While this form is not strictly required, it can strengthen your case. If you do not have a Form I-914, Supplement B, USCIS can still approve based on other credible evidence. We work to obtain the strongest possible proof, with or without the certification.
If your fear of retaliation or trauma affects cooperation, we present documentation explaining why. Youth and certain vulnerable victims may be exempt from cooperation. We make those arguments with supporting records from clinicians, advocates, or case managers.
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Overcoming Inadmissibility and Addressing RFEs
Some survivors worry about past immigration violations, unauthorized work, or minor criminal issues. The T visa law allows waivers for many inadmissibility grounds when in the public interest or for humanitarian reasons. We prepare the waiver request with a clear explanation, supporting records, and evidence of rehabilitation or victimization.
If USCIS issues an RFE, it means they need more information. RFEs can ask for proof of identity, physical presence, hardship, or helpfulness to law enforcement. We map out a plan, gather missing items, and submit a targeted response that answers each point.
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Life After Approval: Work, Benefits, and the Path to a Green Card in Gaithersburg
A T visa can open the door to stability. You may receive work authorization, access federally funded benefits in some categories, and qualify for certain state services. We help you update your I-9 for employment, get a Social Security card, and understand the benefits you can lawfully use.
After three years in T status or earlier if the trafficking investigation is complete, you may be able to apply for a green card. We evaluate the timeline, confirm continuous physical presence, and collect the records needed for adjustment of status under the T category.
Fees, Timelines, and How We Communicate
We discuss fees up front so you know what to expect. Many T visa filings do not require a government filing fee, and certain waivers may be available. We also offer payment options for legal fees and can phase work based on your priorities.
Processing times vary depending on USCIS workload, background checks, and whether an RFE is issued. Our T visa lawyers in Gaithersburg monitor your case, send you updates, and keep copies of everything we submit. If your safety or health requires faster action, we can request an expedition with supporting evidence.
Communication should be simple and safe. We work with you to choose secure methods, schedule regular check-ins, and provide copies in your preferred language when possible. If you move, we update your address with USCIS promptly to protect your mail and your case.
Contact Our T Visa Lawyer in Gaithersburg
If you or a loved one suffered trafficking and needs a T visa attorney in Gaithersburg, Mendoza Law is ready to help you plan the next step. We handle applications, waivers, law enforcement certifications, RFEs, and green card planning with a steady, trauma-aware approach.
Your safety and long-term stability matter. Contact us to discuss your situation and get a clear path forward. We are here to help you file a strong case and move toward lasting security.
Call or text +1 (202) 933-3379 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
