If you survived a crime and want safe, stable immigration relief, a U visa lawyer in Gaithersburg can guide your next steps. At Mendoza Law, we help immigrant victims and qualifying family members apply for U nonimmigrant status and related benefits in Gaithersburg and the greater Montgomery County area.
Our humanitarian visa lawyer in Gaithersburg we handle certification requests, Form I-918 filings, derivative family petitions, waivers, work authorization, and the path to a green card. Our goal is to protect your safety, privacy, and future.
Who Qualifies for a U Visa?
You may qualify for U status if you are a victim of certain crimes, suffered substantial physical or mental abuse, and have been helpful to law enforcement. The crime must have occurred in the United States or violated U.S. law. You will also need a signed law enforcement certification. Eligibility generally includes:
- You were a direct or indirect victim of a qualifying criminal activity
- You suffered substantial physical or psychological harm
- You have information about the crime
- You were helpful, are being helpful, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement
- You are admissible to the U.S., or you qualify for a waiver
Qualifying crimes include domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, stalking, felonious assault, extortion, and related attempts or conspiracies. Certain family members can qualify as derivatives, such as spouses and children; parents may qualify when the victim is under 21. Our Gaithersburg immigration lawyer can help you understand if you qualify.
For a free case evaluation with an u visa lawyer serving Gaithersburg, call +1 (202) 933-3379
How the U Visa Certification Works
A signed Form I-918, Supplement B (the “certification”) from a law-enforcement agency is a cornerstone of every case. This confirms that you were a victim and that you were helpful in the investigation or prosecution. Without it, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will not approve a U status.
In and around Gaithersburg, possible certifying agencies include the Gaithersburg Police Department, the Montgomery County Police Department, the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office, and certain federal agencies operating locally. Each agency has its own policies, timing, and evidentiary expectations.
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Our U Visa Lawyer in Gaithersburg Can Build a Persuasive Record for Your Application
Strong evidence makes a difference. Your declaration should tell your story clearly, explain how the crime harmed you, and show how you assisted law enforcement. Medical and counseling records can document trauma and ongoing care needs. Our team of U visa lawyers in Gaithersburg can help you collect:
- Detailed personal statement describing the incident and resulting harm
- Police reports, charging documents, or court records
- Medical, counseling, or victim services records
- Photos, messages, or other contemporaneous documentation
- Sworn letters from witnesses, advocates, or community leaders
- Proof of residence and identity, including certified translations where needed
We also address safety concerns, confidentiality, and risks of retaliation. If you moved or changed numbers due to the crime, we explain those circumstances so officers can reach you without jeopardizing your privacy.
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Filing Forms I-918 and I-918 Supplement A in Gaithersburg
Your filing typically includes Form I-918 for the principal applicant and, when applicable, Form I-918 Supplement A for qualifying family members. We assemble the certification, declarations, supporting records, and any required waiver requests into a well-organized packet.
USCIS requires biometrics and background checks for you and any derivatives. There is no filing fee for Form I-918, but some related forms may have fees or require a fee waiver. Accuracy, consistency, and clear explanations help avoid avoidable Requests for Evidence and delays.
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Waivers for Inadmissibility and Prior Immigration Issues
Many applicants need Form I-192 to request a waiver of inadmissibility. USCIS reviews the total picture, weighing any past immigration or criminal issues against your victimization, rehabilitation, service to the community, and family ties. For some grounds, U cases offer broader forgiveness than other categories.
We present positive equities in a structured way: your cooperation with law enforcement, steps you have taken to address any past mistakes, and the impact on your family if relief is denied. If you have pending cases or prior orders, we coordinate strategy and timing with care.
Work Authorization, Travel, and Path to a Green Card in Gaithersburg
USCIS may grant deferred action and work authorization after a bona fide determination of your U case. This allows you to work legally while you wait for a final decision. Keep your address current with USCIS to receive notices and EADs without interruption.
International travel is risky during a pending U case. Even with advance parole, departure could disrupt your status or trigger bars. Once granted U status, travel still carries risks that you should discuss with counsel before making plans.
After three years of continuous physical presence in U status, you may be eligible to apply for a green card. You must continue to meet statutory requirements, including ongoing cooperation where requested, and show that your adjustment is warranted as a matter of discretion.
Timelines, Backlogs, and What to Expect
Congress caps U status grants for principal applicants at 10,000 per year, not counting derivatives. Since demand exceeds the cap, many cases move onto a waiting list. The bona fide determination process can provide work authorization while you wait for a final decision.
Timelines vary based on background checks, evidence quality, and agency workload. Our U visa lawyers in Gaithersburg monitor case movement, respond to USCIS notices, and prepare updates as needed. If your address or contact details change, we file updates promptly to keep your case moving.
Processing can feel slow, but steady documentation and clear communication help avoid unnecessary setbacks. If law enforcement needs additional assistance from you, timely responses can strengthen your record of helpfulness.
Contact Our U Visa Lawyer in Gaithersburg
If you or a loved one survived a crime and needs protection, Mendoza Law is ready to help you pursue U status with care and precision. We will review your facts, map the best strategy, and move your case forward without delay.
Reach out today to speak with a Gaithersburg U visa lawyer who takes your safety and outcome seriously. Let’s start your application, secure work authorization, and plan the path to permanent residence.
Call or text +1 (202) 933-3379 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
