For those who have suffered abuse or control at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident

Find Safety and Independence Through a VAWA Self-Petition

Legal protection and permanent residence options for survivors of abuse
Confidential, trauma-informed representation
20+ years of experience helping victims rebuild stability through immigration relief

You deserve safety, dignity, and the right to live free from fear.

When Abuse Threatens Your Future, You Still Have Options

Many immigrants stay in unsafe relationships out of fear of losing legal status or being deported.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides a way out — allowing survivors of domestic violence, abuse, or cruelty by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child to apply for a green card independently, without the abuser’s knowledge or consent.

At Dinits Immigration Law, we understand that every survivor’s story is different. Our trauma-informed team listens with compassion, protects your privacy, and helps you take back control of your immigration status — safely and confidentially.

Call 516-208-2060 to speak with a trusted legal advocate today.

Start My VAWA Petition

What VAWA Offers Survivors

Independence from Your Abuser: You can apply for permanent residence without your spouse, parent, or child’s involvement.
Protection from Deportation: Once your VAWA petition is filed, removal proceedings may be paused or canceled.
Path to a Green Card: If your case is approved, you can apply for lawful permanent residency and work authorization.
Confidential Process: USCIS does not notify the abuser of your filing or case status.
Access to Work Authorization and Benefits: Approved applicants may qualify for employment authorization, healthcare, and support services.

Call 516-208-2060 to learn how VAWA can protect you.

Check Eligibility

Who Can Apply for VAWA

You may qualify if you are:

The spouse or former spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who abused you physically or emotionally.
The child (under 21) of an abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent.
The parent of an abusive U.S. citizen son or daughter.

To qualify, you must show that:

You lived with the abuser at some point.
You suffered battery or extreme cruelty.
You have good moral character.
Your marriage or relationship was genuine and not entered into for immigration purposes.

If you’re unsure whether your experience qualifies, we can review your case privately and explain your options.

Call 516-208-2060 to speak confidentially with our team.

Start My Case

Why Choose Dinits Immigration Law for VAWA Filings

1. Trauma-Informed Representation

We handle every case with sensitivity, confidentiality, and respect for your story.

2. Decades of Immigration Experience

With 20+ years in humanitarian immigration, Attorney Michelle Dinits has helped hundreds of survivors achieve safety and independence.

3. Bilingual Legal Support

We offer representation in English and Spanish to make communication safe and accessible.

4. Confidential, Secure Process

All VAWA filings are handled directly through USCIS—your abuser will not be contacted or notified.

5. A Path Toward Stability

We help survivors not only secure status but also access the next steps toward permanent residency and citizenship.

Call 516-208-2060 to take the first step safely.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 21 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Erik Ujvari 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My wife and I owe a debt of gratitude to Michelle Dinits, that goes far beyond a professional recommendation. She made the process very straightforward, we felt comfortable the entire time. She went above and beyond.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Keila Copetti 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot find enough words to express my gratitude for Michelle Dinits. Michelle did not just see me as a case number but a person who she truly supported and kept calm throughout the entire process. She made an incredibly complex process feel manageable and with her help, I was granted my green card . I would highly recommend Michelle, she will give excellent legal expertise and the compassion you deserve.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Yvonne Ujvari 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a mother, there is nothing harder than watching your child and their partner go through a period of intense stress and uncertainty. When my son and his wife decided to settle here on Long Island, we were all so happy, but the immigration process felt like a mountain standing in the way of their future. My daughter-in-law was understandably terrified of the F1 visa transition, and my son was just as anxious, knowing how much they both had to lose. Finding Michelle Dinits was the greatest blessing our family could have asked for. From our very first interaction, it was clear that Michelle didn't just see them as clients—she cared for them like family. She truly took my daughter-in-law under her wing, calming her fears with patience and expert guidance. She transformed a process that felt frightening and overwhelming into a clear manageable path. Watching the weight lift off their shoulders after each interaction with Michelle was heartwarming.  From residency to the Green Card, Michelle brought our entire family such peace of mind. She is more than just a brilliant attorney; she is a compassionate advocate who understands the heart behind the paperwork. We are eternally grateful to her for keeping our family together.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dan Ujvari 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. There are not enough stars here for Dinits Law.  As an engineer, I tend to overanalyze every detail. I interviewed at least five different immigration attorneys before finding Michelle. While others simply listed forms and fees, Michelle was the only one who articulated the entire process with absolute clarity and mastery.  I was truly impressed and asked her to represent us on the spot. Our family’s journey involved my daughter-in-law who came to the USA as an F1 visa student.  My son and her fell in love and after about two years, married here on Long Island. It was a high-stakes process for them.  They both found 'their person' and were terrified of a single mistake jeopardizing their future together. Michelle did far more than provide legal counsel. She took my daughter-in-law under her wing. Through conference calls and meticulous preparation, she turned a frightening legal hurdle into a manageable, step-by-step path. Michele “held their hands” from the initial residency request through the Green Card approval, and we are now awaiting the time when she can take her citizenship interview. We are thrilled!  The level of care, patience, and genuine humanity Michelle brought to my son and daughter-in-law’s case is something money cannot buy. We owe her a profound everlasting debt of gratitude for protecting our family’s future. If you want an attorney who combines elite legal expertise with true compassion, look no further than Dinits Law.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Charisse Linn Cabahug 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience working with Michelle as my immigration lawyer, especially when responding to my RFE (Request for Evidence). She was very knowledgeable, thorough, and attentive to every detail. Michelle clearly explained what documents were needed and guided me step by step through the entire process, which made a stressful situation much easier to handle. I highly recommend Michelle to anyone needing assistance with immigration matters.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Beverly Breier 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a pleasure working with Michelle. The process was simple and easy with her and the green card was received in record time. Highly recommend
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   M. Farkas 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michelle was incredibly professional, responsive, and efficient. She guided us smoothly through the entire green card process and we received approval much faster than expected. Thank you for the outstanding service—highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mahnoor Sajid 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michelle Dinits was very helpful in guiding me. Her experience was evident, and I appreciated her insights.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Eitan Zycer 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michelle is a great lawyer, I really recomend her. She was very efficient, and because of her the process was smooth and fast. Thanks Michelle!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Roberto Schapiro 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michelle is a Godsend! After my visa application failed with other lawyers, I was completely stressed and ready to give up. Then I found Michelle—a true blessing. The green card process is notoriously difficult and high-stakes, but Michelle's expertise and support gave me back my confidence. She is profoundly knowledgeable and a true professional. She didn't just "take my file"—she took me through the entire journey. What should have been agonizing was instead seamless, pleasant, and totally stress-free. Michelle was there every single step of the way, highly responsive, and incredibly detail-oriented. I got my green card in a short time with absolutely zero hiccups! The process was painless because she made it her priority. Michelle is the best decision you will ever make.