Humanitarian Visas Attorneys in New Bern, NC
Understanding T Visas and U Visas
Humanitarian visas, such as T visas and U visas, are vital tools for individuals seeking safety and justice in the United States. These visas offer protection and legal status to victims of severe crimes, allowing them to rebuild their lives while contributing to law enforcement efforts.
E. A. Wood Law Firm is committed to providing compassionate legal assistance to those navigating these complex processes in New Bern, NC.
What Are T Visas and U Visas?
Both T visas and U visas serve survivors of traumatic circumstances, but their purposes are tailored to address specific needs.
T Visa
This visa is designed for victims of human trafficking, whether labor or sex trafficking. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they are in the U.S. due to trafficking, comply with reasonable law enforcement requests, and show that removal from the U.S. would result in extreme hardship. The T visa allows victims to stay in the U.S. for up to four years and may provide a pathway to permanent residency.
U Visa
This visa is available to victims of qualifying crimes, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, or kidnapping, who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse. Applicants must cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. The U visa also protects victims from deportation and offers a path to legal residency.
The History of Humanitarian Visas
The T visa and U visa programs were established in 2000 under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA). This landmark legislation was a response to the growing recognition of human trafficking and other violent crimes as severe human rights violations. The VTVPA aimed to combat trafficking, protect victims, and strengthen law enforcement's ability to prosecute offenders.
While no single case directly prompted the creation of these visas, the late 1990s saw increased awareness of trafficking and violence against vulnerable populations, including women and children. Advocacy from human rights organizations and reports of trafficking incidents highlighted the need for comprehensive legal protections. The VTVPA was a culmination of these efforts, marking a significant step in U.S. immigration and human rights policy.
Key Differences Between T Visas and U Visas
While both visas are humanitarian, there are significant differences in their focus and eligibility requirements.
Key differences include the following:
- Purpose: T visas specifically address human trafficking, whereas U visas cover a broader range of crimes.
- Annual Cap: U visas are limited to 10,000 approvals annually, often resulting in long wait times. T visas have a cap of 5,000, but this is rarely reached.
- Eligibility: T visa applicants must prove their trafficking experience, while U visa applicants need evidence of substantial harm and cooperation with law enforcement.
Choosing between a T visa and a U visa depends on your circumstances, and consulting with an experienced attorney can help determine the right path.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Navigating T visa and U visa applications can feel overwhelming given the complexity and emotional toll of the process. Working with a knowledgeable attorney improves your chances of success by ensuring all evidence is properly prepared, deadlines are met, and legal obstacles are addressed effectively.
At E. A. Wood Law Firm, we’re well-versed in supporting humanitarian visa applicants in New Bern, NC. Our team provides personalized guidance and unwavering advocacy to help you achieve safety and stability. Additionally, New Bern offers community resources, such as victim support organizations and counseling services, to assist visa applicants during challenging times.
If you or a loved one needs assistance with a T visa or U visa, our compassionate immigration attorneys are here to help.
Contact E. A. Wood Law Firm today for professional legal assistance in New Bern, NC.
E. A. Wood Law Firm Team
Hear From Our Previous Clients
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"Elizabeth Wood was the best choice we ever made."
Elizabeth Wood was the best choice we ever made when starting immigration paperwork for my then fiancé to join me here in the US from Italy. We had moments where things went differently than expected with the process and the peace of mind and relief I felt knowing that we weren't navigating anything alone was absolutely priceless. I would tell anyone going through an immigration process here in NC to definitely talk with Elizabeth. Thank you Elizabeth and team for making our dream of getting married and being together come true!- Allison Dye -
"This law firm is the best one ever."
This law firm is the best one ever. If you are looking for an affordable and outstanding immigration lawyer that also works with military families, I highly recommend this law firm. I had the great experience of working with Mrs. Elizabeth Wood and her exceptional staff. They were always helpful and answered all my questions whenever I needed help. Mrs. Elizabeth Wood began working on my case in 2019, where she helped me obtain my permanent resident card, and this year, she helped me get my US citizenship. I will forever be grateful with this law firm and especially with Mrs. Elizabeth Wood and Evelyn Rodriguez.- Sandra -
"Exceptional in their work ethic and timely manner in providing updates"
I will forever be grateful for Isa Gratacós and her assistant Yarenis Montero for helping my parents achieve one of their greatest dreams, to finally become permanent residents of the United States. Isa and Yarenis were exceptional in their work ethic and timely manner in providing us updates about the case along with other legalities. Thank you for changing our lives and giving us hope for a brighter future and thank you for all the work you do for your other clients in similar situations.- Vanderley Alexio-Arredondo -
"The staff has gone above and beyond..."
Definitely recommend this Law Firm if you're looking to get your citizenship, green card ,Visa, work card. The staff here has gone above and beyond anything I expected. truly worth every penny.- Chantale Jones -
"Hire Elizabeth Wood, you’ll be glad you did!"
Elizabeth Wood has been helping me for the past 14 months to get my citizenship and today was finally the day! I very highly recommend the E. A. Wood Law Firm. Elizabeth and her Assistant have stayed on top of everything for me and have kept me up to date at all times! Elizabeth has made a pretty stressful affair a pleasant experience and I’m so grateful that I had her at my side today! For anyone considering it, do NOT hesitate, hire Elizabeth Wood, you’ll be glad you did! Thanks again for everything!- Birgit O'neal -
"Hard Working"
Good afternoon Elizabeth and staff. We praise God today as the interview went on successfully. The passports were taken from them and they were asked to return next week Thursday at 2pm for their visa. On my behalf and my family am sending our thanks and appreciations to you in particular and your hard working staffs especially EVELYN CUEVAS for her relentless phone calls and prompts responses throughout the process. With that being said, i will continue to be grateful to you and your law firm by sending out the good image of your office. Your regards YAHAYA A.K. SAWANEH- Yahaya A.K. Sawaneh -
"The lawyers guide you with correct information and encourage you to do the right thing. They work with you passionately." "They take the time to know your story in order to find a solution." "We need to trust the attorneys that are willing to meet face to face, not be bothered by your questions, understand your concerns and who don't play with your emotions."- Adriana Rodriguez Juarez
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"High quality of services"
I highly recommend Elizabeth Wood she is very knowledgeable about immigration law. High quality of services- Maria Frausto
Our Results Speak for Themselves
Real People, Real Results
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Obtained Citizenship Naturalization
We worked with the client to improve their reading and writing in English. After several months they were able to re-take the civics test and passed.
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Permanent Residence Card Obtained Violence Against Women Act
We were able to assist him in getting his lawful permanent residence card and in 5 years he will be able to apply for citizenship.
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Extension of E2 Visa Approved Employment Visas
A manufacturer in Eastern North Carolina needed help with one of their key employees from Germany. They required an extension of their E2 visa.
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Removal Proceedings Terminated Removal Proceedings
Judge agreed with our opinion and terminated her removal proceedings. This allowed us to apply for her lawful permanent residence card. We are happy to report that she received her card in January 2019.
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Permanent Residence Card Obtained Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals to Lawful Permanent Resident to Citizenship
One of our DACA clients later applied and received his lawful permanent residence card and just recently became a U.S. Citizen.
