Overview
At Wakrim Law Firm, we represent individuals seeking safety or protection under U.S. humanitarian immigration law. Whether you’re fleeing persecution, trafficking, or domestic abuse, our Boston-based team provides compassionate, strategic advocacy—from asylum applications to violence-based petitions.
Who Qualifies for Humanitarian Relief
- Asylum Seekers: Individuals in the U.S. who fear persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- Refugees: Persons outside the U.S. who undergo the U.N. refugee application and resettlement process before arriving.
- U-Visa Applicants: Victims of certain crimes (e.g., assault, domestic violence) who assist law enforcement and face hardship if removed.
- T-Visa Applicants: Victims of human trafficking (sex or labor) who comply with reasonable requests for assistance in investigations.
- VAWA Self-Petitions: Survivors of domestic violence by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent.
Documentary Evidence & Advocacy
- Country Reports & Expert Declarations: Leverage reputable sources (e.g., U.S. State Department, Human Rights Watch) and expert affidavits on conditions in your home country.
- Medical & Psychological Evaluations: Document trauma from persecution, assault, or trafficking to strengthen credibility.
- Law-Enforcement Certifications: Ensure timely coordination with local or federal agencies for U-visa and T-visa support.
- Witness Statements: Prepare clear, detailed affidavits from family members, friends, or service-provider professionals.
Our Humanitarian Case Process
Initial Screening & Strategy (1–2 weeks)
- Conduct a sensitive intake interview to assess eligibility for asylum, refugee status, U-visa, T-visa, VAWA, or TPS.
- Develop a case plan tailored to personal history, evidentiary needs, and filing deadlines.
2. Application Preparation (4–8 weeks)
- Draft primary petition (Form I-589, DS-260, I-918, I-914, I-360, or I-821) with supporting narrative.
- Gather corroborating evidence: country-condition reports, medical records, police reports, affidavits, and expert declarations.
3. Filing & Receipt Notices
- File petitions with USCIS or U.S. Department of State, ensuring timely submission before deadlines (one year for asylum, etc.).
- Monitor receipt notices and prepare for any Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
4. Interview & Credibility Preparation
- For asylum: prepare for credible fear interviews and credible fear reconsiderations.
- For U- and T-visas: coordinate law-enforcement certifications (Form I-918 Supplement B or I-914 Supplement B).
- For VAWA: compile witness affidavits and evidence of relationship and abuse.
- Provide mock-interview coaching to bolster credibility and minimize mistakes.
5. Appeals & Motions
- If denied, file a timely appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) or a motion to reopen/reconsider with new evidence.
- Craft persuasive briefs addressing legal and factual deficiencies in the initial decision.
Timeline & Typical Fees
| Stage | Timeline | Fee Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Screening | 1–2 weeks | Flat fee |
| Petition Preparation | 4–8 weeks | Flat + translation |
| USCIS Filing & Biometrics | 2–4 months | USCIS fees + hourly |
| Interview & Decision | 6–12 months | Hourly |
| Appeals / Motions | 3–9 months | Hourly |
| Total Case Management | 12–24 months | Combined flat + hourly |
USCIS and consulate fees vary by category; detailed estimates provided in your engagement letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I file asylum after one year in the U.S.?
Yes, but you must show changed circumstances or extraordinary conditions to excuse the delay.
Q: What if my U-visa law-enforcement certification is delayed?
We liaise directly with certifying agencies to expedite Form I-918 Supplement B.
Q: Do I need an attorney for VAWA self-petition?
While not mandatory, legal counsel greatly increases success by organizing sensitive evidence and protecting confidentiality.
Q: Can TPS lead to a green card?
TPS itself does not grant permanent residency, but we explore concurrent avenues (e.g., adjustment via family petition).
Q: How do I prove I was trafficked?
Detailed narratives, law-enforcement or service-provider letters, and medical documentation form the core evidence.
Q: What happens if my asylum interview is denied?
You can appeal to the BIA or file in federal court; we draft comprehensive appeals emphasizing legal precedent.
Q: Are humanitarian visas subject to annual caps?
Asylum and VAWA have no annual limit; U-visas and T-visas are capped but may qualify for deferred action if the cap is reached.
Q: How do I work while my case is pending?
Asylum applicants can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 150 days after filing; U- and T-visa petitioners receive work authorization upon receipt.