Lawful Permanent Residence Status Granted through VAWA Adjustment of Status – Matter of S.O.

S.O., a native and citizen of the United Kingdom, faced significant challenges when her marriage to a U.S. citizen turned abusive while she was in the United States on an O nonimmigrant visa. Despite the breakdown of her relationship, S.O. was still able to pursue lawful permanent residency in the U.S. through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). With expert guidance from the Law Office of Alexander R. Vail, S.O. successfully navigated this difficult process and was granted permanent resident status. This case demonstrates how an experienced immigration attorney can help individuals overcome obstacles in their immigration journey, even when faced with adverse personal circumstances.

LAWFUL PERMANENT RESIDENCE STATUS GRANTED THROUGH VAWA ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS Matter of S.O. (2025)

S.O. is a native and citizen of the United Kingdom who had entered the United States as an O nonimmigrant. Married to a U.S. citizen, S.O. and her spouse pursued adjustment of status on the basis of a Petition for Alien Relative (“Form I-130”) filed by S.O.’s spouse. While the case was pending, S.O.’s spouse became abusive, and the relationship could no longer be maintained. It was then that S.O. consulted with Alex who explained to S.O. that she could still pursue adjustment of status pursuant to the Violence Against Women Act (“VAWA”). Accordingly, Alex helped S.O. with the preparation and submission of a Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant (“Form I-360”) and ensured that enough evidence was included to meet all statutory elements for VAWA-based adjustment. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) granted both S.O.’s self-petition and adjustment application, and S.O. is now a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

If you or someone you know is facing challenges in your immigration journey, the Law Office of Alexander R. Vail is here to help. Contact the Law Office of Alexander R. Vail at (725) 221-5998 or online, for a free consultation, and let us provide you with the guidance and expertise you need to navigate your immigration challenges with confidence and care.