At our office, we are increasingly alarmed by a troubling trend: some unscrupulous lawyers are filing fraudulent applications under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) on behalf of unsuspecting clients. These lawyers promise “magic” solutions—work permits and lawful status “sin salir” (without leaving the country)—but they are doing so by fabricating stories of abuse without the clients’ knowledge or consent.

Under VAWA, a person may be eligible for lawful status if they were battered or subjected to extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, or by their adult U.S. citizen or resident child. This is an important and powerful protection for survivors of domestic violence—but it must be based in truth.

Unfortunately, we have now worked with multiple clients who were shocked to discover that their VAWA applications included declarations they never made, describing abuse that never occurred. In some cases, the clients’ signatures were forged. These applications were prepared and submitted by unethical attorneys, and often the clients had no idea what had been filed in their names.

This type of fraud has serious consequences:

  • Clients often pay thousands of dollars for these services.

  • USCIS may charge the clients themselves with fraud or misrepresentation.

  • Some are being placed into removal proceedings (deportation).

  • USCIS is now conducting more rigorous interviews and investigations due to the known pattern of abuse by some law firms.

To be clear: Not all VAWA applications are fraudulent. For those who have genuinely experienced abuse or cruelty by a qualifying relative, VAWA remains a vital path to protection and lawful status. If this applies to you, please know that you still have safe and lawful options to pursue.

However, if you are concerned that you or someone you know may have been the victim of fraud by a former lawyer—especially if you were promised status “sin salir” but don’t clearly understand what was filed—please contact our office. We can help you:

  • Obtain and review your immigration file

  • Determine whether fraudulent information was submitted

  • Withdraw or correct the application if needed

  • In some cases, file a lawsuit to recover funds or seek damages

This is a disturbing and deeply upsetting situation, and we are saddened to see members of our profession preying on vulnerable individuals. If you’re worried, don’t wait. Protect yourself and your future by getting informed and taking action.

Call us to schedule a confidential consultation. We are here to help.