The Client was an immigrant looking to remove himself from an abusive relationship. His husband, a U.S. citizen subjected him to sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, even withholding medication critical for his chronic medical condition. Despite his difficult situation, the Client found the strength to leave and start anew. During this time, he sought help from many local social service agencies to secure essentials like food, shelter, and medication. It was then that a partner agency connected the Client with NSLAC.
The Client recounted his traumatic experiences, including periods of homelessness, with NSLAC. Despite the incredible obstacles he faced, NSLAC attorneys were struck by his resilience and kind disposition. NSLAC’s immigration attorney planned to pursue a VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) case to pave the way for the Client's path to citizenship. However, the case posed significant challenges, as the abuser had intentionally excluded the Client from nearly all legal documents to maintain control. Proving a bona fide marriage, a critical requirement, demanded extensive investigative work from the Client. Undeterred, the Client resourcefully gathered social media content and statements from friends to strengthen his case.
In the winter of 2023, more than two years after the case was filed, the Client’s VAWA claim was approved, and he received his green card. Now legally divorced, the Client is working full-time as a cook, a passion from his home country. Motivated to help others, he moved out of transitional housing early to create space for another neighbor in need. After receiving his green card approval letter, the Client expressed his gratitude to NSLAC staff with a heartfelt note:
“I truly appreciated your invaluable hand. I will never forget it. Though a small gesture, my gift is a token of gratitude, hoping it brings you a moment of relaxation from your hard work”.
