Immigrants and Domestic Violence

Immigrants who marry a U.S. citizen and are new to the United States face many obstacles, including adapting to a new country, language, and culture. Sadly, some immigrant women who marry in the United States may be abused by their husbands, putting themselves and their children in danger. An immigrant who is not familiar with U.S. law may feel that reporting domestic violence at home will result in deportation or further abuse. However, as an immigrant you have certain rights in the U.S. that can help you escape abuse at home.

Knowing Your Rights and Options

Even as an immigrant, there are many actions that you can take and services that you may receive without revealing your immigration status. If you are a victim of domestic violence, consider the rights and options you have under U.S. law:

• You may seek shelter at a battered women’s shelter without revealing whether or not you are a legal resident.
• You can go to the police and file a restraining order against your spouse. You do not have to have proof of residency or citizenship to obtain a restraining order.
• If you or your children have been victims of a crime, report it to the police immediately. You do not have to reveal any information about your residency status to do so.
• If you or your children have been injured, you may receive emergency medical treatment even if you are not a legal resident.

How a Lawyer Can Help

If you are a married immigrant and a victim of domestic violence, you may feel that your situation is hopeless. On the contrary, there are several legal options available to you. A domestic violence lawyer can help to clarify what options are available to you and advise you on what would be the best course of action to take. It is important to remember that your abusive spouse does not control your fate and that you may be able to acquire residency status without his assistance.

Contact Us

Don’t let your and your children’s safety and health be compromised by domestic violence. To learn more about your legal options, please contact experienced the Austin domestic violence lawyers of Slater, Kennon & Pugh Ltd.LLP today at 512-472-2431.