Humanitarian relief
Some of the most important cases we handle are for people who cannot safely go home or who have been harmed here. These cases are fact-heavy and deadline-driven.
Some clients come to us because they cannot safely return home, or because they were harmed here. Our immigration lawyers in Franklin handle asylum, VAWA self-petitions, U visas for crime victims, T visas for trafficking survivors, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status for children, and humanitarian parole for people in Nashville, Middle Tennessee, and across the U.S., in confidence.
Asylum
Affirmative asylum with USCIS or defensive asylum in court. The one-year filing deadline has exceptions, but they must be argued properly.
VAWA self-petitions
Spouses, children, and parents abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident can petition on their own, without the abuser's knowledge or participation.
U and T visas
For victims of qualifying crimes who cooperated with law enforcement, and for survivors of trafficking. We obtain the law enforcement certification and build the record.
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)
For children under 21 who cannot reunify with one or both parents because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. A state juvenile court makes the required findings first, then we petition USCIS and pursue the green card.
Humanitarian parole
Parole lets someone enter or stay in the United States temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit. We prepare parole requests and explain what parole can and cannot lead to.
How a case works with us
- Private consultationWe listen to what happened and explain which protections may apply. What you share is kept confidential.
- Deadlines firstSome cases have strict deadlines, such as the one-year asylum filing deadline, so we confirm them at the start.
- Build the caseDeclarations, country conditions or police records, the law enforcement certification for U and T visas, and supporting evidence.
- File and follow throughWe file with USCIS or the immigration court and prepare you for any interview or hearing.
Common questions
Is there a deadline to apply for asylum?
Generally you must apply within one year of your last arrival in the U.S. There are exceptions for changed or extraordinary circumstances, but they must be proven, so do not wait.
Will my abuser find out if I file a VAWA petition?
Federal law protects the confidentiality of VAWA cases, and USCIS does not notify the abuser. We also plan with you how to receive mail and communicate safely.
What is a U visa?
A U visa is for victims of certain crimes in the U.S. who suffered substantial harm and helped, or are willing to help, law enforcement. The application needs a certification signed by a police agency, prosecutor, or judge. After three years in U status, many holders can apply for a green card.
Who qualifies for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status?
Children under 21 who are unmarried, in the U.S., and cannot reunify with one or both parents because of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or a similar reason under state law. A state juvenile court must make those findings first, and age limits matter, so start early.
General information, not legal advice for your case. Every situation is different; a consultation confirms what applies to you.
Forms and categories we handle here
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Your attorneyMichael SmallboneLicensed in Tennessee. Adjunct Professor of Immigration Law, Nashville School of LawReady to talk to an attorney?
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