Love, Money & the Law

Overseas Brides Who Marry US Citizens and Find Themselves in an Abusive Relationship

Episode Summary

Can you imagine leaving your homeland, family and friends because you married a United States citizen, only to later find yourself a victim of abuse when you arrive? The good news is that there's help. The bad news is that it's a fairy common story. Join me for a conversation with immigration attorney Kathryn N. Karem from Houston, Texas for a discussion about what recourse is available to victims and under what circumstances.

Episode Notes

Abuse is a unique issue and recourse is available to victims of domestic violence. Learn how the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) can protect you if you qualify, even if you're from another country.

Some of the issues in this episode include:

Does it matter whether you marry abroad, come to the U.S. on a fiancee Visa or by some other means, if you find yourself in an abusive relationship after you arrive in the U.S?
What about confidentiality with respect to your legal status?
What are your law enforcement options?
Is deportation a possibility if you report abuse?
What if you're being forced to have sex against your will with your husband, or, you're being forced by your husband to have sex with someone else?
What if you don't have money for attorney's fees?
How long does it take to get through the legal system if you qualify for protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)?
Can you work while your case is being processed?
What happens if one party files for divorce during the process or afterwards?
What happens if an abusive spouse dies after the victim has reported during separation or after divorce?

If this is you, someone you know or you work with an agency that can help, join me for a discussion with Houston, TX immigration attorney Kathryn N. Karem https://www.immisolver.com for an in-depth look into these questions and more.