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K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. K. Dean Kantaras, P.A.
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VAWA Expert Legal Guidance You Can Trust

Tampa VAWA Lawyers

Representing Battered Men, Women & Children in Tampa Bay & across Florida

As a battered spouse, child, or parent, you may file an immigrant visa petition under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), as amended by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The VAWA provisions in the INA allow certain spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and certain spouses and children of permanent residents (green card holders) to file a petition for themselves—without the abuser's knowledge. This allows victims to seek both safety and independence from their abuser, who is not notified about the filing. The VAWA provisions, which apply equally to women and men, are permanent and do not require congressional reauthorization.

To learn more, contact the Tampa Bay VAWA lawyers at K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. at (727) 939-6113. 

Who Is Eligible?

U.S. immigration law clearly defines who is eligible to self-petition for lawful permanent residency (a green card) under the VAWA.

You may be eligible if you are the victim of violence and/or extreme cruelty at the hands of:

  • A spouse or ex-spouse who is a U.S. citizen
  • A parent who is a U.S. citizen
  • A child who is a U.S. citizen
  • A spouse or ex-spouse who is a lawful permanent resident
  • A parent who is a lawful permanent resident

To apply, you will need to file a completed Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow/Widower, or Special Immigrant. Your spouse, parent, or child will not be informed and does not need to know that you have filed this form.

Let Our Firm Fight for You

The Tampa Bay immigration attorneys at K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. understand the pressing and sensitive nature of these situations. We work quickly to assist victims of abuse, violence, and cruelty in order to help ensure their safety and safeguard their futures. Our legal team is prepared to assist you at every stage of the process, providing the personalized and compassionate legal guidance you need and deserve.

Contact us online or call (727) 939-6113 to speak to an attorney at our firm today. 

Why Choose K. Dean Kantaras, P.A.?

  • Several Decades of Experience on Your Side
  • Top Rating for Ethics & Skill of AV Preeminent®
  • Board Certified Specialist in Family Law
  • Selection for Florida Super Lawyers® - Top 5%

Hear From Our Happy Clients

At K. Dean Kantaras, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Superior to his opposing counsel"
    Dean was so far superior to his opposing counsel that it was apparent that he was the superior legal mind.
    - D.
    "Great service"
    The firm of KDK is very outstanding. Dean is an exemplary attorney. I am impressed with his knowledge, intelligence, honesty and sincerity.
    - Errol Morrison
    "My sincere thanks"
    My sincere thanks for Dean, Doukissa, Karen, Azhar, Iris and all other legal team members for the professional case work completed and personal compassion demonstrated on my behalf.
    - R.R.
    "Immigration lawyer Brittany Mohamed is very personable, helpful, and knowledgeable!"
    Immigration lawyer Brittany Mohamed is very personable, helpful, and knowledgeable! We had our case approved with her help.
    - Vanessa
    "Patience is a virtue."
    Good afternoon, I want to say that the staff at Dean’s office have been exceptional. I worked closely with Iris, Nicole, Patrice, Danielle, and Joe. They all helped me through the process. Dean is a very intelligent attorney and finally got the Judge to see it our way, because of the law and a lot of hard work. Thank you all for your effort.
    - John Judge
    "Dean and his team have been a blessing in this difficult process."
    Dean and his team have been a blessing in this difficult process. although I'm not to the end just yet, I have faith he and the whole team will help me get across the finish line. I would highly recommend him. Worth every penny!
    - Joyle W.
    "This firm is great."
    I can't thank the team here enough.
    - Lina Z.
    "They definitely help make things a little easier in a very difficult time."
    Excellent law firm. From the admin personnel, to the paralegals, and all the attorneys. They work together as a team to fight for you. Would highly recommend them to anyone going through family court especially if it is contested. They definitely help make things a little easier in a very difficult time.
    - Isaac G.