A Schaefer Law Firm client recently found out that her affirmative asylum application was approved. The case involved two main claims for asylum:

(1) She was a victim of female genital mutilation (FGM) (also referred to as female circumcision or female genital cutting). She continues to suffer medical complications directly related to her female circumcision victimization. The emotional pain that she suffers as a result of her female circumcision was increased by the fact that if she could not lawfully remain in the United States she would have to take her United States citizen daughters with her to her home country where they would also be forcibly subjected to FGM.

(2) She was the victim of severe domestic violence and could not leave the relationship if she remained in her home country. This domestic violence included both physical as well as emotional abuse.

The Schaefer Law Firm helped her prepare her asylum application and collect the evidence needed to prove her asylum claims. This included researching and drafting a written closing argument that was presented during her asylum interview. Now that she has been granted asylum, she will be able to stay in the United States with her daughters and will eventually be able to become a United States citizen.

Although this her asylum application was approved, it is important to note that not all asylum applications based on FGM or domestic violence are approved. Asylum cases are very fact specific and the best way to present each case will vary depending on the facts of the case. With this in mind, I strongly encourage you to consult with an immigration lawyer before you submit an asylum application.