Department of Legal Services

At SEPA Mujer, we provide free, confidential legal services to immigrant women and families across Long Island. Our legal team focuses on supporting victims and survivors of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking.
We also offer legal assistance to low-income immigrant families who may not be victims of violence but need help with issues such as immigration, family law, and access to legal resources.

What We Do

Free & Low-Cost Representation

Our bilingual legal team helps immigrant survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, and other crimes navigate complex immigration processes—without the crushing weight of high legal fees.

Paths to Protection & Healing

We file petitions under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), U Visas, T Visas, Gender-Based Asylum, and other humanitarian relief so you can live and work without fear.

Trauma-Informed Advocacy

We listen to your story in a safe, judgment-free space and craft a legal strategy centered on your voice and your goals.

Referrals & Wrap-Around Support

When you need counseling, shelter, or community resources, we connect you to trusted partners across Long Island.

Legal Remedies

Relief Who Qualifies Why It Matters
VAWA Self-Petition Spouses, children (<21), or parents of abusive U.S. citizens or permanent residents Apply for status independently of your abuser and gain work authorization.
U Visa Victims of certain crimes who cooperated with law enforcement Secures lawful status and a path to a green card.
T Visa Survivors of sex or labor trafficking Protects survivors and offers a route to permanent residency.
Gender-Based Asylum Those persecuted for gender, sexual orientation, or domestic violence Grants protection, work authorization, and family reunification.

Unsure which avenue fits your situation? Call us at 631-980-2555 for a confidential consultation.

Types of immigration services we offer include:

Initial legal intake screening

A brief intake with an individual for the purpose of assessing their legal needs and/or law-related supports (relief applications, health insurance, benefits, etc.); does not need to be provided by a legal service provider.

Work permit renewals (Form I-765)

We assist with initial applications and renewals to ensure continued legal employment, and also help with fee waiver requests for those who qualify.

Legal consultations

An in-depth screening with an individual (by an attorney, or by an accredited representative or experienced paralegal under attorney supervision) meant to ascertain their eligibility for immigration relief (asylum, EAD, TPS, SIJS, change of venue, change of address, U- or T-status, VAWA, among others).

SIJS family court petition

Filing of a guardianship or custody petition; each motion and each appearance are counted as separate legal services.

Naturalization

We assist with the process of becoming a U.S. citizen, which includes assessing eligibility, preparing the application (Form N-400), and preparing for the interview and tests.

Other services

Schedule your appointment here: 631-980-2555

Address Updates

Changing a client’s address within EOIR system and/or with USCIS; a simple form that does not require follow-up

Change of address (additional follow-up required): following up on a change of address to make sure it went through by assisting the person to ask USCIS and EOIR by phone, in-person at the court, email, or by mail.

Change of venue: motion to change a client’s court venue and/or motion for telephonic/video appearance.

Survivor Voices

“SEPA Mujer turned fear into strength. After eight years of domestic violence, their team helped me file a U Visa. Today my children and I sleep peacefully.”
— Seleni
“I thought no one would believe me. SEPA Mujer listened, explained my rights, and guided me through VAWA. Now I’m rebuilding my life.”
— Noemi

Do you need help or feel unsafe?

We’re here for you. SEPA Mujer offers confidential support, legal resources, and a safe space, in your language and on your terms. You are not alone.

Get Help Now

Support our mission

When you donate, you help protect immigrant women from violence and injustice. Your gift expands access to legal services, education, and leadership opportunities across Long Island.
Donate to SEPA Mujer