Surviving Abuse: Zhara’s Path to Protection

Zhara came to the United States from the Middle East, fleeing an unwanted arranged marriage and searching for safety. In Houston, she met an older man who offered her a job, shelter, and eventually marriage, one that quickly turned into a relationship marked by control and abuse. With no resources and nowhere else to turn, Zhara stayed.

When she finally found the courage to leave, she came to JFAI and met attorney Gabriela Lopez-Compean, who immediately stepped in to help. Soon after, Gabriela discovered that Zhara was in removal proceedings, a devastating surprise she did not know about.

JFAI quickly filed a Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) application to protect her, helped close her removal case, and once her petition was approved, applied for permanent residency.

After four long years of paperwork, hearings, and legal uncertainty, Zhara’s green card was approved. She is now safe. She can work legally, travel, and build the life she deserves, free from fear.

*Photo changed for privacy reasons.