1. Presented by Kaitlin Kalna Darwal Senior Immigration Attorney
Working with Survivors of Trauma
U Visa Training
Presented by Kaitlin Kalna Darwal
Senior Immigration Attorney

2. Interviewing a survivor of trauma requires time, humility, and sensitivity

3. Common Obstacles Confronting Individuals Applying for U-Visa
Isolation and Vulnerability
Feelings of Shame
Economic, Legal, Housing Insecurity
Language Barrier
Separation from Family
Lack of Formal education
Cultural Differences
Unfamiliarity with Law and/or Legal System
Fear of Deportation
Experiencing Pyschological Trauma
Fear of Authority Figures

4. Specific Considerations When Working With Survivors of Domestic Violence
Client may still be in danger or in an abusive relationship
Client may have seriously restricted ability to travel and/or communicate
Client may change residences frequently or may be living in transitional housing
Client may feel judged

5. What to Expect When Interviewing Survivors of Trauma
Inconsistent narrative
Forgetting important details
Extreme or very little emotion
Reluctance to discuss

6. Guidelines for Interviewing Survivors of Trauma
Establish an appropriate attorney-client culture
Prep for the interview
The interview
Next Steps

7. Interview Guidelines: Using an Interpreter
Direct your communication to client
Allow time for interpretation
Respect the interpreter

8. Any Questions?