I was suffering from severe abuse from my wife and i was applying for VAWA?
My question is that in my VAWA petition do I need to mention other than all the abused I suffered , that my wife has a 7 year old daughter from previous relationship she never mention about before my marriage to her , and even though the child never lived with us and was not involved in the abuse?
Will it cause any problem if i don't include her in my personal statement and USCIS later finds out?
You should mention that child's existence, for in VAWA cases in particular USCIS values complete honesty and transparency.
Omitting known facts can be seen as lack of credibility.
If discovered later, could undermine your entire case.
Shows you're being fully truthful about everything.
And note: in VAWA self-petitions (especially so for men, who have a higher burden I feel/know) your credibility is your strongest asset. Complete honesty, even about minor details, strengthens your position. The child's existence is a trivial detail compared to the abuse you suffered, but mentioning it briefly eliminates any risk while potentially supporting your narrative about your spouse's deceptive nature.
Focus your energy on documenting the abuse thoroughly rather than worrying about this minor detail. Include it briefly, then move on to what really matters - the incredible abuse you suffered and your need for protection.
If my answer is the "BEST ANSWER" and/or "HELPFUL" please mark it accordingly. Fluent in 7 languages. Board Certified Specialist in U.S. Immigration Law, The State Bar of California...
It may not affect you since it was not part of the abuse, but i do not see any harm in mnetioning it if tou think it can help your case. You may need to consult a lawyer privately for this. More so, if required in your form, you must provide all information required by USCIS.
My answers do not in anyway establish attorney client relationship.
