About Law Office of E.M. Wafula, PLLC — immigration law Memphis, Tennessee
The Law Office of E.M. Wafula, PLLC brings specialized immigration law representation to Memphis and clients across all 50 states. Attorney Elizabeth M. Wafula, a Juris Doctor graduate of Salmon P. Chase College of Law with an International Law Certificate from Penn State Dickinson, has built her practice around the most complex humanitarian immigration cases. She is recognized nationally for VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) filings, adjustment of status through marriage, T-visas for trafficking survivors, and removal-of-conditions matters. Her clients have overcome deportation orders and obtained 10-year green cards through cases others deemed unwinnable.
Tennessee is home to approximately 473,000 immigrants, representing 6.5% of the state population — and demand for experienced immigration counsel in Memphis continues to grow. Attorney Wafula’s practice is built on overcommunication, efficiency, and compassionate service. She personally guides clients through each filing deadline, USCIS request, and biometric appointment. Multilingual in French and English, she serves immigrant communities from diverse backgrounds across the Mid-South region.
What Clients Say
Clients describe Attorney Wafula as a life-changing presence during some of their darkest moments. Many highlight the life-altering impact of receiving their green cards after years of uncertainty, crediting her team’s precision filing, proactive communication, and genuine care for every outcome. Reviewers consistently note that the office kept them informed through every step — especially in complex VAWA cases that other attorneys declined to take.
immigration law Memphis — Practice Areas & Services
- VAWA Petitions: Attorney Wafula is recognized as a leader in VAWA cases for both men and women, securing green cards for clients who survived abuse — even without police reports.
- Adjustment of Status Through Marriage: The firm handles marriage-based green card applications and removal-of-conditions cases with meticulous documentation to minimize interview requirements.
- T-Visas for Trafficking Survivors: The firm represents survivors of human trafficking seeking lawful immigration status and access to federal benefits.
- Removal Defense: Attorney Wafula has successfully moved clients from active deportation proceedings to permanent resident status through strategic humanitarian filings.
- Family-Based Immigration: The firm assists families in Memphis and nationwide with petitions for spouses, children, and other qualifying relatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a man file a VAWA petition in Tennessee?
Yes. VAWA protections extend to male victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child. Attorney Wafula has a strong track record of approvals for male VAWA petitioners, including cases where previous attorneys said the process only applied to women.
How long does a marriage-based green card take in Memphis?
Processing times vary based on the petitioner’s citizenship and whether an interview is required. Strong documentation packages submitted by an experienced attorney can sometimes eliminate the interview requirement entirely, as several of the firm’s clients have experienced.
What is the difference between VAWA and a spousal visa?
A VAWA self-petition allows abuse survivors to apply for a green card independently, without the abuser’s knowledge or cooperation. A standard spousal visa requires the U.S. citizen or LPR to file on the applicant’s behalf. VAWA is designed specifically to protect victims from further harm during the immigration process.
Quick Facts: Immigration Law in Memphis, Tennessee
- Tennessee Immigrant Population: Approximately 473,000 immigrants live in Tennessee — 6.5% of the state’s total population as of 2024 — USAFacts
- USCIS FY2023 Filings: USCIS received 759,000 I-485 adjustment of status applications in FY2023, 23% more than the prior year — USCIS Annual Statistical Report
- Green Card Approval Rate: Employment-based green card applications carried a 91% approval rate nationally in FY2023 — USCIS
Related Guide: Immigration Lawyers Raleigh, NC — ReachAttorneys

