A Wilson Sonsini pro bono team recently obtained permanent resident status for Rosa (not her real name), a Mexican woman who endured severe domestic violence when pregnant. Efforts were led by associate  and Pro Bono Staff Coordinator Rodolfo Munoz, with guidance from litigation Of Counsel and Pro Bono Counsel Luke Liss. The latest victory follows the firm’s efforts in 2015, when a separate pro bono team helped Rosa secure U-visa nonimmigrant status from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

As noted by Luke, who worked on both matters, “This is a particularly uplifting result for us given Maria’s remarkable courage, perseverance, and growth over the years we have had the opportunity to represent her and get to know her. This is a life-changing moment for her, and her story exemplifies why we do what we do.” Rosa, a single mother who works full-time to support her family, will eventually be eligible to apply for full United States citizenship after five years. Below she explains her reaction to the news in her own words:

“I want to express through these words, my gratitude to my lawyers Luke, Jessica, and Rodolfo Munoz and staff members for all their support, time, and dedication that they put in my case, thank you, a thousand times thank you for this achievement, without you I would not have succeeded.

“I feel very happy since this achievement means another life opportunity for me and my daughters, it is a triumph and a great pride since I am a single mother of two girls who are my engine. Being able to be a resident of this country, and later when I have the opportunity to become a U.S. citizen, this will open many doors for new beginnings, and I will be able to provide my daughters a better future. I want to express that I am very grateful and satisfied for this incredible work. Thank you for taking my case without knowing me. I hope that other people like me can continue counting on your incredible support. Thank you.”