Mexican woman granted asylum based on domestic abuse claims; experts say case sets standard

Mexican woman granted asylum after domestic abuse

SAN FRANCISCO — A Mexican woman who says she endured beatings and rapes for decades at the hands of her common-law husband has won the right to stay in the United States. Experts say the case makes clear that domestic violence is valid grounds for asylum.

The Department of Homeland Security found that the victim, known only by the initials L.R., had shown the Mexican government was not willing to protect her.

An immigration judge found in her favor on Aug. 4, and the decision was announced by her attorneys this week.

Asylum claims based on domestic violence are controversial. Asylum has traditionally been given to individuals being persecuted by a government.

The woman’s attorney says this is the second asylum case granted on allegations of domestic violence.