CAT Relief Approved: A Life Saved from Persecution

Our client won protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT)—a decision that literally saves a life. Unlike asylum, CAT does not require a protected ground (race, religion, nationality, political opinion, social group). Additionally, there is no one-year filing deadline. It focuses on risk and government involvement.

How we proved it

We built a detailed mosaic: sworn declarations, medical/psychological evaluations, police complaints, expert affidavits, and country-conditions reports. These documents showed patterns of state-linked torture, prison abuse, and the inability or unwillingness of officials to protect victims. We linked our client’s unique profile to those documented patterns. Moreover, we addressed internal relocation, prior harm, and the government’s acquiescence through ignored complaints and credible witness accounts.

What CAT grants (and what it doesn’t)

CAT protection can be withholding of removal or deferral of removal (for some with serious criminal bars). Both block deportation to the danger country and authorize the government to release under supervision. Recipients may obtain work authorization and renew it while CAT remains in place. They can also seek reopening if conditions improve or family eligibility arises. CAT is not a path to a green card or citizenship. It generally does not permit travel abroad; leaving the U.S. can jeopardize protection.

Next steps for the client

• Maintain reporting requirements and keep EAD current.
• Continue therapy and medical care; preserve treatment records for future reviews.
• Avoid arrests and comply with any supervision terms.
• Notify counsel of address changes and any new threats to support ongoing protection.

Why this matters
CAT relief preserves life where asylum law’s categories fall short. It recognizes the reality that torture is intolerable—no matter the persecutor’s motive. This ensures our client can live and heal in safety.