Sex trafficking is a heinous crime that robs individuals of their dignity, freedom, and basic human rights. In California, Libra Law Firm is a firm advocate for sex trafficking victims. You can reach out to us for resources towards freedom, and for legal help in getting justice. Whether your situation involves exploitation, forced marriage, prostitution, or sexual violence, we are ready and well-equipped to fight for you.
Your consultation with Libra Law Firm is 100 percent free and confidential. Call us at (888) 565-3214 to speak with our competent and compassionate sex trafficking victims’ attorney.
The Dire Reality of Sex Trafficking
Sex trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that involves the exploitation of individuals for commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. It is a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that operates both domestically and internationally, preying on the most vulnerable members of society, including minors, immigrants, and those facing economic hardship.
The statistics are staggering:
- According to the US Department of State, there are an estimated 27.6 million victims of human trafficking worldwide as of 2023.
- In the US, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received over 51,000 reports of human trafficking in 2021, with California having the most reported cases among all 50 states.
- California had 5,257 sex trafficking reports in 2021, which is about 10 percent of all US reports to the hotline that year.
These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real people whose lives have been shattered by the horrors of sex trafficking. As Orange County sex trafficking lawyers at Libra Law, we’ve witnessed the physical, emotional, and psychological trauma endured by survivors. We commit our diligent work and resources to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
California Laws on Sex Trafficking
The US and California in particular have comprehensive laws in place to combat sex trafficking, particularly when it involves minors or the use of force, fraud, or coercion. These laws are designed to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable for their heinous actions.
Sex Trafficking of Children
US Code Title 18, section 1591 describes “sex trafficking of children” as participating in a venture where a person under 18 is caused to engage in a commercial sexual act. A similar definition can be found in California Penal Code Section 236.1
It is important to note that in cases involving minors, the law does not require proof of force, fraud, or coercion. The mere act of causing or attempting to cause a minor to engage in commercial sex acts constitutes sex trafficking. This is regardless of whether the minor initially consented or appeared to be a willing participant. This reflects California’s recognition that minors cannot legally consent to commercial sex acts and are inherently victims of exploitation.
Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, or Coercion
Federal law criminalizes the use of force, fear, duress, menace, or fraud to induce an individual to engage in commercial sex acts or forced labor services. Force, fraud, or coercion can take many forms, including:
- Physical violence or threats of violence
- Psychological coercion or manipulation
- Confiscation of identification documents
- Debt bondage or financial control
- Isolation from family, friends, or support systems.
The law recognizes that traffickers often employ various tactics to exploit and control their victims.
While the criminal justice system may punish traffickers through a criminal case, survivors of sex trafficking have the option of seeking compensation through a civil case. If you or a loved one has been sexually trafficked, call Libra Law Firm. Regardless of how the perpetrators exploited you, our reliable attorneys are ready to help.
Victim Assistance and Support
California recognizes the trauma and challenges faced by survivors of sex trafficking, and provides various legal protections and support services. These include:
- Confidentiality protections for victims
- Access to victim compensation funds
- Immigration assistance for non-citizen victims
- Counseling and mental health services
- Housing and relocation assistance.
Through these resources, California aims to support survivors in their recovery and reintegration into society, while also encouraging them to come forward and seek justice against their traffickers.
Legal Representation for Survivors Of Sex Trafficking
At Libra Law Firm, we understand that survivors of sex trafficking have unique legal needs that require a compassionate and trauma-informed approach. Our experienced attorneys provide legal representation to ensure that our clients’ rights are protected and that they receive the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Our legal services include:
- Civil litigation: Survivors of sex trafficking may be entitled to compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages they have suffered. We pursue civil lawsuits against traffickers, facilitators, and those who knowingly benefited from the exploitation of our clients.
- Immigration assistance: Many survivors of sex trafficking are immigrants who may face additional legal challenges, including immigration status issues. We provide immigration assistance to help our clients obtain the necessary legal protections and support services.
- Victim advocacy: Our victim advocates work closely with our clients to ensure that they have access to essential resources such as counseling, medical care, and safe housing. We understand that the road to recovery is long and challenging, and we provide ongoing support throughout the legal process and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Orange County Sex Trafficking Cases
What is sex trafficking, and how is it different from human trafficking?
Sex trafficking is a specific form of human trafficking that involves the exploitation of individuals for commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. While all sex trafficking is considered human trafficking, not all human trafficking involves sex acts. Human trafficking can also include forced labor, domestic servitude, and other forms of exploitation.
Who are the typical victims of sex trafficking?
While anyone can become a victim of sex trafficking, certain populations are particularly vulnerable, including minors, immigrants, individuals in economic hardship, and those with a history of abuse or trauma. Traffickers often target individuals who are isolated, lack support systems, or have limited access to resources.
What are the signs that someone may be a victim of sex trafficking?
Some common signs that someone may be a victim of sex trafficking are:
- Appearing malnourished or showing signs of physical abuse
- Lacking personal possessions or identification documents
- Exhibiting fear, anxiety, or submissive behavior
- Being closely monitored or accompanied by someone who appears controlling
- Living and working in the same location
- Having limited freedom of movement or communication.
Can I pursue legal action against my traffickers even if I was involved in illegal activities?
Yes, survivors of sex trafficking can pursue legal action against their traffickers, even if they were involved in illegal activities as a result of their exploitation. Under federal and state laws, victims of sex trafficking are considered victims of a crime and are entitled to legal protections and support services.
How can an Orange County sex trafficking Lawyer help me?
An Orange County sex trafficking lawyer can provide comprehensive legal representation to survivors of sex trafficking, including:
- Filing civil lawsuits to seek compensation for damages
- Assisting with immigration issues and obtaining legal protections
- Connecting clients with essential support services like counseling, medical care, and safe housing
- Advocating for clients’ rights and ensuring their voices are heard throughout the legal process.
What should I do if I suspect someone is a victim of sex trafficking?
If you suspect someone is a victim of sex trafficking, it is important to report your concerns to the appropriate authorities. You can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (call) or 233733 (text). You may also contact your local law enforcement agency. Provide as much information as possible, but do not attempt to intervene directly as this could put the victim or yourself at risk.
How can I help combat sex trafficking in the Orange County community?
There are several ways you can help combat sex trafficking in your community:
- Educate yourself and others about the signs of sex trafficking and how to report suspected cases.
- Support organizations and initiatives that provide resources and services to survivors of sex trafficking.
- Advocate for stronger laws and policies to protect victims and hold traffickers accountable.
- Be mindful of your consumption habits and support businesses that prioritize ethical labor practices.
How much does it cost to hire an Orange County sex trafficking lawyer?
At Libra Law Firm, we offer free initial consultations and don’t charge our clients anything out-of-pocket. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only collect legal fees if we successfully recover compensation for our clients.
Will my case be kept confidential?
When you approach Libra Law Firm, your case and identity will be kept anonymous. Our law office takes every precaution to protect our clients’ privacy and ensure that their personal information is kept secure throughout the legal process.
How long does a sex trafficking case typically take?
The duration of a sex trafficking case can vary depending on the specific circumstances and complexities involved. Criminal cases may take several months or even years to resolve, while civil lawsuits can also be lengthy processes. Our team at Libra Law Firm will keep you informed every step of the way and work diligently to ensure your case is resolved as efficiently as possible.
Contact Libra Law Firm for Compassionate Legal Representation
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sex trafficking, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance from an experienced and compassionate Orange County sex trafficking Lawyer. At Libra Law Firm, our attorneys and advocates will work tirelessly to get the compensation you deserve, and ensure that you receive the support you need to rebuild your life. Contact Libra Law Firm today at (888) 565-3214 for a free and confidential consultation.
