Millions of people worldwide are affected by sex trafficking, a form of modern-day slavery. The National Human Trafficking Hotline reports that California has the highest number of reported cases in the United States. As a survivor of sex trafficking in California, you have access to legal resources that can help you seek justice.
Filing a claim and seeking justice as a sex trafficking survivor can be a daunting and overwhelming process. But we have created a step-by-step guide that can help you to accomplish this difficult process.
In this article, we are going to discuss:
- Sex Trafficking California Statistics
- Sex Trafficking and Its Legal Ramifications
- Steps to File a Claim and Seek Justice as a Sex Trafficking Survivor in California
Sex Trafficking California Statistics
Sex trafficking, a heinous form of exploitation and abuse, continues to be a pervasive issue in the state of California. Human trafficking victims are often coerced or forced into the sex trade, and face unimaginable suffering.
As a major hub for international trade, tourism, and a diverse population, California is particularly susceptible to sexual slavery and insidious crimes of sex trafficking due to its complex social and economic landscape.
Here are some pertinent California sex trafficking statistics:
- The number of reported trafficking cases in the US increased from 12,000 in 2015 to over 22,200 in 2019. However, it fell to 16,700 in 2021, according to hotline data spanning those years.
- The majority of reported human trafficking cases, approximately 90%, involve sex trafficking. This percentage has increased over time.
- The state of California is a major site for human trafficking. In 2018, there were 1,656 reported cases of this crime in California alone.
- In California, a significant number of people trafficked are US citizens. Nevertheless, the proportion of trafficked individuals who are foreign-born has increased considerably. Specifically, between 2015 and 2021, the share of trafficked people born outside the US in California rose from 36% to 54%.
Understanding Sex Trafficking and Its Legal Ramifications
Sex trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery where individuals are forced or coerced into commercial sex acts against their will. It is a violation of human rights and a serious crime under federal and state laws. In California, sex trafficking is considered a felony, and perpetrators can face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
As a survivor of sex trafficking, you have legal rights and protections under both federal and state laws. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) provides protection and assistance to victims of trafficking, including access to medical care, housing, and legal services. The California Trafficking Victims Protection Act (CTVPA) also provides additional protections and rights to victims of sex trafficking.
Steps to File a Claim and Seek Justice as a Sex Trafficking Survivor in California
Filing a claim and seeking justice as a sex trafficking survivor in California can be a complex process, but there are resources available to help you navigate the legal system. Here are the steps you need to take:
Step 1: Seek Help and Support
The first step in filing a claim and seeking justice as a sex trafficking survivor in California is to seek help and support. There are some organizations and resources available to help you, including:
- The National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
- The California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA)
- The California Department of Justice (DOJ)
- Legal Aid Society of Orange County
- The Women’s Right Group
These organizations can provide you with legal assistance, counseling, medical care, and other support services. A human rights attorney with experience in sex trafficking cases can help you navigate the complex process and provide the legal advice and support you need to get through this difficult time.
Step 2: Report the Crime
Reporting the crime is essential to holding the perpetrators accountable and seeking justice. With the help of your personal injury attorney, you can report the crime to the:
- Local police department or sheriff’s office
- FBI
- National Human Trafficking Hotline (it’s possible to file an anonymous report).
Step 3: File a Civil Lawsuit
Filing a civil lawsuit can help you recover damages and hold the traffickers accountable. Your sex trafficking attorney can help you file a civil lawsuit against the traffickers, individuals, or businesses that profited from the trafficking, and any other parties involved in the crime.
Step 4: Seek Compensation
As a survivor of sex trafficking in California, you may be eligible for compensation through the California Victim Compensation Board. The board provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes, including sex trafficking. With the proper legal help, you can get the maximum compensation for the terrible time and experiences you went through.
Step 5: Work with a Lawyer
As we already mentioned in previous steps, working with a lawyer who specializes in sex trafficking cases can help you navigate the legal system and seek justice. A lawyer can help you file a claim, negotiate a settlement, and represent you in court. It is crucial to seek the legal help of an experienced lawyer, a professional who can work adapting to your needs and respect your confidential requests.
FAQs on Filing a Claim as a Sex Trafficking Survivor
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to file a sex trafficking claim in California.
What if I don’t have legal immigration status in the United States?
Regardless of the immigration status of a sex trafficking victim, human trafficking survivors have legal rights and protections under federal and state laws as a survivor of sex trafficking. The TVPA provides protections for foreign nationals who are victims of trafficking, including access to legal services and temporary immigration relief.
Can I file a claim if the traffickers have been convicted?
Yes, you can still file a claim and seek compensation even if the traffickers have been convicted. Filing a civil lawsuit can help you recover damages and hold all parties involved accountable.
What if I am afraid of retaliation?
It is understandable to be afraid of retaliation from human traffickers or their associates. There are legal protections in place to help protect you, such as restraining orders and witness protection programs. You can also work with organizations and resources that can provide you with safety planning and protection.
Women’s Rights Group Can Help Sex Trafficking Victims
Remember, you have legal rights and protections under federal and state laws, regardless of your immigration status. Seeking justice can help you recover damages, hold the perpetrators accountable, and prevent others from falling victim to sex trafficking.
Filing a claim and seeking justice as a sex trafficking survivor in California can be a challenging and emotional process, but at the Women’s Rights Group, we provide resources and legal protections to help you. You have the right to be compensated for the harrowing experiences in which you were victimized.
If you are a survivor of sex trafficking in California, don’t hesitate to reach us. You are not alone, we are available 24/7 to attend your call. We speak English, Spanish, and Filipino.
