Florida Attorneys Assisting Those Who Have Been Subjected to Human Trafficking

The idea of someone being taken against their will for sexual purposes is truly horrifying. Quite often, those who commit such crimes are part of larger criminal syndicates. Surprisingly, such offenses are also committed by high-net-worth individuals. Examples of this include Jeffrey Epstein and multiple former NFL players. The criminal justice system is dedicated to ensuring that such individuals receive a just punishment. The civil justice system, by contrast, is dedicated to ensuring that victims receive compensation. Our Florida human trafficking attorneys are dedicated to protecting victims’ rights in such situations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Individuals Who Engage In Sex Trafficking Can Be Liable For Damages to Their Victims

High-net-worth individuals who engage in sex trafficking can be ordered to pay damages to their victim in a civil suit. In addition to the various torts involved in such a matter, a victim may also bring a claim under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA). The amount awarded will include the cost of medical expenses, financial losses, as well as compensation for the emotional distress and physical pain inflicted upon the victim. Furthermore, given the nature of such cases, punitive damages may well be awarded. Any award granted to a victim will be non-dischargeable in bankruptcy since they flow from intentional conduct by the defendant(s).

In addition to the individuals in charge of such operations, those who assist them in facilitating human trafficking may also be held liable. Such individuals or businesses sometimes include:

• Hotels and motels
• Producers in the adult entertainment industry
• Individuals in the agriculture industry who prey on immigrants
• Individuals in the caregiving industry or in childcare facilities
• The owners of massage parlors
• Etc.

Identifying the various entities to name in a lawsuit can become complicated. Retaining an experienced attorney can help to ensure that your case is handled correctly.

Establishing Liability In Sex Trafficking Cases Through Criminal Convictions

If an individual is convicted of sex trafficking, then the conviction may be entered as evidence in the civil proceedings. Given that criminal convictions require a higher standard of proof than a civil judgment, entering a conviction may well be enough to establish a defendant’s liability altogether. Given the potential impact of the criminal proceedings on your case, it will be important for your lawyer to closely monitor the corresponding criminal case. This will include obtaining copies of any evidence the prosecution uses and more.

Our Florida Human Trafficking Attorneys Assist Victims and Families Who Have Suffered Due to Sex Trafficking

If you or a member of your family have been the victim of sex trafficking, we would be happy to speak with you to see how we can help. While some lawyers devote their practice to protecting the rights of accused individuals, we believe in protecting victims’ rights. Our Florida human trafficking attorneys understand that you need to get your life back on track and we are ready to assist you. Contact us online, by email at lewisteam@searcylaw.com, or by telephone at 870-780-8607. Call today for an initial consultation.