Trafficking in persons is modern-day slavery of victims forced, defrauded or coerced into labor or sexual exploitation. According to U.S. government statistics, about 600,000 to 800,000 people annually -mostly women and children-are trafficked across national borders which, does not count millions trafficked within their own countries.
Trafficking victims are ensnared by many means, including physical force, coercion, and false promises regarding job opportunities or marriages in foreign countries. Victims often suffer physical and emotional abuse, rape, threats against self and family, passport theft, and even death.
In addition to criminal sanctions, California allows victims of human trafficking to bring civil actions for actual damages, compensatory damages, injunctive relief, any combination of those, or any other appropriate relief, including attorney fees and costs. Additionally, victims may be awarded up to three times actual damages or ten thousand dollars ($10,000), whichever is greater and punitive damages.
Kerr & Sheldon provides legal representation to victims of human trafficking on a contingency fee basis for physical and emotional abuse occurring in California or against Americans who sexually prey on children abroad. To find out how to put our team to work for you, call 714-531-5900 or email us.
Learn more about the U.S. Government's efforts to combat trafficking.
Learn more about the efforts of non-profit organizations to combat trafficking.
