National Human Trafficking Lawyers

What Is Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking is one of the largest illicit industries in the world, and an estimated 30 million people are victimized each year.

According to the United States Criminal Code, human trafficking occurs when one person uses deception, fraud, abduction, or other coercion to force another person into labor, which often takes the form of prostitution, agricultural work, or other forced servitude. Human trafficking may also refer to any instance in which persons are transported, recruited, received, or otherwise exploited for such purposes. Anyone can become a victim of human trafficking, though women, children, and low-income individuals tend to be the most vulnerable.

Sex Trafficking Lawyer

The most common type of human trafficking is sexual. Sexual exploitation makes up an estimated 79% of human trafficking cases. Many people are enticed into sex trafficking with false promises of fun or fulfilling jobs in good areas. Sometimes, a person who you thought you knew or trusted promised you a close romantic or familial relationship. As soon as victims realize these promises won't come true, they are threatened or guilted into staying, and cannot leave. Many times, the victim will form a romantic attachment with their captor, often called a "trauma bond".

Our sex trafficking attorneys can still help you when you feel guilt, as though you are making a choice to stay, or if you still feel love or pity for the person who has used you. If at any point you felt it wasn't safe to leave, that something would happen to you or your family, or perhaps your captor guilted you with the threat of self injury--It was not a choice. And you deserve help.

What to Do if You Have Been a Victim of Human Trafficking

If you have been exploited by a trafficker, you may be able to bring a civil lawsuit against them in order to remedy your pain, suffering, and other damages. You may also be able to take action against any parties who were complicit in your being trafficked, including hotel staff, so-called “johns,” websites that facilitated trafficking, and any other group, person, or entity involved in the process.

In addition to helping you file civil lawsuits against offending parties, we may be able to counsel you and help you access essential resources while you get back on your feet. If you are in immediate danger, we may also be able to help refer you to law enforcement and take necessary precautions to keep yourself safe.

Seek Help Now from the National Human Trafficking Resource Center

Human traffickers rely on lies and violence to prevent their victims from getting help. If you’re a victim of human trafficking, or if you know somebody who could be trafficked, one of the best resources is the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) hotline. The NHTRC hotline is available 24/7, and it is completely anonymous and confidential to protect those who provide information and ask for assistance. This incredible organization has helped thousands of victims of sex and labor trafficking, and they can help you find safety and shelter too.

Here are some questions that can help you identify if you’re a victim of human trafficking, or if somebody else is being exploited:

Have you been physically or sexually abused?
Are you afraid to leave your abusers? Do you feel trapped against your will?
Has someone forced you to perform sex acts for money, goods, or services?
Are you younger than 18 and being pressured into selling sex?
Do you owe a large debt that is impossible to pay off?
Is someone using your debts to coerce you into selling sex?
When you earn money, does someone take portions of your earnings?
Have you been tricked into performing sex acts after being told you would do something different?
Does someone else currently possess your passport or ID card?
Are there explicit or sexual photos of you being posted online, without your consent?
Have you been forced to create pornographic videos?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” contact the confidential NHTRC hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or visit their website for more information.

We Serve Survivors of Human Trafficking Nationwide

At Johnson Law Group, we represent human trafficking survivors. If you are interested in bringing a civil lawsuit against the person or parties who participated in your trafficking and exploitation, we may be able to help you achieve justice and find a fair resolution to your case. Allow us to be your advocates during this time and protect your rights throughout the process.

Call (844) 464-0062 today to speak to one of our national human trafficking attorneys or schedule your free consultation with a member of our team.