Survivors of Human Trafficking Legal Program

Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida’s proposed Survivors of Human Trafficking Program will provide holistic, trauma-informed legal services to survivors of human trafficking. The goal of the proposed program is to help survivors achieve increased safety, independence, self-sufficiency, and well-being in their lives through meaningful and comprehensive access to the legal system through a Program Attorney. From full representation to pro se assistance, the level and scope of services will be dependent on each survivor’s specific needs. Services will encompass an array of legal issues from civil and family cases to representation to assert and enforce victims’ rights in criminal cases. Representation will be survivor-focused, ensuring the survivor is involved and informed throughout the process. The program will respect survivor autonomy and ensure the legal process reflects the survivors’ goals and wishes. The program’s geographic parameters will include all cities in Broward County, Florida within Congressional Districts 20, 22, 23, and 24. Program staff will assist survivors who reside in the county or whose legal case is being litigated in the county. The benefits of legal representation will be available to survivors of all forms of trafficking (sex, labor, and domestic servitude) and regardless of citizenship status or financial eligibility. The program will also provide a trauma-informed attorney and paralegal who will ensure survivors of human trafficking have access to the legal system.