BBA- Justice for Trafficking Victims: Civil Litigation, Vacatur, Criminal Restitution and the Pro Bono Bar

In the United States, trafficking survivors rarely have access to justice. In 2013, federal prosecutors brought just 161 criminal cases against traffickers in the entire country. Trafficked persons have significant rights under U.S. law, but they cannot exercise these rights without competent legal counsel. Pro bono attorneys can change the game, allowing trafficking survivors to participate fully in criminal cases against traffickers, and in launching civil suits against the perpetrators. The Human Trafficking Pro Bono Legal Center serves as a clearinghouse for survivors and law firms, bringing trafficking survivors together with highly-competent, well-trained pro bono attorneys. Martina Vandenberg, President and Founder of the Center and a former law firm partner with two decades of experience in the anti-trafficking field will lead a training on using federal law to obtain justice for trafficking survivors. The training will cover crime victims' rights in federal criminal matters, criminal restitution orders for victims, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, and civil litigation against traffickers in federal courts. This training draws on Ms. Vandenberg's experience representing dozens of trafficking survivors in criminal, civil, and immigration cases. Participants will gain insight into all remedies available to trafficking survivors in the United States, including many legal rights overlooked for nearly a decade. Sponsoring Section/Committee(s): DLS Human Trafficking Committee Speakers: Martina Vandenberg The Human Trafficking Pro Bono Legal Center Julie Dahlstrom Casa Myrna Vazquez