For survivors of sex trafficking, access to a lawyer can make the difference between imprisonment and freedom, maintaining and losing custody of their children, staying safe and living in fear. Annually serving almost 200 clients through direct legal representation – intakes and referrals from partners are by video and phone where possible; court dates await court reopenings – Amara helps survivors obtain legal protection from abusers, reunite with their children, seal unjust criminal records that would limit their opportunities for employment, education, and housing, and, during the pandemic, assist with unemployment benefits and appeals. Training for lawyers, social service organizations, and community members (virtual as long as necessary) expands the public’s ability to identify survivors and refer them for support. Meanwhile, Amara’s policy advocacy helps stop the unjust prosecution of victims, and its awareness campaigns help prevent trafficking ... before it starts.
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