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by The Stoddard Firm - July 28th, 2021
As part of the “Operation Not Forgotten” series of sex trafficking investigations now in progress, no fewer than 20 missing minors, ranging in age from 17 years down to just six weeks, were located across Georgia this past May. Most were found in Cobb, Gwinnett, Fulton and DeKalb counties. Currently, authorities suspect that sex trafficking played a role in 16 of the 20 missing minor cases.
The search was a collaborative effort between the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service’s Missing Child Unit, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), among other agencies.
Although no human trafficking charges have been publicly announced in connection with these cases yet, one suspect has been charged with first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor, and investigators have predicted more criminal prosecutions yet to come. Previous Operation Not Forgotten busts have indeed resulted in multiple arrests and sex trafficking indictments.
Hopefully, continued investigations will identify more of the guilty parties and prevent them from doing more harm in the future. In the meantime, however, there’s no need for the survivors to wait any longer before pursuing legal action in civil court.
Finding the missing minors and beginning criminal proceedings against their traffickers is only the beginning of addressing the staggering injustice that’s taken place here. These missing person cases were given particular attention because the minors were classified as “endangered” due to a range of personal factors. They were and still are at elevated risk of exploitation, and many likely have limited social support systems. Even in the most supportive environment imaginable, healing from the trauma of sex trafficking is still a long and costly process.
Prosecuting the most obvious perpetrators of sex trafficking is important work, but it won’t do much to improve the circumstances of this group of minors. That’s where civil suits can do a great deal of good.
Anyone who could be convicted of sex trafficking can also be sued for it and forced to compensate the victims. This includes not just the people who committed direct violence against the victims, but also anyone who knowingly profited off their sexual exploitation. For example, hotels chains, apartment management companies, salons, and even social media platforms that knowingly provided services to enable sex trafficking could be held liable for the harm done to these minors. These kinds of businesses are also much more likely to be able to afford significant payouts — enough to help rebuild a survivor’s life — than individual perpetrators are.
We at the Stoddard Firm know that the help sex trafficking survivors need goes far beyond simply identifying and successfully suing their exploiters. Necessities like food, shelter, and medical care can’t wait until after a civil suit is over. Many survivors who get out while they are still underage also face guardianship disputes or the threat of being sent back to abusive home situations.
In addition to representing our clients in their suits against sex traffickers, we also help them apply for government assistance to cover immediate expenses, find quality treatment programs or shelters that meet their needs, and fight for their interests in all related legal conflicts.
If you are a survivor of underage sex trafficking in Georgia, whether as one of the 20 or not, reach out to The Stoddard Firm to learn more about how we can help.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who spent years defending major corporations in serious injury and wrongful death cases before switching sides to fight for families who have lost someone. Known for high-profile wrongful death trials featured on Courtroom View Network, he is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, he works tirelessly to pursue accountability and deliver results for families facing catastrophic loss.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
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I went through one of the worst times of my life. When I decided to reach out to Matt it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He really is a genuine guy who cares about his clients. He worked hard for me and my family for 2 years until we were awarded a settlement we felt deserving! I could not recommend a better guy for your legal services!
Attorney Matthew Stoddard and his staff are awesome professionals. I contacted them with a problem, in my opinion he went above and beyond to assist me. He showed understanding and care and exceeded my expectations.
The Stoddard Firm did an excellent job in representing me in my case ! They went far and beyond to help me, even driving 4 hours to meet me multiple times as a client!!! I honestly felt like I was a member of their legal team and would recommend them to anyone in need of a great lawyer!!!
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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