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by The Stoddard Firm - January 5th, 2021
As a law firm specializing in civil litigation, The Stoddard Firm tends to discuss issues like sex trafficking in terms of liability. However, we recognize that the litigation process is slow, and for many people facing sex trafficking, the idea of filing a lawsuit may seem impossibly distant and abstract.
In this post, we’ll instead highlight just a few of the resources available to people in the Atlanta area who need immediate help avoiding, escaping, or healing from sex trafficking.
If you have a limited opportunity to call for help and don’t have time to figure out what you’re eligible for based on age, gender, location, etc., call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 to be connected with a vetted organization that’s appropriate for you.
If you’re in the Atlanta area and prefer to weigh your options yourself, you might want to consider Wellspring Living, which offers a 13-month live-in program for women and minors 12 and up. Their services include therapy, medical care, educational support, and skill-building for independence.
Georgia Cares and youthSpark also offer programs for minors of all genders, both those escaping sex trafficking and those at risk for it. Georgia Cares has licensed social workers who can assess individual needs, while youthSpark has a program tailored to at-risk LGBTQ youth. Both have a strong focus on non-discrimination and accessibility.
The Devereux Center also has a program in Georgia for girls and women aged 10-21 who have been affected by sex trafficking. This option takes a more medical angle, focusing on treatment for PTSD, substance abuse, and other common medical after-effects.
Survivors who welcome the idea of being part of a close Christian community and incorporating spirituality into their recovery process have a multitude of options to choose from.
Adult women can call the emergency hotline for Out of Darkness, a branch of the Atlanta Dream Center, to be picked up and transported immediately to a safehouse, where they can receive mentoring, substance abuse counseling, coaching on health and goals, and opportunities to address their feelings.
Underage survivors, both girls and boys, can call a similar emergency hotline with Street Grace, and boys in particular are welcome at The Buddy House.
Beloved Atlanta and Haven ATL (a branch of The Salvation Army) also provide rehabilitation services to women affected by sex trafficking, although they do not have direct emergency lines.
Immigrants to the U.S., both documented and undocumented, are at particular risk of exploitation, and there are some organizations that focus exclusively on this issue.
Tapestri protects immigrants and refugees of all ages and genders from domestic violence and human trafficking, and has rescue hotlines for both.
The Georgia Asylum and Immigration Network (GAIN) also serves immigrants affected by these issues, but instead of rescue intervention, they offer legal assistance. In particular, they help victims of crime and persecution gain asylum and other legal protections. This is different from the civil litigation the Stoddard Firm specializes in.
The Stoddard Firm wishes you freedom and safety. When and if you feel ready to pursue the compensation you deserve from those who’ve exploited you in the past, we’re here to take your call.
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.
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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