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by The Stoddard Firm - April 1st, 2021
Two important bills in Georgia’s fight against sex trafficking passed the State Senate on March 8th, the General Assembly’s crossover day. These bills will now advance to the House for further debate, and could well become law in the near future. The first, Senate Bill 33, explicitly protects sex trafficking survivors’ right to sue their traffickers for monetary compensation, plus legal costs.
Under Bill 33, survivors would have until 10 years after the trafficking incident in question, or 10 years after their 18th birthday, whichever is later, to file a suit. These civil suits would be kept on hold until after any criminal proceedings for the same incidents, but this delay would not count as part of the 10-year time limit or negatively affect the survivor’s right to compensation.
This could be a major boon for sex trafficking survivors who are searching for justice and a new life on their own terms, as well as a huge step toward eliminating sex trafficking as a profitable criminal enterprise in Georgia.
The text of Bill 33 defines a perpetrator of sex trafficking as “a person or entity that knowingly benefits, financially or by receiving anything of value, from participation in a venture or scheme which such person or entity knew or should have known involved a violation of Code Section 16-5-46.”
This includes not only the individuals easily associated with the words “sex trafficker” — the kidnappers, recruiters, and pimps — but also customers, hotel owners and employees, advertising platforms, transportation providers, stylists, and anyone else who knowingly accepts business, bribes, or anything else from a sex trafficker.
The bill also specifically repeals all conflicting laws, which would include pre-existing loopholes protecting any of these groups. This should help incentivize individuals and businesses alike to report suspected sex trafficking, instead of ignoring or collaborating with it.
Survivors will be able to sue any or all complicit parties, so they’ll have more options than ever when it comes time to choose a guilty defendant who can afford to pay for a worthwhile settlement.
Bill 34 allows sex trafficking survivors to petition to change their names without the change being announced publicly, as is usually required. Victims of family violence can already make this petition for a private name change, and many sex trafficking survivors have just as great a need for anonymity.
Both bills are expected to receive bipartisan support in the House. When speaking of his support for Bill 34, State Senator Clint Dixon brought up a past incident where he believes the availability of a private name change might have given a survivor in his district the safety she needed to move on here in Georgia. Instead, she and her family had to combine a name change with moving out of state.
Hopefully, both Bill 33 and Bill 34 will soon be part of Georgia law. While this will be extremely helpful for all those fighting to end or recover from sex trafficking, there’s no need to wait before filing a civil suit. Regardless of whether these bills pass, a quick response means better chances of success, and The Stoddard Firm is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We’ll strategize with you on how to get the best possible settlement, bring your abusers to justice, and protect your privacy in the process. To learn more, give us a call any time.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who takes on major corporations and global insurers with virtually unlimited resources. Known for high-profile cases featured on Courtroom Viewing Network, this attorney is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, they work tirelessly to secure justice and deliver results.
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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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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