South Carolina law firm seeks justice for survivors of human trafficking
May 1, 2018
S.C. Legal Services wins grant to hire equal justice attorney
South Carolina Legal Services has won a grant that will allow the non-profit law to hire an attorney who will represent survivors of human trafficking in South Carolina. The Crime Victims Justice Corps Legal Fellow will ensure that victims have access to their rights in the Palmetto State.
As 2017 came to a close, South Carolina law enforcement reported that 72 active cases of human trafficking in the state. Each case involved one victim. But most involve multiple victims.
“Most people think of slavery as a thing of the past. But, it is not,” said Rusty Infinger, General Counsel for S.C. Legal Services. “When right-minded prosecutors take down the men who are at the top of criminal enterprises, young girls and women are left physically scared, facing criminal charges themselves and are often on the hook for fraudulent financial deals. They need a personal lawyer, not just a public defender.”
The fellowship from Equal Justice Works (EJW) is for two years, from June 2018 until May 2020. The EJW Fellow will provide legal services, outreach, and education to address the needs of human trafficking victims. This will include matters involving family law, education, employment, immigration, and consumer protection, as well as enforcing crime victims’ rights. Each year, EWJ funds hundreds of public interest attorneys to close the justice gap on issues such as foreclosure, community economic development, immigration, civil rights, homelessness, access to healthcare, and domestic violence. This program is supported by an award from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office for Victims of Crime, and private funding.
Trial preparation is a crucial step in ensuring that survivors of human trafficking receive the justice they deserve. Legal teams must meticulously gather evidence, prepare witnesses, and develop compelling arguments to present in court. This process often involves coordinating with law enforcement, forensic experts, and social service providers to build a strong case. Many survivors have endured complex trauma, making it essential for attorneys to approach their cases with sensitivity and a thorough understanding of their unique circumstances. By leveraging resources like BP Trial Tech Services, legal teams can efficiently organize case materials, manage digital evidence, and streamline courtroom presentations to advocate effectively for their clients.
In addition to evidence management, trial preparation includes pre-trial motions, depositions, and ensuring that survivors are prepared for testimony. Given the high stakes of these cases, attorneys must anticipate potential challenges, such as witness intimidation or evidentiary disputes, and proactively address them. Collaborating with trauma-informed professionals and victim advocates ensures that survivors feel supported throughout the legal process. With the right preparation and technology-driven support, legal teams can provide the comprehensive representation that trafficking survivors need to reclaim their rights and rebuild their lives.
Interested applicants can view the job posting here.
About South Carolina Legal Services
SCLS is South Carolina’s only statewide non-profit law firm. For more than 50 years, it has provided civil legal services to protect the rights and represent the interests of low income South Carolinians. Attorneys, paralegals and support staff are located in offices throughout the state. For more information or to apply for services, visit www.sclegal.org.
