Representing Victims of Human Trafficking in Massachusetts
A GUIDE FOR ATTORNEYS
2nd Edition | May 2020
2020 Edition Revised and Edited by
Rachel Bier, James Bor-Zale, Elizabeth Mooney*, and Stephanie Neely | Wilmerhale
Betsy Byra and Julie Dahlstrom | Boston University School of Law Immigrants' Rights and Human Trafficking Program
2013 Edition Authored by
Dara Goodman*, Stephanie Neely, and Michaela Sewall, WilmerHale
2013 Edition Edited by
Seth Orkand*, WilmerHale
Julie Dahlstrom, Boston University School of Law Immigrants' Rights and Human Trafficking Program
With assistance from Deborah Bercovitch*, Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office
* Professional affiliation listed reflects affiliation as of 2013
This Guide provides attorneys with a general overview of human trafficking law in Massachusetts in an effort to help attorneys identify victims of human trafficking and determine how to meet their legal and non-legal needs. It provides attorneys with a foundation concerning federal and state law and refers them to more comprehensive resources, where appropriate.
In particular, the Guide discusses the following topics in detail:
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Identifying victims and recognizing indicators of human trafficking
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An introduction to international, federal, and Massachusetts human trafficking laws
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Advice on working with vulnerable and diverse populations
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Immigration remedies for victims of human trafficking victims, including how to apply for and obtain T visas and U visas
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Issues specific to child victims of human trafficking, including the safe harbor under Massachusetts law for minor victims involved in criminal prosecution
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Issues specific to victims of human trafficking who are also criminal defendants
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Aiding prosecution of traffickers
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Civil remedies available to victims of human trafficking under federal and Massachusetts law
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Non-legal benefits and resources available to victims of human trafficking under federal and Massachusetts law
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Massachusetts resources available to victims of human trafficking