Orlando Human Trafficking Lawyer

Orlando Human Trafficking Attorney

Being accused of human trafficking is one of the most serious charges that an individual can face. Florida takes these allegations very seriously, and prosecutors will often pursue human trafficking charges as aggressively as violent offenses.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with human trafficking, you need an Orlando human trafficking lawyer who knows how to handle these cases and is determined to protect your future.

About Robert B. Fisher, P.A.

Robert B. Fisher, P.A., is a Central Florida criminal defense law firm located in Orlando. Mr. Fisher has over 45 years of legal experience and is a former prosecutor. He has been providing defense services to those charged with serious felonies in Central Florida since 1999.

Robert B. Fisher is a frequent litigator in the Orange County Courthouse as well as the Seminole County Criminal Justice Center. His firm provides discreet and aggressive criminal defense for individuals charged with complex and high-level crimes.

Former Prosecutor

Call 407-389-4529 or contact the office online to schedule your free initial consultation.

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Orlando Human Trafficking Laws

Human trafficking in Florida manifests in various ways that extend beyond the typical assumption of massive international or organized crime groups. Florida Statute §787.06 defines trafficking as the act of using force, threat, or trickery to compel another person to provide labor or engage in sexual conduct.

In the case of a minor, no force or threat is necessary. Merely being accused of human trafficking with a minor can be enough for severe legal consequences.

Florida takes these cases very seriously. The state’s major ports and expansive tourism sector make Florida a primary target for law enforcement operations. Local law enforcement and federal agencies in Florida work together 24/7 on investigations and sting operations. In their zeal to make arrests, sometimes mistakes are made, and innocent people become victims of mass arrests.

Florida Human Trafficking Statistics

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 1,830 signals were received from Florida in 2024, with 600 being from victims or survivors of human trafficking. That year, 832 cases were identified.

Florida has consistently ranked high in comparison to other states when it comes to human trafficking occurrences. In 2024, Florida was the third-highest state in human trafficking reports. This adds pressure to law enforcement to alleviate the issue, which poses a risk of innocent individuals being charged.

What Counts as Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking charges can arise from the most diverse of circumstances. Not every case involves a large trafficking ring. Providing someone with a ride, allowing someone to live in your house, or having an online conversation that is later misconstrued can result in charges.

You could be charged for a variety of things, such as:

• Forcing someone to do sexual work
• Hiring a minor escort
• Transporting a person for labor, especially illegally or suspiciously
• Being associated with someone else who is engaging in trafficking activities

Digital evidence, such as text messages and social media posts, along with financial records and testimony from alleged victims or informants, typically forms the foundation of these cases. Therefore, a human trafficking attorney can understand that context, which will allow them to detect hidden inconsistencies or errors in the case.

Penalties for Human Trafficking

Human trafficking charges are some of the most severe in Florida. In most cases, you will be charged with a first-degree felony. If the victim is a minor, you are looking at a mandatory minimum prison sentence and possibly life.

However, jail time is not the only punishment you face. You can also face:

• Mandatory sex offender registry
• Reputational damage
• A criminal record
• Losing custody of your children
• Trouble finding employment and housing

Hire a Human Trafficking Lawyer

Immediate steps must be taken when accused of human trafficking or when investigations begin against you. These are serious cases, and prosecutors often move quickly. In some instances, a case may be filed before all the facts are known. The earlier an experienced criminal defense attorney is retained, the better the opportunity to protect rights and preserve your future.

Hiring a human trafficking lawyer allows for an immediate assessment of the prosecution’s evidence, as well as potential errors in the legal process. An attorney can also begin to craft a defense strategy specific to your case. Your legal representative can determine investigative weaknesses and witness credibility concerns, along with other possible issues.

FAQs

What Evidence Is Needed to Prove Human Trafficking?

Evidence needed to prove human trafficking cases includes witness statements, digital communication records, and financial documentation. Sometimes, the prosecution relies on surveillance footage that demonstrates acts of coercion or exploitation. Coercion need not be proven when the victim is a minor.

The state must demonstrate that the defendant knew they were harboring or transporting someone and understood that the person was forced into labor or sexual activity against their will.

What Are the Three P’s of Human Trafficking?

The three P’s of human trafficking are prevention, protection, and prosecution. Prevention is reducing the vulnerability to trafficking through education and proactive intervention. Protection requires that victims obtain care and support while authorities protect and enforce their legal rights. Prosecution is the application of criminal justice to traffickers and enforcers.

What Are the New Human Trafficking Laws in Florida?

There are no new human trafficking laws in Florida; however, changes to the current laws have increased the severity of penalties given to those convicted and provided greater protections for victims. The changes also increase law enforcement’s ability to investigate and address human trafficking and increase penalties for businesses that willfully benefit from human trafficking.

What Are the Basic Rights of a Victim of Human Trafficking?

Victims of human trafficking have a right to safety, medical care, and legal assistance. Victims of human trafficking could qualify for housing assistance and mental health support services. In Florida, they may be able to seek protection orders and may be exempt from prosecution for crimes committed as a direct result of being trafficked.

Contact Robert B. Fisher, P.A., Today

If you were charged with human trafficking, you can fight for your future in hopes that it doesn’t become a conviction. Robert B. Fisher, P.A., can help you in this legal battle. Contact us today to get started.