Aggressively Fighting for the Best Possible Outcome
TAMPA HUMAN TRAFFICKING DEFENSE ATTORNEYS
Experienced Human Trafficking Lawyer in Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, & Beyond
Human trafficking charges are among the most serious criminal offenses in the United States, often carrying severe penalties that can include lengthy prison sentences and a number of other lifelong consequences. If you’re facing these charges in Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, or beyond, having a skilled criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your future.
As a former prosecutor and one of the leading Tampa human trafficking defense attorneys, Attorney Andrew Buda of Buda Law knows what it takes to fight these charges head-on. Whether your case involves allegations of a sex crime or other trafficking-related charges, Andrew and his dedicated legal team are here to protect your rights and fight hard to avoid a criminal conviction.
Contact Buda Law today at (813)-322-2832 or send a message online to schedule a free consultation with a human trafficking defense lawyer in Tampa, Florida today.
Human Trafficking in Florida
Under both Florida and federal law, human trafficking is a serious crime involving the exploitation of human beings for profit through forced labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of coercion. Florida law specifically defines human trafficking as using force, fraud, or coercion to compel victims into sexual activity, sex trafficking, sexual slavery, or other exploitative practices.
Human trafficking cases also often include domestic servitude, where individuals are forced to work in private homes under inhumane conditions, or other industries where victims suffer physical harm and psychological abuse.
Both state and federal laws impose severe penalties on those convicted of these crimes.
Sex Trafficking vs. Labor Trafficking vs. Exploitation
Human trafficking encompasses various forms of exploitation, each with distinct elements and criminal charges. For example, sex trafficking involves coercing individuals into performing sexual acts or sexual activity, often under the threat of violence. Labor trafficking, on the other hand, forces individuals into involuntary labor, slave labor, or involuntary servitude, commonly linked to industries like agriculture, domestic work, or construction.
Exploitation can also take many forms, including forced marriages, fraud, or schemes involving money laundering, all designed to benefit traffickers at the expense of their victims.
Florida Statutes 787.06
Under Florida state law, human trafficking is recognized as a serious offense with severe penalties to match. According to Florida Statute 787.06, human trafficking involves transporting, soliciting, recruiting, harboring, providing, enticing, maintaining, or obtaining another person for the purpose of exploitation. This includes both sex trafficking and forced labor.
State vs. Federal Human Trafficking Charges
Human trafficking can be prosecuted under both state and federal laws, depending on the circumstances of the crime. While state laws, such as Florida Statutes 787.06, focus on addressing trafficking within the state, federal prosecutors handle cases involving interstate or international involvement.
Federal human trafficking laws, including those under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, impose harsher penalties for crimes like sexual exploitation and coercion into sexual acts that cross state lines or national borders.
The criminal justice system for federal offenses can be more complex, requiring a strong legal defense tailored to the specifics of the human trafficking case. This makes having an experienced federal criminal defense attorney essential to navigate the distinctions between state and federal laws and build a strong defense.
How Much Time Can You Get for Human Trafficking in Florida?
In Florida, human trafficking is considered a violent crime with severe penalties based on the particular crime committed. For instance, trafficking minors for a sex crime or sexual assault is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to life imprisonment.
For other forms of human trafficking, such as forced labor, defendants can face up to 30 years in prison, along with substantial fines. Convictions for these offenses also often require mandatory sex offender registration, particularly when the crime involves an element of sexual exploitation.
Florida Human Trafficking Penalties
Here is a further breakdown of the penalties for human trafficking prescribed in the Florida Statutes:
- Labor or Services Involving Minors: Trafficking a child under 18, or someone believed to be under 18, for labor or services is a first-degree felony.
- Coercing Adults for Labor or Services: Forcing an adult to work using threats or coercion is also a first-degree felony.
- Coercing Adults for Commercial Sex: Forcing an adult into commercial sexual activity through coercion is a first-degree felony.
- Trafficking Undocumented Individuals:
- Using coercion for labor or services of an undocumented adult or child is a first-degree felony.
- Trafficking undocumented individuals for commercial sexual activity is a first-degree felony, and trafficking minors under these conditions could result in life imprisonment.
- Transporting Victims Across State Lines:
- Bringing children or adults believed to be minors into Florida for labor, services, or commercial sexual activity is a first-degree felony, with minors in sexual trafficking cases punishable by up to life imprisonment.
- Trafficking Vulnerable Victims: Exploiting children, individuals believed to be minors, or mentally incapacitated persons for commercial sexual activity is a life felony.
- Parental Involvement in Trafficking: A parent or guardian who knowingly transfers custody of a child, resulting in trafficking, commits a life felony.
- Branding Trafficking Victims: Permanently marking a victim is a second-degree felony.
- Offense Reclassification: If trafficking causes serious injury, the charges can be upgraded—for example, a first-degree felony may become a life felony.
Federal Penalties for Human Trafficking Convictions
Federal penalties for human trafficking convictions are among the harshest in the legal system. Depending on the nature of the crime, penalties can range from up to 20 years to life in federal prison.
Additionally, federal sentencing guidelines often impose lifetime supervision, asset forfeiture, and hefty fines. Beyond the courtroom, a conviction carries significant consequences for a defendant’s family, employment, and social standing.
Whether convicted of a Florida or federal offense, being labeled as a trafficker can make it nearly impossible to rebuild one’s life or career. This makes understanding your legal options with the help of a Tampa criminal defense attorney like Andrew Buda essential when facing these penalties.
What to Do If You Are Facing Human Trafficking Charges in Tampa
If you are facing human trafficking charges in Tampa, it is crucial to act quickly and carefully. Whether the case involves sex trafficking, forced labor, or any other related trafficking crime, your first step should be to contact an experienced attorney.
In the meantime, avoid speaking to law enforcement or discussing the alleged victim without legal representation, as anything you say could be used against you.
Andrew Buda and his law firm have extensive experience handling complex trafficking cases, offering personalized strategies to protect your rights and build a strong defense. As a skilled criminal defense lawyer, Andrew can guide you through the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome. Call Buda Law today at (813)-322-2832 for a free and confidential consultation.
Why You Need a Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Like Andrew Buda
Facing human trafficking charges, including sex trafficking or other trafficking or sex crime charges, requires immediate and skilled legal representation. Fortunately, Andrew Buda is a highly experienced defense lawyer with a proven track record in handling both state and federal cases. He understands the many challenges of the criminal process, both at the state and federal level, and uses aggressive defense strategies to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect his client’s rights.
Early legal intervention is critical in building the best possible legal defense, especially in these types of cases, and Andrew Buda’s comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly examined. If you are facing serious charges like human trafficking, trust Andrew Buda to fight for your future with determination.
Work with an Experienced Former Prosecutor
Working with an attorney who is also a former prosecutor (such as Andrew Buda) provides a significant advantage in navigating the legal process. Andrew’s experience on both sides of the courtroom allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies, whether they rely on witness statements, evidence of medical expenses, or other claims to build their case.
By leveraging his knowledge of prosecutorial tactics, Andrew crafts a powerful defense to establish reasonable doubt and dismantle the opposition’s arguments. His deep understanding of criminal law ensures your rights are protected throughout the legal process, giving you the strongest chance for a favorable outcome.
Defending Against Human Trafficking Charges in Tampa
Defending against human trafficking charges in Tampa requires a strategic approach and a thorough understanding of the legal complexities involved.
In cases of sex trafficking, for instance, the defense may argue that they were falsely accused or were misidentified, which is common in complex trafficking investigations. Lack of knowledge of the illegal activities is another key defense, particularly when intent is difficult to prove. If coercion or duress played a role, the defense can demonstrate that the accused acted under pressure or threats beyond their control.
Constitutional violations, such as unlawful search and seizure or improper interrogation, can also lead to the dismissal of charges. Additionally, claims of entrapment by law enforcement may be valid if officers induced the alleged illegal activities.
At Buda Law, our attorneys work tirelessly to gather evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and address these critical legal issues to build the strongest possible defense and avoid the criminal penalties associated with such a crime. Rest assured, you can trust an experienced defense lawyer at our law firm to fight for your future.
Protect Your Rights with an Experienced Tampa Human Trafficking Defense Attorney at Buda Law
Human trafficking is a grave offense that involves the exploitation of individuals through coercion, fraud, or force for purposes such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, or other illicit activities. These charges can encompass allegations of sex trafficking, labor trafficking, or even facilitating these acts, each carrying severe penalties including a long-term prison sentence, heavy fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Needless to say, such accusations can profoundly impact your personal life, reputation, and future.
Andrew Buda and his team of experienced attorneys at Buda Law recognize the severity of these allegations and are prepared to fight aggressively to protect your rights. With years of experience in both state and federal courts, Andrew Buda leverages his background as a former prosecutor to anticipate and counter the strategies used against you.
If you are under investigation or facing charges related to human trafficking, take immediate action to protect your future. Contact Buda Law today for a free consultation and let us provide the skilled representation you need to navigate these challenging circumstances. Call (813)-322-2832 as soon as possible to schedule your free case evaluation with a skilled legal professional on our team.
START BUILDING YOUR CASE
Schedule a Free Consultation
WHAT MAKES OUR DEFENSE SO EFFECTIVE?
- Former State Prosecutor
- Highly Responsive & Accessible
- Result-Oriented Advocacy
- We Prepare Every Case as if it's Going to Trial
- Personal Representation Centered Around You
- Exceptional Negotiator