Human trafficking is a grave offense with severe penalties under the Criminal Code of Canada. If you are facing human trafficking charges, it is crucial to understand the nature of these charges and the importance of securing experienced legal representation.
What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation, harboring, or control of individuals for the purpose of exploitation. This exploitation can include forced labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of involuntary servitude.
Key Offenses Related to Human Trafficking:
- Trafficking in Persons: Involves recruiting, transporting, transferring, receiving, holding, concealing, or harboring a person for the purpose of exploitation.
- Material Benefit from Trafficking: Receiving financial or other benefits derived from human trafficking.
- Withholding or Destroying Documents: Concealing, removing, withholding, or destroying travel or identity documents to facilitate human trafficking.
Penalties for Human Trafficking
The penalties for human trafficking can be severe, particularly when secondary offenses are involved or when the victim is under 18. These penalties range from significant fines to lengthy prison sentences.
Potential Sanctions:
- Trafficking in Persons: Can result in a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, especially when accompanied by secondary offenses like kidnapping, aggravated assault, or causing death.
- Material Benefit from Trafficking: Can lead to imprisonment and substantial fines.
- Withholding or Destroying Documents: If prosecuted summarily, the maximum punishment is 2 years less a day imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $5,000. If prosecuted by indictment, the maximum penalty is 5 years imprisonment.
Defending Human Trafficking Charges
Defending against human trafficking charges requires a thorough and strategic legal approach. Key defense strategies include:
- Factual Innocence: Arguing that the Crown has not met the burden of proving the essential elements of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Duress: If the accused committed the offense under compulsion by threats of death or bodily harm, the defense of duress may be applicable.
- Violation of Charter Rights: Arguing that the accused’s rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms were violated during the investigation or arrest. This can lead to a stay of proceedings or exclusion of evidence.
- Alternative Outcomes: Exploring the possibility of alternative resolutions such as withdrawal of charges, stay of proceedings, or diversion programs. These options depend on the specifics of the case and the accused’s history.
Importance of Legal Representation
Navigating human trafficking charges is complex and requires the expertise of an experienced criminal defense lawyer such as Gary Batasar. He can help you understand your rights, build a robust defense, and represent you effectively in court.
Why Choose Gary Batasar:
- Expertise: Gary Batasar extensive experience in handling human trafficking cases.
- Client-Centered Approach: He prioritizes the clients’ needs and provide flexible payment plans, no hidden fees, and 24/7 availability.
- Comprehensive Defense: He work closely with you to develop the best possible defense strategy.
Contact Us: If you or a loved one has been charged with human trafficking, do not face this charge alone. Contact Gary Batasar, an experienced Human Trafficking Defense Lawyer immediately. He is committed to providing the best legal representation and ensuring your rights are protected.