Empowering Immigrant Survivors of Trafficking and Violence

Immigrant and Refugee Support

County of Los Angeles

Expand existing project, program, or initiative

Immigrants, both documented and undocumented, are especially vulnerable to domestic violence and human trafficking crimes because abusers use their immigration status as a means of control. Abusers threaten immigrants with and instill fear about deportation, detainment, and/or being separated from their children. Because of experiences in their home countries, immigrant victims may be more fearful of reporting crimes, interacting with law enforcement, and seeking social services assistance. Cultural beliefs, limited English language proficiency, and cultural/linguistic isolation can further deter immigrants from receiving help in these situations. They have difficulty knowing where to turn for help and trusting others to provide help. Without an advocate that understands their culture, language, experiences, and unique fears/anxieties, immigrant survivors are likely to remain in or return to violent homes as they feel they have no other choice.

LACLJ provides free complementary legal and social services, and we are the only nonprofit in Los Angeles County using this approach exclusively with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Staff are predominantly Latina and bilingual with fluency in English and Spanish, so legal professionals and case managers provide services from a culturally- and linguistically-appropriate perspective and are able to build trust relationships with clients. Additionally, LACLJ uses trauma-informed approaches to minimize further trauma as survivors pursue legal remedies and community-based support. LACLJ provides family law services for immigrant survivors to help them secure restraining orders, custody and visitation orders to protect minor children, and child and/or spousal support orders that offer a foundation for financial wellbeing. Legal services for immigrant survivors extends to relief through special visas afforded to crime victims that enable them to remain in the U.S. and work here legally so they can build self-sufficiency. Concurrently, LACLJ's case managers engage survivors in developing safety plans and meeting non-legal needs. Case managers help survivors obtain applicable financial benefits and health care coverage/access and connect survivors to community-based resources to meet essential needs such as housing and nutrition. Case managers also provide ongoing emotional support and accompaniment to court or mediation hearings.

Helping immigrant survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking strengthens the Los Angeles community. LACLJ's vision is that of a strong community where families are safe, stable and free from injustice, and our work helps make that vision a reality. When immigrant survivors are relieved of fears/anxieties, physical/emotional trauma and threats of deportation or family separation, they can heal and contribute to the vibrancy of our community. Immigrant survivors are better able to protect and build healthy relationships with their children under legally-binding restraining orders and custody, support and visitation orders. Immigrants who have been isolated will be able to work, pursue their dreams and reunite with family through visas LACLJ helps them obtain. By building self-sufficiency and engaging actively in the community, they will improve quality of life in Los Angeles and help break the cycle of abuse so future generations are less likely to become victims or abusers.

LACLJ tracks statistical success indicators and gathers survivor feedback. We secure a significant number of positive case outcomes annually, which is one measure of success. Last year, we obtained 62 restraining orders, 145 favorable custody orders, and 425 other positive outcomes for family and immigration law matters. Additionally, we measure the impact of our comprehensive service model on survivors' quality of life. Upon intake, most survivors report mental health issues that impair daily functioning, have persistent problems and/or severe issues (e.g., suicidal ideation), and report chronic physical symptoms that impact housing or employment; 28% lack stable housing. Results of surveys and exit interviews/assessments reveal successes in addressing these issues. Because we help survivors resolve critical issues related to safety and security, 98% of clients report feeling more hopeful, 96% are less fearful, 94% are more confident, and 94% have improved parent-child relationships.