Now You Know
Understanding Your Rights and the Legal Process
In our new video series, “Now You Know,” we dive into important topics that help you navigate tough life choices, like considering whether to report your trafficker or abuser to the police. This series is brought to you by Angels of Hope Against Human Trafficking, in collaboration with Timea’s Cause, which is a supportive educational hub led by survivors.
Introduction
Hosted by someone who has personally experienced human trafficking and went through court, this series offers trauma-informed, survivor-led guidance on how to handle the legal system starting from the moment you think about reporting your abuser.
We’ve gathered valuable insights from police officers, Crown Attorneys, professionals, and survivors actively working in the field. They share their knowledge about the complexities of the legal process, making it easier for you to understand.
Plus, you can download a helpful PDF document right from this page. It’s designed for you to save on your phone so you can revisit the information anytime you need. Our mission is to create a safe, judgment-free space where survivors can learn, heal, and feel empowered in their choices. We invite you to join us on this journey to promote understanding and support for everyone.
Subtitles / Closed Caption are available to meet all accessibility needs.
Let’s Make a Change
This chapter dives into the emotional roller coaster that often comes with the decision to go to the police or leave an abuser. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions during this time, and this episode is here to help you navigate those feelings. It will guide you through where you might be emotionally and, most importantly, help you recognize that what you’re feeling is valid. You’re not alone in this, and finding validation for your emotions can be a big step forward.
Knowing Your Rights as a Victim
In this episode, we’re sharing your essential rights as a trafficking survivor. You have the right to information about your case, protection during the legal process, and a chance to express how the crime has impacted you through a victim impact statement. You can also seek financial help for your losses!
We will highlight these rights and encourage you to visit the Government of Canada’s website for more details. There is also an Ontario Victim Bill of Rights, which is very similar to the Canadian Bill. Please download the complete booklet from the website to learn more about the Ontario Victim Bill of Rights as well.
Understanding your rights is a powerful step on your journey, and we’re here to support you!
Talking to the Police
In this episode, we talk about the steps you can take when you are ready to file a police report. We help you understand the system and will walk you through the process step by step.
Filing a Report
In this section, we outline the steps for filing a report with local police, whether you’re under arrest or not. This guide ensures you know your options and how to proceed safely and with confidence.
After Filing Police Report
In this episode, we’re going to explore what happens after you file your report. We’ll cover things like when an arrest might be made and who will be there to represent you in court. It’s all about getting you the information you need to feel more prepared and supported during this process. Join us as we walk through these important steps together!
Preparing for court
The nerve-wracking stage of preparing for court can be challenging. One thing is certain: if you’ve made it this far, you’re likely committed to moving forward this time. This episode will be incredibly helpful as you navigate the next steps. We’re here to support you and provide the information you need to feel more confident as you approach this important moment.
Court Procedure Part 1 and Part 2
Navigating the court system can feel really complicated at times, but the great news is you don’t have to do it alone! While we’ve tried our best to break things down for you in this episode, be sure to download the PDF as well. It’s a handy resource that you can pull up on your phone whenever you need a reminder about what happens next. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Some good news! – Bonus clip
Verdict & Sentencing
While we can’t predict the outcome of your case, we tried our best to sum up this stage of the court process. The summary of this episode is a high-level explanation, there are more details in the PDF, so if you want o learn more about this part of the process, feel free to look it up.
After court
Normally this is the part you will have to figure out on your own, however in this video we share an extremely important message from a survivor’s perspective that’s barely being mentioned or said during or after court to us, victims. Please make sure you watch this, we promise it will be worth your time.
We hope the video series offered guidance and help. Please save the website link because the videos will be available for years to come. And you may want to come back and look up some information down the road. Wishing you all the best and strength for your upcoming journey.
