Bill would require State Bar to offer resources to human traffic victims

An Assembly bill introduced Tuesday would require the State Bar to work with local bar associations and legal aid organizations to provide services to victims of human trafficking.

AB 2008 mandates the bar provide educational materials and resources and publish a list of organizations willing to provide pro bono legal services to those affected by trafficking who cannot afford a lawyer, according to the bill introduced Tuesday by Assembly Member Jordan Cunningham, R-Templeton.

Before Jan. 1, 2022, the State Bar would be required to publish a report on whether there is a need for legal advice clinics for victims of human trafficking.

“The Legislature finds that securing civil legal assistance is difficult for victims of human trafficking and their families who cannot afford legal services, for reasons unique to their trafficking status,” according to the bill’s language, which would add Section 6074.5 to the Business and Professions Code.

The bill’s language cites existing law that requires the State Bar to engage with other organizations to provide legal services to military veterans and their families who cannot afford it. It says the State Bar is required to further those provisions.

“The Legislature further finds that the State Bar is uniquely suited to bring together organizations to help coordinate the delivery of civil legal services for victims of human trafficking and their families,” according to the proposed bill.

The State Bar declined comment, stating it has not yet read the bill.