Modern Slavery

It can include human trafficking, slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour. It can be either a local or an international issue, and involves exercising control over a vulnerable person for the purpose of exploitation – often sexual or labour exploitation.

Victims of modern slavery often do not identify themselves as such, or are unwilling to come forward to public authorities, for fear of reprisal, deportation, or of not being believed. There are obligations placed on the authorities to protect victims of modern slavery.

We assist clients who have been victims of modern slavery but who have not received the help they should have had from the state. Holding the state to account in cases like this is vitally important for the individual who has been failed but can also lead to improved policies and training, which ensure that victims of modern slavery are protected and cared for better in the future.

The expertise we have at Berris Law covers a range of legal areas, which allows us to provide rounded advice to clients. Our clients benefit from the teamwork and coordination between the following departments:

The Crime Department understands that victims of modern slavery often first come in to contact with the authorities after being arrested. Our team are trained to spot the signs of modern slavery and to assert their client’s right to protection, in the police station and the courts.

The Family Department can assist you if the Local Authority (Social Services) become involved in relation to your children, or to you if you are a child. Our team is able to provide you with advice regarding the local authority’s powers and duties, and to take steps to safeguard your (or your child’s) rights.