Expert Testimony in Sex Trafficking Cases.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychiatry
• Trauma Studies
• Criminology

Background:

• Sex trafficking survivor credibility is often challenged in court due to misunderstood behaviors.
• Misconceptions about survivors' reactions can hinder prosecution of sex trafficking cases.
• Understanding trauma's impact on survivor behavior is critical for legal proceedings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the role of expert testimony in sex trafficking prosecutions.
• To highlight the infrequent use of forensic psychiatrists in these cases.
• To underscore the importance of understanding trauma-related behaviors in survivors.

Main Methods:

• Review of current laws and challenges in prosecuting sex trafficking.
• Summary of clinical research on mental health sequelae of sex trafficking.
• Analysis of published judicial opinions on expert testimony in sex trafficking cases.

Main Results:

• Forensic psychiatrists are rarely utilized as expert witnesses in sex trafficking cases.
• Expert testimony can elucidate how trauma influences survivor behavior, such as recanting or reluctance.
• This testimony can enhance the perceived credibility of trafficking survivors.

Conclusions:

• Forensic psychiatrists are vital for educating courts on trauma-informed responses of sex trafficking survivors.
• Their expertise can improve the accuracy of restitution calculations by assessing treatment needs.
• Increased utilization of forensic psychiatrists can strengthen sex trafficking prosecutions.