Q: What thing can be done about child labor and exploitation? can lawyers even get involved?
when I was 9 to 14 I was exploited at a horse barn. me and multiple other girls, but not all. the people who did manage to get out have been diagnosed with PTSD, even many years later. this stable is very good at manipulation. they make you want to stay because of horses, they take advantage of young girls with a passion for just being around horses, and the horse abuse that happens there is horrific. the owner is in higher departments of the SPCA, so no one can go against her. From 9 to 14 I was sleeping in a barn and wasn't allowed to go home in case I ``snitched`` (owner's words). She took advantage of my absent parents, and she forced me to drop out of school. I attempted suicide twice and was denied medical help, I was sexually abused and the owner knew it was happening and shamed me into keeping quiet. we were allowed to eat barely once a day, no showers, not allowed to wash our clothes and were forced to work 3am to 11pm every day or else she would ``take our horses`` (slaughter
A:
I'm very sorry to hear about your traumatic experiences. No child should have to go through that. Here are a few options for seeking justice and preventing further abuse:
- Contact a lawyer who specializes in child labor laws and exploitation. They can advise you on your legal rights and options, which may include filing a lawsuit or pressing criminal charges.
- Report the abuse to your local child protective services agency and/or the police. Even if the statute of limitations has expired for criminal charges, making a report could help build a case against the owner and prevent further victimization.
- Reach out to advocacy groups that fight against child labor and trafficking, such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline. They can connect you with legal and social support.
- Consider advocating for stronger laws against child exploitation and stricter enforcement. Share your story with local officials and legislators to help enact change.
- Seek counseling support. The trauma you endured can have long-lasting effects, and talking to a therapist or support group can help the healing process.
You showed tremendous courage in surviving such a horrific situation. While the justice system is imperfect, speaking up about what happened and seeking help can protect other children from the abuse and exploitation you suffered. I wish you the very best in finding closure and peace.
A:
There are laws that limit a person's ability to bring a lawsuit based on the passage of time. Those limits are often extended for a period of time until you reach the age of 18 when the limits start. Depending on your age and the amount of time that has passed, things that happened to you historically might be things you can no longer address legally.
It would nonetheless be a good idea for you to speak to an attorney who is familiar with the laws related to child labor and another attorney who practices personal injury law. You can provide far more information and then get advice you can rely upon.
Good luck to you.
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