In this powerful episode, Gerard Virga sits down with Bettie, founder of Mariposa Law Group, to explore the critical but often overlooked intersection of human trafficking and family law.

Bettie shares her journey from legal aid attorney to advocate for vulnerable populations, revealing how coercive control operates in relationships and why our legal system frequently fails trafficking survivors. The conversation delves into polyvictimization, the repeated cycles of trauma that victims experience, and how restorative justice can offer healing rather than punishment.

From understanding the symbolism behind "Mariposa" (butterfly) as transformation and empowerment to discussing the urgent need for specialized legal protections, this episode sheds light on systemic failures and the path forward for supporting survivors.

Key Topics Covered:

• Human trafficking's hidden presence in family law cases
• Coercive control as a form of domestic violence
• The importance of legal aid experience in handling vulnerable populations
• Polyvictimization and cycles of trauma
• Restorative justice approaches
• Systemic changes needed in legal protections
• Education and awareness as tools for combating trafficking

Bettie is the founder of Mariposa Law Group, a practice dedicated to serving vulnerable populations affected by human trafficking and domestic violence. With extensive experience in legal aid, Bettie has dedicated her career to empowering survivors and advocating for systemic change in how the legal system addresses trafficking cases, particularly within family law contexts.

"I just did not like injustice." - Bettie on what drove her to legal aid work

"The system is not fair." - Bettie on current legal protections for trafficking victims

• 00:00 - Introduction to Human Trafficking in Family Law
• 04:25 - The Journey into Legal Aid and Public Service
• 08:09 - Empowering Vulnerable Populations
• 13:07 - Understanding Coercive Control
• 19:49 - The Intersection of Coercive Control and Human Trafficking
• 27:51 - Awareness and Education on Human Trafficking
• 32:33 - Understanding the Roots of Human Trafficking
• 36:25 - The Impact of Polyvictimization
• 41:39 - Restorative Justice and Its Importance
• 48:11 - The Symbolism of Mariposa: Transformation and Healing
• 54:30 - Addressing the Underlying Issues in Domestic Violence
• 58:40 - The Need for Specialized Legal Protections Against Trafficking

Mariposa Law Group

• Human trafficking cases are frequently overlooked in family law proceedings
• Coercive control represents a significant form of domestic violence that's often misunderstood
• Legal aid experience is crucial for effectively representing vulnerable populations
• Empowering clients to make informed choices is essential for their healing journey
• Current legal systems often fail to adequately protect trafficking victims
• Polyvictimization creates ongoing cycles of trauma that require specialized intervention
• Restorative justice offers healing-focused alternatives to traditional punishment models
• The butterfly (Mariposa) symbolizes the transformation possible for survivors
• Education and public awareness are fundamental to combating human trafficking
• Comprehensive systemic change is needed to protect trafficking victims...

In this episode of the Florida Family Law Attorney Podcast, host Gerard Virga speaks with Kevin Maloney, CEO, and Megan Seraphine, Community Engagement Manager of Children in Crisis. They discuss the organization's mission to provide homes for children in need, the importance of keeping siblings together, and the challenges faced in the child welfare system. The conversation highlights the critical role of community support, volunteerism, and the intersection of legal and child welfare systems in ensuring the well-being of at-risk children.

Takeaways

• Children in Crisis provides essential support for at-risk children.
• Keeping siblings together is crucial for emotional stability.
• Community involvement is vital for the success of child welfare programs.
• Trauma can have long-lasting effects on children's health and well-being.
• The legal system plays a significant role in child welfare cases.
• Volunteering can make a substantial difference in children's lives.
• Children in Crisis operates a neighborhood designed to feel like home.
• The organization relies heavily on community donations and support.
• Maintaining a normal environment helps children cope with trauma.
• Awareness and education about child welfare issues are essential for community support.

• "It takes a village to raise children."
• "Pressure is a privilege."
• "Every child deserves a loving home."

In this episode, Florida family law attorney, Gerard Virga interviews Asha Maharaj-Lucas, a seasoned paralegal with 30 years of experience. Asha shares her journey in the paralegal profession, her involvement with the Paralegal Association of Florida, and the importance of mentorship in the legal field. They discuss the challenges faced by paralegals, the impact of COVID-19 on the profession, and the need for personal connections in a digital age. Asha emphasizes the value of teamwork between paralegals and attorneys, and the importance of adapting to changes in the legal landscape. In this conversation, Gerard Virga and Asha discuss the evolving role of paralegals in the legal profession, emphasizing the importance of investing in future paralegals, adapting to technological advancements, and maintaining the human element in law. They also touch on the challenges of balancing work and family life, the significance of mental health in the legal field, and the need for community building through professional associations.

Takeaways

• Asha has been a paralegal for 30 years and loves her profession.
• The Paralegal Association of Florida plays a crucial role in supporting paralegals.
• Mentorship is vital for the growth of new paralegals.
• In-person networking is essential in today's digital world.
• Paralegals are the backbone of the legal profession.
• COVID-19 has changed the way paralegals operate.
• Building relationships with attorneys and judges is important.
• New paralegals should learn from seasoned professionals.
• The legal field is facing challenges in attracting new paralegals.
• Teamwork between paralegals and attorneys enhances legal practice. Investing in paralegals is a long-term commitment.
• Technology is rapidly changing the legal landscape.
• Paralegals will need to adapt to AI and new software.
• Human interaction remains crucial in legal practice.
• Work-life balance is essential for legal professionals.
• Mental health awareness is growing in the legal field.
• Networking and community are vital for paralegals.
• Paralegals should be seen as integral team members.
• Empowering paralegals benefits the entire legal team.
• Professional associations provide valuable support and resources.