CVU Supports AB 1656
Strengthening Stability for Survivors: Why AB 1656 Matters
California continues to face the harsh reality of human trafficking and exploitation. Behind every case is a victim navigating not only trauma, but also a justice system that can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar.
Assembly Bill 1656 (Davies) takes a focused, practical step toward improving how these cases are handled.
What AB 1656 Does
AB 1656 updates California law to recognize human trafficking, sexual exploitation of a child, and extortion as qualifying cases for a limited scheduling accommodation in court.
Specifically, the bill allows for a short continuance of up to 10 court days when the assigned prosecutor is engaged in another proceeding. This ensures that the same prosecutor can remain on the case during critical stages of prosecution.
This is not an open-ended delay. It is a narrowly defined, controlled adjustment designed to preserve continuity in complex and sensitive cases.
Why Continuity Matters for Victims
Human trafficking cases are not like other criminal cases.
Survivors often experience:
Psychological manipulation and coercion
Fear of retaliation against themselves or their families
Deep mistrust of authority
Trauma that makes participation in legal proceedings extremely difficult
Building trust between a survivor and a prosecutor takes time. It is not automatic, and it is not easily replaced.
When that relationship is disrupted by a last-minute substitution of counsel, it can have real consequences. Survivors may feel destabilized, anxious, or unwilling to continue participating. In some cases, that disruption can directly impact the strength of the case.
For minors and victims of sexual exploitation, that stability is even more critical.
Aligning the Law With Reality
California law already allows limited flexibility for certain serious offenses when scheduling conflicts arise. AB 1656 simply extends that same recognition to human trafficking and related crimes.
This change reflects what prosecutors and victim advocates already know: these cases require consistency, care, and a trauma-informed approach.
By allowing a brief, structured continuance, the bill supports:
Stronger victim participation
More effective prosecution
A more stable and respectful experience for survivors
A Victim-Centered Approach to Justice
For more than four decades, Crime Victims United has worked alongside victims and families across California. One thing remains clear: justice is not just about outcomes, but about the process victims must endure to get there.
AB 1656 reinforces the idea that effective prosecution and victim-centered justice are not competing priorities. They are interconnected.
Providing continuity in the courtroom is a small but meaningful step toward a system that recognizes the needs of those it serves.
Support AB 1656
AB 1656 is a targeted, reasonable measure that strengthens both accountability and compassion within the justice system.
Crime Victims United is proud to support this legislation and encourages lawmakers to vote AYE.