Alabama § 13A-6-157 - Civil Action by Victims; Venue; Relief Awarded.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 13A-6-157 — Civil Action by Victims; Venue; Relief Awarded., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13A-6-157. Civil Action by Victims; Venue; Relief Awarded.
(a) An individual who is a victim of human trafficking may bring a civil action in the appropriate state court.
(b) Venue for any action brought under this section shall be in the county in which the offense was committed or in any other county into or through which the person upon whom it was committed may have been carried in the commission of the offense. If venue is proper in more than one county, venue shall be in either county.
(c) The court may award actual damages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, injunctive relief, and any other appropriate relief. A prevailing plaintiff shall also be awarded attorney’s fees and costs. Treble damages shall be awarded on proof of actual damages where defendant’s acts were willful and malicious.
(d) The court shall award a prevailing plaintiff attorney’s fees and costs.
(e) Upon commencement of any action brought under this section, the clerk of the court shall mail a copy of the complaint or other initial pleading to the office of the Attorney General and, upon entry of any injunction, judgment, or decree in the action, shall mail a copy of the injunction, judgment, or decree to the office of the Attorney General.
(f) This section does not preclude any other remedy available to the victim under federal law or the laws of this state.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 13A-6-157
What does Code of Alabama § 13A-6-157 cover?
Section 13A-6-157 ("Civil Action by Victims; Venue; Relief Awarded.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 13A-6-157?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 13A-6-157" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 13A-6-157 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.