California § 236.21

Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 236.21, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 236.21.

(a) (1) A victim of human trafficking or abuse, as defined in Section 236.1 of this code or Section 1038.2 of the Evidence Code, has the right to have a human trafficking advocate and a support person of the victim’s choosing present at an interview by a law enforcement authority, prosecutor, or the suspect’s defense attorney. The law enforcement officer or prosecutor may exclude the support person from the interview if the law enforcement officer or prosecutor believes that the support person’s presence would be detrimental to the process. (2) Prior to being present at an interview conducted by a law enforcement authority, prosecutor, or the suspect’s defense attorney, a human trafficking advocate shall advise the victim of applicable limitations on the confidentiality of communications between the victim and the human trafficking advocate. (3) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: (A) “Human trafficking advocate” means a person employed by an organization specified in Section 1038.2 of the Evidence Code. (B) “Support person” means a family member or friend of the survivor and does not include the human trafficking advocate. (b) (1) Prior to the commencement of the initial interview by a law enforcement authority or a prosecutor pertaining to a criminal action arising out of a human trafficking incident, a victim of human trafficking or abuse, as defined in Section 236.1 of this code or Section 1038.2 of the Evidence Code, shall be notified orally or in writing by the attending law enforcement authority or prosecutor that the victim has the right to have a human trafficking advocate and a support person of the victim’s choosing present at the interview. (2) At the time the victim is advised of their rights under paragraph (1), the attending law enforcement authority or prosecutor shall also advise the victim of the right to have a human trafficking advocate and a support person present at an interview by the suspect’s defense attorney or investigators or agents employed by the suspect’s defense attorney. (3) This subdivision applies to investigators and agents employed or retained by law enforcement or the prosecutor. (c) An initial investigation by law enforcement to determine whether a crime has been committed and the identity of the suspects does not constitute a law enforcement interview for purposes of this section.

Frequently Asked Questions About California § 236.21

What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 236.21 cover?

Section 236.21 is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. 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 California § 236.21?

A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 236.21" (California). 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 California law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.

How does California § 236.21 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California 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 California.