​Social Development and Family Services Donna Cox recently stated that citizens must acknowledge that “human trafficking is both a serious crime and a public health issue.” The prevalence of human trafficking in T&T is often reflected in our local news stories. Most recently a Venezuelan man was charged with a series of human trafficking related offences after he was arrested by police in Santa Flora, Trinidad. But what exactly is human trafficking? Where is it likely to happen? Who are the most vulnerable to this kind of crime? And what are the legal consequences of trafficking persons in T&T? 

​If a person feels unsafe or threatened by another person, he or she can seek the relief of a protection order. A protection order also known as a restraining order is a court document which prohibits the respondent (the person against whom the protection order is being made) from engaging in abusive behaviour of any type towards the victim. But how does a person get a protection order in Trinidad and Tobago? Who can apply for one? How long can a protection order last?

Here are 7 important things you should know about protection orders in Trinidad and Tobago:

We have all seen and heard the controversy revolving around the police conducting searches in and on citizen's vehicles and property. Do the police have a right to do such searches? What are citizen's rights in regard to this issue? To clear the air, let's look at some of the powers given to the police to conduct searches in T&T.

If a person assaults, obstructs or resists a police officer in the execution of his duties, that person can be found guilty of a criminal offence.

​Being persistently harassed by someone can be psychologically damaging. The effects of harassment on a victim can range from simple irritation to persistent anxiety and it can even lead to extreme depression. So what can a person do if he/she is being harassed by someone?

​It is imperative that we protect all children from abuse and ensure that the rights of all children are upheld.

​Some of us have been in situations where we were inappropriately touched or grabbed by someone and felt violated. It may have happened while at work or while out at a party with friends or even done by someone we thought could be trusted. So what exactly is indecent assault and what are the consequences one can face if guilty in T&T?

Under the Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago, every person who is arrested or detained has certain rights.

​Animal cruelty is the abuse toward or neglect of an animal. It happens to all different types of animals and in every corner of the world. It is also preventable and unnecessary. In Trinidad and Tobago there are laws to protect our furry pals with stiff (appropriate) penalties. 

A marriage or common law relationship may start with a happy blissful beginning but it may become abusive over time. What if the wife is being forced to have sexual intercourse with her husband - can she do something about it?  Is it against the law?