Lawyers map
>418
experienced lawyers
Filter by
28 Feb, 2024 by Jamison shekter
Williams & Associates are extremely good court reporters and move heaven and earth to work with parties who need court reporting services. I couldn't recommend them enough.
Read more
06 Oct, 2023 by El pidio cortes
22 Jul, 2021 by Vincent b higgins
Sound legal team, with experience!
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Donna duran
04 Sep, 2023 by Dmitry retunski
I came to And Justice Law four years after divorce seeking help in child custody. They were very patient with me, listened to my issues, and explained to me my options. Melanie and Todd treated me with great kindness and it felt like we knew each other for years. They took my case and walked me through every step of the legal process, keeping in mind the best interest of the kids. The communication was fast and respectful. And Justice Law team worked my case without delays and kept me updated. Melanie, Todd, and Olivia are professional, honest, and ethical people. They have reasonable rates and are well worth the investment. I greatly appreciate their help and highly recommend their services. Thank you Melanie, Todd, and Olivia.
Read more
31 Aug, 2023 by Jake sarno
Word's alone cannot express the gratitude I have for these folks. When you walk thru their door you are instantly treated like family. Melanie is truly a force to be reckoned with. That coupled with the fact that Todd does a fantastic job at dumbing it down for guys like me. They took my case and were extremely real with me. They explained the in's and out's of what I was facing and never left a question unanswered. Olivia was very helpful as well. She handled all of my questions with professionalism and respect. If you're looking for a law firm that truly stands behind you these are the folks you need in your corner.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer cohen
In my 41 years on this planet, I have never needed an attorney. I made the initial mistake of hiring another attorney in the early stages of my case. It quickly became clear I needed a new team, and I all but barged into their office during their lunch break. It was the best decision I ever made.
When the time came for my divorce to protect my assets, custody, and really, my livelihood, I cannot say enough about this team. Nathan Frazier is a highly intelligent, compassionate and decent human that truly cares about his clients. I was emotionally distraught during my divorce with custody case and Nathan truly came through. Laurie and Lorrie are extremely efficient and know their stuff. The combination of a paralegal that's ON it, a kick a** attorney that is well respected and a divorce financial expert in Lorrie only sets you up for success. It was clear watching negotiations that I had the right team behind me.
It became very clear, VERY fast that having a respected legal team in the community makes all the difference. Despite the craziness of my case, they were cool, calm and collected every step of the way. What struck me about this team was how they connect on a human level - they truly saw me for the person that I am and that resonated in the courts.
I got everything I asked for and more - If it wasn't for this team, I don't know where I'd be right now.
Thank you Thank you Thank you!!!
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Alma sandoval
I am extremely pleased with the service of Batley Family law; everyone is friendly, courteous and specifically knowledgeable about the law. I live out of the state and it was difficult to decide who to trust with my child support issue, I made the right choice. Thank you to the entire staff for always keeping me informed throughout the process.
Si usted necesita un abogado para problema de familia legal, como el mantenimiento de su(s) hijo(s) la firma de Batley Family law es la indicada!
Read more
04 Apr, 2024 by Paul searcy
20 May, 2024 by Gina harvey
I would like share my experience was great Jacob Candelaria law my situation was very unique and I was treated with utmost respect and kindness while being professional helping me do something I could not do for myself. I would like to say that I recommend Jacob when needing good representation
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Jake osborn
Incredible team, fantastic representation. I hope I don't need Candelaria Law's services again, but I wouldn't hesitate to work with them again.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Marylou sanchez
I looked for an attorney for weeks with no luck before reaching out to Jacob’s law firm. Jacob took my case with confidence and was able to help me settle a case no one wanted to take on. I definitely would recommend Jacob and his team.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Michael kare
Best law firm in town! Professional. Prompt. And they know their stuff. Everything you want from a law firm.
Read more
14 May, 2024 by Joyce weber
Mr Dominguez and Kelley did a wonderful job handling my grandfather’s case and getting him the best settlements possible for both himself and the loss of my grandmother. We are both grateful for their patience, expertise and professionalism during this difficult time. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone in need of a car accident or personal injury attorney.
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by Cathleen lucero
Mr. Dominguez And Kathy were Awesome. Thank you for the remarkable job you did on my Case.
Richard
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Bobby bustillos
They were polite and professional.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Esteban moreno
Hello. I had a very unpleasant experience with Will Jenkins. Just because he passed the BAR and is well-versed in legal and lawyer jargon does not give him the right to bully me or speak to me in a disrespectful fashion.
I text him with a few qus re: personal property on a transaction he was overseeing and he started throwing words out like "breach of contract allows us to void the contract", "im still allowing you to pick it up at this point", and "pick it up at this time or im selling it to someone else...
All because i had concerns and asked a few simple questions.
I then went in to make a final pymt. I told him i didnt appreciate him being disrespectful and bullying me prior in those texts and that id like to speak to the Senior Partner to express my concerns.
He says "you bullied a woman", "im a partner, the senior partner is not available, you can talk to me"
"Hes going to side with me anyways"
I told him ill never do business here nor will i refer anyone.
The cherry on top-- he proceeds to say:
" WHO CARES; WE'LL BE SUCCESSFUL ANYWAY"
lol what kind of legitimate, professional law firm does business like that? Do they really engage the community and perspective clients like that?
I was blown away. I even emailed the Senior Partner. He never responded. I guess he did side with him...
Oh well. Just wanted to share my experience. Dont come here...
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Rosalba haro
Un fraude total esta abogada Marlo Aragón ,se le contrató para un caso de custodia y manutención desde el estado de AZ ,se le pagó un anticipo de 2000 dlls y nunca más se a concretado nada del caso esto desde el mes de enero 2024 ahora estamos en agosto 2024 la Sra abogada no contesta el tel ,email , textos o WhatsApp el cual eliminó……supongo que esto es fraude un robo lo cual buscaremos ayuda en las autoridades correspondientes para solucionar este caso …No la recomiendo
Read more
06 Jul, 2024 by Monica lujan
This Law Firm is by far the best civil attorney’s I could ever imagine They care about their clients without bias and are genuinely concerned for your rights being violated. They make sure that those who have abused their authority and make them responsible for their actions. I am so grateful for their courage and commitment to protect our civil rights.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Jeremy sawvel
Adam flores is great to work with 100% satisfied with his results.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Samantha sawvel
Such a pleasure to work with Adam and his team he showed compassion and integrity toward us during a very trying time. We appreciate the services he provided us and all the professionalism and communication during and after recovery in our case. I would recommend his services to all family and friends in the future.
Read more
06 Jul, 2024 by Monica lujan
This Law Firm is by far the best civil attorney’s I could ever imagine They care about their clients without bias and are genuinely concerned for your rights being violated. They make sure that those who have abused their authority and make them responsible for their actions. I am so grateful for their courage and commitment to protect our civil rights.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Jeremy sawvel
Adam flores is great to work with 100% satisfied with his results.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Samantha sawvel
Such a pleasure to work with Adam and his team he showed compassion and integrity toward us during a very trying time. We appreciate the services he provided us and all the professionalism and communication during and after recovery in our case. I would recommend his services to all family and friends in the future.
Read more
06 Jul, 2024 by Monica lujan
This Law Firm is by far the best civil attorney’s I could ever imagine They care about their clients without bias and are genuinely concerned for your rights being violated. They make sure that those who have abused their authority and make them responsible for their actions. I am so grateful for their courage and commitment to protect our civil rights.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Jeremy sawvel
Adam flores is great to work with 100% satisfied with his results.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Samantha sawvel
Such a pleasure to work with Adam and his team he showed compassion and integrity toward us during a very trying time. We appreciate the services he provided us and all the professionalism and communication during and after recovery in our case. I would recommend his services to all family and friends in the future.
Read more
06 Jul, 2024 by Monica lujan
This Law Firm is by far the best civil attorney’s I could ever imagine They care about their clients without bias and are genuinely concerned for your rights being violated. They make sure that those who have abused their authority and make them responsible for their actions. I am so grateful for their courage and commitment to protect our civil rights.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Jeremy sawvel
Adam flores is great to work with 100% satisfied with his results.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Samantha sawvel
Such a pleasure to work with Adam and his team he showed compassion and integrity toward us during a very trying time. We appreciate the services he provided us and all the professionalism and communication during and after recovery in our case. I would recommend his services to all family and friends in the future.
Read more
06 Jul, 2024 by Monica lujan
This Law Firm is by far the best civil attorney’s I could ever imagine They care about their clients without bias and are genuinely concerned for your rights being violated. They make sure that those who have abused their authority and make them responsible for their actions. I am so grateful for their courage and commitment to protect our civil rights.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Jeremy sawvel
Adam flores is great to work with 100% satisfied with his results.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Samantha sawvel
Such a pleasure to work with Adam and his team he showed compassion and integrity toward us during a very trying time. We appreciate the services he provided us and all the professionalism and communication during and after recovery in our case. I would recommend his services to all family and friends in the future.
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Patricia smith
Nicole help us during a very difficult time in our lives. We could never thank her in her including Mildred and her staff.The Smiths
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Amanda garza
He doesn't return phone calls!!!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Gabriella rivas
07 Oct, 2024 by Patricia smith
Nicole help us during a very difficult time in our lives. We could never thank her in her including Mildred and her staff.The Smiths
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Amanda garza
He doesn't return phone calls!!!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Gabriella rivas
07 Oct, 2024 by Patricia smith
Nicole help us during a very difficult time in our lives. We could never thank her in her including Mildred and her staff.The Smiths
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Amanda garza
He doesn't return phone calls!!!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Gabriella rivas
21 Dec, 2023 by Duhigg & berlin, p.a.
09 Oct, 2023 by Roxanne cardenas
09 Feb, 2023 by Tiago atwi
Was this firm once named Hamlin, Hamlin & McGill?
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Duhigg & berlin, p.a.
09 Oct, 2023 by Roxanne cardenas
09 Feb, 2023 by Tiago atwi
Was this firm once named Hamlin, Hamlin & McGill?
Read more
27 Aug, 2023 by Kenny butler
22 Mar, 2023 by Damian lara
Christopher P. Muirhead is the best bond counselor I've ever worked with.
Read more
15 Feb, 2022 by Paul martinez
Amazing attorneys and staff.
Professional etiquette with a wealth of knowledge.
Read more
20 Feb, 2024 by John shaw
You are inconsiderate and your foreword about helping ppl is a joke
..I wouldn't recommend you to over see a dinner table setting...do not hire
Read more
11 Sep, 2022 by Hamza naveed
12 Sep, 2021 by Julie romero
08 Oct, 2021 by Lynn c
I engaged Betsy Salcedo and Gregory Gahan to help with two cases. Betsy Salcedo was the presiding attorney. We had meetings, emails and discussions for how my case would be handled. Gregory Gahan was my court representative.
He was completely unprepared for my hearing despite all of my own preparations which cost me a lot of time and money. I did a ton of leg work for him.
Gregory Gahan waited until the last minute to prepare for my hearing and then completely blew everything despite Betsy Salcedo's assurance that they were in fact prepared.
Betsy Salcedo and Gregory Gahan will drain your retainer and finances and then when it is time to represent you in court, completely fail.
Behind my back and without my permission Gregory Gahan asked the opposing party for a Motion for Continuance on the day of the hearing....after knowing with Covid and the death of the Presiding Judge I had eagerly awaited this hearing for 6 long months.
I ended up being pigeon holed into an agreement that I was sorely disappointed in. If Betsy Salcedo and or Gregory Gahan blew your case, please report them to the NM State Bar and the BBB. Post your story, be heard.
Betsy Salcedo and Gregory Gahan are scam artists. They should not be practicing law. If that is not enough, Betsy Salcedo is completely disrespectful. Betsy Salcedo has a bad habit of talking over people. Betsy Salcedo is arrogant and will insult you and demean you.
I truly wish I never met Betsy Salcedo or Gregory Gahan. They have drained my bank account and my time. They completely botched my court case, they failed to defend me as promised.
Why on earth would a lawyer who is hired in good faith wait until the day before the hearing to get the hearing audio. Why would a lawyer go behind a client's back and ask for a Motion that a client had not approved. Furthermore, Gregory Gahan did not copy me on the email he sent the opposing party.
When I asked Betsy Salcedo and Gregory Gahan to please send me a copy of the email requesting a Motion for Continuance which I did not approve they refused. I made this request 3 times.
I finally had to terminate both of these lawyers. I guarantee they will overcharge me even though they failed to do their job.
Read more
08 Aug, 2021 by Luis monroy
14 Dec, 2020 by Blank screen
LICENSE IS INACTIVE. Worst attorney ever! The things you did on my case Greg was unethical! And you know exactly what unethical things I'm talking about I should have turned you in. Research this attorney. He has had big problems of his own. I wouldn't waste my money. Failure. How does an attorney with 20 plus years experience only have 3 reviews? Please. Its because he is a horrible attorney. Find another attorney. Many more better attorneys out there. Go get yourself one. Greg forgets his lack of abilities have life long affects on people. Find an attorney who cares about you. They are out there.
Read more
27 Feb, 2024 by Amber
I am so grateful that George Heidke took my case. He was with me every step of the way. He has an innate ability to show compassion and be a tenacious attorney simultaneously. I felt like my case was his top priority. I was notified of every detail and he presented the options available in a succinct manner. He is also a great human. I highly recommend his services.
Read more
29 Nov, 2023 by Daniel
Mr. Heidke represented me in a dispute against the Department of Workforce Solutions (DWS). He reviewed my case very efficiently and quickly provided me with the appropriate guidance. He is very knowledgeable in this field. I won my case with his guidance. I highly recommend him.
Read more
22 Jul, 2022 by Sara
Mr. Heidke represented me in an employment case against the Department of Workforce Solutions and proved that his knowledge of employment law is top notch. I'm grateful for his representation and attention to detail. We won!
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Yolanda valdez
28 Aug, 2024 by Sofia ellis
I had an exceptional experience with this firm. The team is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about their clients. From the very beginning, they were responsive and professional. I felt supported and confident that I was in good hands throughout the entire process. I highly recommend the Law Offices of Erika E. Anderson. They really go above and beyond for their clients!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Shirley saccoccia
11 Oct, 2024 by Yolanda valdez
28 Aug, 2024 by Sofia ellis
I had an exceptional experience with this firm. The team is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about their clients. From the very beginning, they were responsive and professional. I felt supported and confident that I was in good hands throughout the entire process. I highly recommend the Law Offices of Erika E. Anderson. They really go above and beyond for their clients!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Shirley saccoccia
30 Jul, 2024 by Al king
Joe Wiseman is the most disappointing attorney I have ever encountered. He handled a domestic case for me and used various tactics to increase billable hours. I found his approach highly unethical and felt deceived.
Read more
24 Apr, 2024 by Jolene herron
Thank you for all of your help!
Read more
27 Nov, 2023 by Amy bellomo
Due to my own divorce and family challenges, I have needed to navigate the family court system for the past 12 years. Initially, I worked with multiple lawyers in both collaborative and non-collaborative divorce settings in some of the largest offices in town who were professional and responsive but simply weren’t up to the challenge, leading to painful and very costly setbacks. I needed better legal support quickly and a friend referred me to Joe after he had transformed a challenging situation for her family.
Working with Joe allowed me to finally breathe easier as I faced court, knowing I had an expert on my side who cared and worked hard for the best possible outcomes. In the following years, numerous friends and acquaintances also went though divorces and their experiences were the same: Joe told them the truth, worked tirelessly, got the best outcomes possible, and protected them and their children, helping them feel safe throughout the process.
After all of this, I can say unequivocally that Joe Wiseman is the best family law attorney in town. As a father himself and a guardian ad litem, he naturally puts the needs of children first. And as a brilliant strategist who understands the ins and outs of family law and our legal environment, he knows how to support, strategize, and achieve the best possible outcomes. Other attorneys may talk a good game, but Joe will tell you the truth straight up and you can trust that his instincts and strategy are on target every time.
No matter how many challenges come my way due to my own situation, I know Joe has my back, and will work tirelessly to protect my child and our wellbeing. I trust him implicitly. Going through divorce and family court is hard. I would wish every family going through this to find their way to Joe first to save themselves from the cost- both financially and personally- of working with anyone else. We are so fortunate to have Joe and his team here in Albuquerque. His care, skill, strategy, and knowledge have transformed our situation and that of everyone I know who has worked with him. My life and my child’s life are better now, thanks to Joe.
Read more
29 Dec, 2023 by Karl miller
Amazing Law Firm! Vickie has been great to us from day one. We're new to the state and needed to update our Estate Planning documents...I called many firms, few replied. Wilcox, Myers and Jones is the only one that got back to us with solutions. Highly recommend.
Read more
07 Jan, 2023 by Kelly smyer
My husband and I have been clients of Wilcox & Myers for many years. We have placed our trust in Vickie and Jeff and their employees because they are professional, courteous, and have a reputation for being exceptionally qualified estate planning attorneys. We know that our estate is protected now and in to the future because of their diligence. I find their staff to be very knowledgeable, courteous, and they communicate thoroughly to clients what is needed from them throughout the planning process. Wilcox & Myers has earned their extraordinary reputation in the community.
Read more
02 Jan, 2023 by Carol sinor
Horrible service, poor communication and a very rude receptionist. I made an appointment months ago, due to their long wait time, and was never asked if we were married. Today, a day before the appointment, I volunteered that information and was told their office policy is that they will not see a couple jointly unless they are married. We have been together 30 years, how ridiculous. Also if this is such a stong policy, Vanessa should ask this question of all couples when appointments are initially made, especially considering their wait time of months. Now, we have to find someone else and all this time was wasted. Vanessa was also rude, unapologetic and defensive, putting the blame on me instead of her failure to collect critical information like this up front since it is their "office policy." Lastly when I asked to have Ms. Wilcox call me back, Vanessa said, in so many words that Vickie was too busy. Horrible experience with this company.
Read more
23 Jun, 2024 by Ray lopez
DON IS A REALLY GOOD ATTORNY HELPED ME WITH A CIVAL LAWSUILT AND WORKED OUT BETTER THEN WHAT I EXPECTED ALSO WORKED WITH ME ON PRICE IS REALLY FAIR
Read more
12 May, 2024 by Gayle garcia
Don't believe I received or was put in touch with anybody to help me with my issue
Read more
22 May, 2023 by Rami benayad-cherif
Helpful and responsive.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Anna e
I spoke with Vanessa this morning and although this office was unable to assist with my particular situation, she was extremely helpful and gave me a list of resources. Very compassionate and professional!
Read more
28 Sep, 2023 by Melissa proctor dejavu
I was able to get information for legal aid, a food box and liheap information. I was injured on the job and was not accommodated for months. I finally had to resign due to personal reasons due to not being able to run from or after residents for their safety and mine.
Read more
26 Apr, 2023 by ʧღæ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦cenã¡áƒ¦æ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦ê§‚
My best advise is to just avoid all these ORGS. They employ attorneys and advocates who are extremely overt/covert abusive, dismissive and with zero ethics and integrity. They receive donations and federal money to do absolutely nothing to help anyone and this goes for the NMDRNM, Legal Aide and the State Bar of New Mexico. If you have a discrimination or civil rights complaint, then just do it yourself and submit it directly to them instead.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Anna e
I spoke with Vanessa this morning and although this office was unable to assist with my particular situation, she was extremely helpful and gave me a list of resources. Very compassionate and professional!
Read more
28 Sep, 2023 by Melissa proctor dejavu
I was able to get information for legal aid, a food box and liheap information. I was injured on the job and was not accommodated for months. I finally had to resign due to personal reasons due to not being able to run from or after residents for their safety and mine.
Read more
26 Apr, 2023 by ʧღæ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦cenã¡áƒ¦æ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦ê§‚
My best advise is to just avoid all these ORGS. They employ attorneys and advocates who are extremely overt/covert abusive, dismissive and with zero ethics and integrity. They receive donations and federal money to do absolutely nothing to help anyone and this goes for the NMDRNM, Legal Aide and the State Bar of New Mexico. If you have a discrimination or civil rights complaint, then just do it yourself and submit it directly to them instead.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Anna e
I spoke with Vanessa this morning and although this office was unable to assist with my particular situation, she was extremely helpful and gave me a list of resources. Very compassionate and professional!
Read more
28 Sep, 2023 by Melissa proctor dejavu
I was able to get information for legal aid, a food box and liheap information. I was injured on the job and was not accommodated for months. I finally had to resign due to personal reasons due to not being able to run from or after residents for their safety and mine.
Read more
26 Apr, 2023 by ʧღæ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦cenã¡áƒ¦æ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦ê§‚
My best advise is to just avoid all these ORGS. They employ attorneys and advocates who are extremely overt/covert abusive, dismissive and with zero ethics and integrity. They receive donations and federal money to do absolutely nothing to help anyone and this goes for the NMDRNM, Legal Aide and the State Bar of New Mexico. If you have a discrimination or civil rights complaint, then just do it yourself and submit it directly to them instead.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Anna e
I spoke with Vanessa this morning and although this office was unable to assist with my particular situation, she was extremely helpful and gave me a list of resources. Very compassionate and professional!
Read more
28 Sep, 2023 by Melissa proctor dejavu
I was able to get information for legal aid, a food box and liheap information. I was injured on the job and was not accommodated for months. I finally had to resign due to personal reasons due to not being able to run from or after residents for their safety and mine.
Read more
26 Apr, 2023 by ʧღæ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦cenã¡áƒ¦æ¸ìµì¡óœìµì¨ì„æ·áƒ¦ê§‚
My best advise is to just avoid all these ORGS. They employ attorneys and advocates who are extremely overt/covert abusive, dismissive and with zero ethics and integrity. They receive donations and federal money to do absolutely nothing to help anyone and this goes for the NMDRNM, Legal Aide and the State Bar of New Mexico. If you have a discrimination or civil rights complaint, then just do it yourself and submit it directly to them instead.
Read more
23 Dec, 2021 by Jeffrey lusk
12 Nov, 2021 by Dan permoda
So far so good! Very professional and helpful
Read more
13 May, 2021 by The costley family
Filed bankruptcy in 2019 due to the overwhelming bills piling up including overpayment in food stamps and other miscellaneous debt collectors, we challenged all these things even the state of New Mexico and we won they didn’t show up with any proof of anything that we owe them and we got to get that off our credit report. Now almost 2 years later we are rebuilding our credit and letting it work for us to buy our first home! Thank you so much Chris Trammel
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Civil Rights Lawyer Can Do for You
A civil rights lawyer focuses on protecting individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by government authorities, employers, or private organizations. These lawyers specialize in cases involving discrimination, police misconduct, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws, such as the Civil Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Fair Housing Act.
Whether you've been discriminated against due to race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics, or you believe your civil rights have been violated by a government entity, a civil rights lawyer can help you seek justice, hold wrongdoers accountable, and secure compensation for any harm you've suffered.
When Should I Hire a Civil Rights Lawyer?
You should hire a civil rights lawyer when your constitutional rights or other protected rights have been violated, and you need legal assistance to seek justice. Some key situations in which you may need a civil rights lawyer include:
- Employment discrimination: If you have faced discrimination at work based on race, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability, a civil rights lawyer can help you file claims under laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Police misconduct or brutality: If you were the victim of police brutality, unlawful arrest, racial profiling, or other forms of misconduct, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit for violations of your Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
- Freedom of speech or assembly violations: If your First Amendment rights to free speech or peaceful assembly have been restricted by the government, a civil rights lawyer can represent you in challenging the violation.
- Housing discrimination: If you’ve been denied housing or faced unfair treatment due to your race, ethnicity, gender, or disability, a lawyer can help you file a complaint under the Fair Housing Act.
- Voter rights violations: If you believe your right to vote has been unfairly suppressed or you’ve faced discrimination in the voting process, a civil rights lawyer can help you fight for your rights.
- Disability rights violations: If you’ve faced discrimination in accessing public spaces, employment, or services due to a disability, a lawyer can help enforce your rights under the ADA.
- LGBTQ+ rights violations: If you've experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or public services, a civil rights lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
Hiring a lawyer early on can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case to protect your rights.
What Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Do?
A civil rights lawyer provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals whose rights have been violated. Their work can include:
- Filing lawsuits: A civil rights lawyer can represent you in court by filing lawsuits against individuals, businesses, or government entities that violated your rights.
- Advocating for policy changes: Civil rights lawyers often engage in advocacy work, pushing for reforms to laws and policies that infringe upon people's rights.
- Representing clients in discrimination claims: These lawyers help clients file claims with federal or state agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Negotiating settlements: In many cases, civil rights lawyers work to negotiate settlements for their clients before a case goes to trial, securing compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, or legal fees.
- Defending freedom of expression: Lawyers may represent clients whose rights to free speech, assembly, or protest were violated by government restrictions or other actions.
- Handling appeals: If your civil rights case has been decided but you wish to appeal the ruling, a civil rights lawyer can help you through the appeals process.
How Are Civil Rights Lawyers Paid?
Civil rights lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Contingency fee: Many civil rights lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage (usually 25% to 40%) of the settlement or damages awarded.
- Hourly rate: For cases that require extensive legal research or litigation, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Pro bono or sliding scale: Some civil rights lawyers or organizations may work on a pro bono (free) basis or use a sliding fee scale for clients who cannot afford typical legal fees.
- Flat fee: In specific cases, a lawyer may charge a flat fee for services like drafting legal documents or filing a complaint.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a civil rights lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal issue. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fee cases: For cases taken on a contingency basis, the lawyer’s fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or judgment awarded.
- Hourly rates: Many civil rights lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For straightforward legal tasks, such as filing a complaint with a government agency or drafting legal documents, flat fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Pro bono work: Some civil rights lawyers or nonprofit organizations provide free legal representation in certain cases involving important constitutional or civil rights issues.
Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation to understand the financial commitment involved.
Top Questions to Ask a Civil Rights Lawyer
Before hiring a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with civil rights cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s employment discrimination, police misconduct, or First Amendment violations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case. -
What is the likelihood of success for my case?
Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues. -
What is the timeline for resolving my case?
While exact timelines can vary, ask for an estimate of how long your case may take, from filing to resolution. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may work on parts of your case, so it’s important to know who will handle your legal matter directly.
How to Check the Credibility of a Civil Rights Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable civil rights lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for specific civil rights experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in civil rights law and have a history of handling cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience with civil rights cases.
- Check for advocacy or nonprofit work: Lawyers involved with civil rights organizations, such as the ACLU or NAACP Legal Defense Fund, may have a strong reputation in the civil rights legal community.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A detailed account of the violation: Provide a written summary of the events, including dates, times, and any people involved in the violation of your rights.
- Documentation and evidence: Bring any supporting documentation, such as emails, letters, photos, or video footage that may help prove the violation of your rights.
- Records of complaints or reports: If you’ve filed complaints with a government agency or reported the violation, bring copies of those documents.
- List of questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes of your case.
- Information on damages or harm: Be prepared to discuss the harm you’ve suffered due to the violation, such as emotional distress, financial loss, or physical injury.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
