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07 Mar, 2011 by John
Mike has an extensive real estate background and advised us in waterfront permit appeals and processing. Mike has also helped us with family matters involving defense of our juvenile son. He speaks in understandable language with a knack for simplifying complex legal concerns. In each case our decisions were favorable, and more importantly, the decisions were exactly what Michael told us to expect.
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18 Feb, 2011 by Johannes
Have worked with Mr. Leahy on quite a few instances. From dealing with MD lemon law, to MD law enforcement (speeding tickets) to MD real estate questions/issues. In any of these instances has Michael Leahy managed to exceed expectations. I always look forward working with him on (m)any instances..
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12 Jul, 2023 by Jeff callaway
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15 Nov, 2018 by Krista
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10 Jun, 2017 by Jon
Phil Culpepper is an excellent litigator. My case was garbage but Phil's quick wit and dynamic arguments convinced the judge that my opponent had the weaker case against me and it was tossed out of court after Phil argued for about 10 minutes.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jaylord lao
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29 May, 2024 by Ashley bruno
I have to say after just finishing a very long 2 year, drug out divorce from the other side I was more than Blessed to have Kathleen there by my side the entire way. Yes she’s a very busy woman that knows the laws and what’s important and not important. She won’t waste your time on the fluff or the distractions from the opponents. We dealt with a very overbearing other side and she never wavered me in the wrong direction. Is she human, yes and she deals with so many cases at once. She has a job to do and she does it well. I was always impressed that she could remember my case and how to prepare me for it. I think as an individual fighting for your own case, in my case I was fighting for my kids, that was my personal drive and knew I had to stay focused on my case and give her as much detail as I could that would help her fight for me. Surprisingly though her and her team found out things I hadn’t even known about my husband. Pretty shocking but proof that’s she’s always working diligently even behind the scenes as busy as she is. Personally I think the world of Kathleen as a person because she has shown me compassion and shared parts of her life with me that she may never know have changed my heart. Trust her through the process, that’s why we pay the money we do is because she’s dealt with the law for so long. I can’t say that it’s an easy ride dealing with the courts and a raging ex but ultimately she listened to me and fought with me for my kids and I got what was best for them and they are doing fantastic. Huge thank you to Kathleen and her team for always being there!!!
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28 May, 2024 by William king
Kathleen did a great job with my criminal cases. She’s listened to me. And answered my questions. She paid attention to everything I said. And she helped me though the process. If I ever need to hire an attorney again , she will be the first one I call !
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01 Jul, 2024 by George appiah sarfo
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30 Apr, 2024 by Sonya j s.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Monika fuller
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05 Dec, 2016 by Peter
He was hired in early 2013 to help our company go after people that defrauded us. In the beginning, he was very responsive, once he was paid in full, after two and a half months; he began a pattern of not responding to emails and phone messages. He would ignore questions about the case and not answer questions asked. Often times he would apologize for missing scheduled conference calls as well as for not responding back after weeks and months had passed. After repeated emails, and phone messages, he would sometimes respond back with very brief updates and ignore questions that were asked. He did not provide documents as he said he would, even after we ask for it. He did not get depositions of people as well as did not include people in the suit that he was instructed and agreed to do. He said he would expedite and help us finish this case, and he did not. It is now almost four years and he has disappeared from responding back by email, or responding back to phone messages or answering his phone. He did not give us a reason as to why he does not or did not finish our case. There were many instances he said he would do things but did not. We have always been polite and professional with him. We have all the emails to substantiate these actions. So much time has been lost. Now that we have to find another attorney to finish what he was suppose to do; we are very disappointed and dissatisfy with his conduct and service.
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11 Nov, 2015 by Bartholomew motes
Within a minute of talking to Scott you will realize you are not only dealing with an incredibly capable and diligent attorney, but rarer still, someone who is going to take your case on as his own. Scott is thoughtful and asks all the right questions. He was able to resolve things with a minimum of time, expense, and aggravation. Thank you, Scott.
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29 Jan, 2014 by Moira
Scott is a great attorney. He's very responsive, engaging, and thorough. Scott wants what's best for his client - and you can trust his opinion. He gave me sage advice during a sticky situation - I am not sure how much I can write because my case actually involved social media, freedom of speech, the Free Trade Agreement, HIPPA and I signed a document saying I would never talk about my particular case online in a public forum again. However, he made the other guy cry uncle and ensured I was not sued for defamation while also helping right wrongs done unto me (including requiring a note of apology from the guy who wanted to sue me). Hopefully I won't need legal help again, but if I do, Scott will be my first call.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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