Best Civil Rights lawyers in California

4,016 Civil Rights Lawyers in California

>4.0k

experienced lawyers

Marcy Jane Tiffany

23670 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 204, Torrance, CA

Civil Rights +1

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

17 Jan, 2015 by Lea

I retained Marcy 5 years ago and the only regret I have is not doing it sooner. She has changed our lives for the better. The school dist. has us backed in a corner. With Marcy they didn't stand a chance. They did not even want to go into deliberations, now she had them backed into a corner. Our lives suddenly changed that day. I will not go to an IEP without her representation there. It is one of the best decisions I ever made in my life. My son is better for it. Thank you Marcy and staff! You are my angels here on earth :)

31 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous

Marcy Tiffany is an outstanding lawyer specializing special education law. We faced a very difficult situation with the school district and how they treated our special needs child. His unique disability masked his capabilities. The school district was unable to support his needs and attempted to outsource him to a program that was inadequate for him. Ms. Tiffany took the time to explain his legal rights and the process to secure the right services for growth and development. We had no previous experience with a due process complaint and needed the guidance and professionalism of Ms. Tiffany and Jennifer Ralph to navigate the steps to ensure a good outcome for our child. At every turn in our journey, Ms. Tiffany and Ms. Ralph were the best advocates ever - asking all the tough questions, planning and preparing for meetings and making sure every option was considered. Beyond Ms. Tiffany’s exceptional knowledge and negotiation skills, she is a person who is invested in the best outcomes for her clients. She takes the time to really understand her clients’ needs and provides terrific counsel to access the best plan for each individual. Ms. Tiffany worked professionally with the school district lawyer and hearing officer to secure a settlement that provided services which made a significant difference in our child’s life. We highly recommend Marcy Tiffany and her professional team to parents or family members seeking an advocate for their loved ones that deserve to be treated with respect and to seek a brighter future.

30 Dec, 2014 by Tina

Year after year, we have been told by other lawyers and are school district what are son can't have for his disabilities. Even though in Wrights Law, says it's a law, and he needs it for his disabilities. Until we were referred to Marcy and Tiffany by a person with a professional Special Education background. Oh my god, we couldn't be more appreciative towards Marcy and Jen going over all our son's IEP's and asking us questions! This way they could learn about our son and his special needs. When we went to mediation with Marcy, she handled the settlement case very professional. She fought and got our son what he needed. We see a big change for the better in our son! Therefore, we will stay with MarcyTiffany to keep helping our son with his education. Thanks to Marcy, Jen, and David!!

Maureen Margaret Geary

90 S E St Ste 320, Santa Rosa, CA

Civil Rights +1

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

27 Oct, 2021 by Jeni hough

22 Jul, 2021 by Colleen heinrich

Always professional, supportive and knowledgable. Thank you for your time in helping to sort out all the chaos making it smooth and painless...

08 Jun, 2021 by Aris pologeorgis

Martha Aileen Roof

2700 N Main St Ste 990, Santa Ana, CA

Business Civil Rights Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

22 Mar, 2024 by Marya oliver

The Attorney Geraldine Ly is not only a beautiful woman ...she also have a beautiful soul , she work hard with your cases she have very professional people working for her specially her receptionist, and Claudia she always so nice and always there for you Thank you so much .🙏 MaD Aparicio.

08 Feb, 2024 by Alex moore

Ms. Ly and her top assistant Van are both very helpful and I would highly recommend!

21 Jul, 2023 by Don gifford

I can't recommend enough the services of this outstanding Workers' Comp attorney. Her depth of knowledge and experience in the field is simply unrivaled, and her reputation for diligence and tenacity is well-earned. She consistently goes above and beyond, providing exceptional attention to detail and unwavering support throughout the legal process. Her efforts have continually exceeded expectations, illustrating an undeniable commitment to her clients. Whether you are seeking representation or advice in a Workers' Comp case, consider her and her formidable law firm as your first choice. Their professionalism and expertise are unmatched, promising a level of service that is both personally supportive and legally exceptional.

Todd Allan Spitzer

7420 E Morninglory Way, Orange, CA

Business Civil Rights Litigation +3

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

06 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous

I have dealt with many attorneys over the course of both my personal and professional life. I can truly say that Mr. Spitzer ranks at the very top of the list. I do not give praise easily, but Mr. Spitzer not only fought passionately and tirelessly for my childs' interests and protection as a victim, he also was the most reponsvie attorney I have ever worked with. He was incredibly focused, trustworthy and committed throughout a process that dragged on for more than 6 months. My family is incredibly thankful that we had Mr. Spitzer looking out for our interests.

18 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous

Todd Spitzer was referred to us by Crime Survivors. We were instantly amazed at how knowledgeable and personable he was. He treated us with compassion and he is whole-heartedly dedicated to his job and Victim's Right's. He wrote Marcy's Law.... so he know's what he's doing! He always answered our questions, explained what was going on, and kept us informed. We have contacted him "after the fact" with questions, and he has been reliable in responding and support. Our family is grateful and appreciative for Todd Spitzer's vigilant passion for the job that he does. We highly recommend him!

23 Jul, 2012 by Christine

Nothing could be more frightening than to have your child brought home to you, bloodied and beaten up. I have never felt so vulnerable and helpless. Initially, I tried to handle her legal needs myself—calling the police, contacting her school, and petitioning for civil restraining orders against the juveniles who assaulted my daughter. We encountered a court system that was unhelpful, that favored the assailants because they had a lawyer, and that unfairly subjected my daughter to insults and reprimanded my 16-year-old daughter. I interviewed a few lawyers and kept being told to talk to Todd Spitzer because of his expertise in victim’s rights. Hiring Spitzer turned the case around for us. He was consistently respectful, and his advice was always on the mark. Spitzer invoked my daughter’s Marsy’s Law rights (the California Victims' Bill of Rights Act of 2008, which Spitzer helped become part of the state’s constitution). He represented us in civil court, where he was able to get temporary restraining orders continued through the criminal proceedings. With his representation, my daughter was treated respectfully. When the District Attorney moved to prosecute, Todd Spitzer, under the provisions of Marsy’s Law, represented my daughter in court, talked with the District Attorney, made a successful argument for full restitution, and relayed my daughter’s remarks to the judge. This saved my daughter from being further victimized by the courts and relieved her of the trauma of having to again be in the presence of her main attacker. The guilty plea in this criminal assault case was one that all other attorneys I talked to said was unlikely if not impossible. Todd Spitzer made it possible, negotiating with the defense attorney and making sure that my daughter’s rights were upheld and that her interests were fairly represented. At each step along the way, Todd Spitzer kept us fully informed about the process and was always available to answer our questions. My daughter’s ability to pull through this trauma is related to a great degree to Todd Spitzer’s ability to obtain justice for her. He gave her confidence, and he made her feel supported; he transformed her from victim to survivor. We are grateful for his commitment to victim’s rights and to doing what is right.

James Raza Lawrence

8484 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Litigation +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

12 Jan, 2017 by Dartanyon

He teamed up and took the case over with Allison Margolin to do me extreme justice. I had a Marijuana sales case to an undercover officer. Raza worked relentlessly to get me a win in the case. I had a prior strike and was facing about 4 years. With his hard work he had the case reduced to a Misdemeanor, and summary probation until the Community Service was completed. Thanks Again. I recommend him to anyone in need of help to keep their freedom.

23 Dec, 2016 by Angelo

Raza and her partner were able to help me with an outstanding warrant of 2 years of which I had no idea I had against me until I found out through a background check done on me. I spoke to other attorneys before and not only were they more expensive but they said it could take weeks, even months to get this resolved. Raza was able to do it on the first day he went to the court house for me! I am extremely happy I was able to find such good attorneys who keep their word and work hard for their clients. If you need legal advice or representation, look no further.

10 Oct, 2015 by Kris

I called upon Raza of Margolin and Lawrence when things looked very grim for me coming up on trial for a felony DUI. I was referred by a close friend who had hired them. Raza was able to minimize my sentence with 3 days left before trial when my other lawyer admitted to me that things didn't look good for me and he had no other recourse. I wish I would have hired them off the bat, would have had an ideal outcome, I'm sure of it. They are especially familiar with judges and courtrooms in LA county

Richard Wynn

301 E Ocean Blvd Ste 1700, Long Beach, CA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

07 Feb, 2018 by Justin

Very hard working person. He solved my problem asap. Thank you so much. I will hire him again.

04 Jan, 2014 by Camtu

I highly recommend this lawyer to all my family and close friends. I had to higher Richard another lawyer because my previous one completely miss informed me on my case which made everything worse even leading up to me having a warrant! I needed someone ASAP!! Luckily I found Richard Wynn through a recommendation from another friend. He set everything right and even got rid of my warrant. He also fixed all these issues on Christmas Eve and put my case first before a family holiday. Richard Wynn was so helpful and knowledgable with any questions I had!

15 Dec, 2013 by Veronica

After having numerous attorneys tell me I had virtually no chance at obtaining a restraining order to protect myself and my family, Richard Wynn took the time to really listen to me and the situation I was going through. Not only did he win my case, we received a much better judgement than expected! Considering the nature of my case, Richard is was definitely the best lawyer I could have had to represent me, to keep me informed, to ensure all filings were handled on time and that I was prepared and calm for my numerous appearances in court.

3680 Wilshere BLVD STE P04-1147, Los Angeles, CA

Business Civil Rights Consumer Protection +5 +8

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

29 Jul, 2022 by George

He Got me a settlement i was not expecting. Great service I highly recommend him

22 Nov, 2020 by Chervonte

ALK is a great lawyer. He helped my family fight against a huge corporation and won. I would definitely recommend him to other family and friends in the future.

31 Jul, 2020 by Adrian

I find Attorney Lorenzo service above average. He is always in contact giving updates, he is very knowledgeable in regards to his profession. I was thrilled to have him represent me, he was available at all times. He truly stands behind his client, I haven't met a lawyer that I would rank in his professionalism, he exceeded my expectations!

Anthony Joseph Calero

2055 Junction Ave Ste 138, San Jose, CA

Civil Rights Insurance Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

26 Oct, 2022 by Laura cervantes

I am super happy and grateful to the lawyer Joseph Camenzind, very professional responsible he solved my problem and he was there for me at all times he did his job very well Thanks to him I can be calm and live without problem he fight for my daughter until the end and he managed to have the custody of my baby and I am very happy and grateful I recommend it 100%. Don’t hesitate to call him, he can help you with your problem. He will fight for you and do just enough to get you out of the problem. Your prices are very economical and flexible.

20 Oct, 2022 by Summer zhao

Joseph and Mike are so patient, when they talked to me, during this suffering process. I truly appreciate it.

15 Aug, 2022 by Rick leon

Joe Camenzind has been very supportive, caring, and extremely pleasant to work with since day one. Furthermore, his heartfelt sincerity for me and the best interest of my son was always of the utmost importance. Mr. Camenzind poured countless hours into my custody trials; he is well versed with the law; was always well prepared and met all our court deadlines, even if it meant working Saturdays; he was very responsive to my many calls and emails; he also showed concern for me as an individual, which included calling me after hours and giving me a ride to my vehicle after court; and he ultimately showed compassion for my son and his well-being, which speaks volumes of his character. I thank God for Mr. Camenzind’s legal representation and friendship, for guiding our footsteps in what has been a true test of faith, and for seeing me through to the end with an answer to many prayers. While the journey was not easy, the genuine support and care that I received from Mr. Camenzind is and will always be very much appreciated!

Gregory Richard Michael

1400 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA

Business Civil Rights Intellectual Property +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

24 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous

Greg's cease and desist letter, and his clear and firm communication with my opponent, brought a swift end to my defamation dispute! I'm so relieved that I didn't have to take my opponent to court for a lengthy and stressful battle. I *highly* recommend Greg to anyone being defamed in whatever medium.

25 Jan, 2021 by Ronald

Mr. Michael became very knowledgeable about my specific circumstances in a time-sensitive environment and indicated to me continuously my options in regards to my situation. I appreciated the time that he took to explain the possible consequences at various stages which greatly alleviated my concern with the situation coming to a relatively quick resolution. I was very impressed at the options afforded to me with my perspective being paramount within the confines of the law. I would absolutely recommend, and if needed in the future, he will be my first contact.

03 Mar, 2020 by Zheng

I appreciate very much Gregory for his help with the class sue of the GFDP case. It lasts for more than two years!

Daniel Alan Reisman

8200 Wilshire Boulevard #302, Beverly Hills, CA

Civil Rights Personal Injury +2

+1 (323) 992-0354

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

07 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous

Daniel and I have worked together on several employment law matters including class actions and other complex matters against some of the most formidable attorneys on the other side that one could imagine. He has been terrific with clients, extremely hardworking and a huge asset. In one big case, he single-handedly obtained evidence through his own efforts that changed the case in our favor overnight and led to a fantastic result. He is a very high quality lawyer and worth every penny. - AM

01 Dec, 2017 by Chris

Reisman & Reisman were absolutely incredible!! From the first phone call throughout the entire process I was extremely please and grateful! What was most impressive is how compassionate and comforting Daniel, Erin and the rest of the Reisman & Reisman team were! They gave me a sense of relief and kept me strong when the discrimination was at it's worst and they followed through with everything they said. If you need the absolute best attorney to go to bat for you, Reisman & Reisman will knock it out of the park on all levels! As I'm typing this I'm discovering that there are no words or a single sentence that could explain how incredibly thankful and grateful I am to have had these guys representing me!!! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!

28 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous

Dan and his Team are very professional and get the results you want. His Team is throughly prepared when it comes to presenting any case. I want to say a Special Thanks to his entire Team! Thank you Reisman & Reisman, The Law Firm You Want!

Meera Patel

525 Middlefield Rd Ste 250, Menlo Park, CA

Civil Rights Intellectual Property +2

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

10 Feb, 2023 by 김정환

20 Mar, 2022 by James ferrando

My accountant gave home my taxes and 5 days later...all done

17 Nov, 2021 by Steve boyd

Business Car Accident Civil Rights +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

08 May, 2017 by Neil

Had a contract dispute. Chris reviewed for us and gave excellent advice. Saved us several thousands of dollars with the strategy that he employed. So thankful.

09 Sep, 2015 by Czeslaw

Mr. Christopher Goodroe was superb in Litigating and settle my case, before expensive trial. He was always attentive and available to talk whenever I called with questions. Never hesitate to get out of the way to be helpful and explain all the necessary procedures. I Hope I won't need his services again, but if I had to again I would not hesitate to call on him first, and I Would highly recommend Christopher Windsor Goodroe to other Mariners.

15 Apr, 2015 by Lorraine

My experience with C.W. Goodroe (Christopher) was positive from the start. Being new to litigation of any kind, I had no idea what to expect of the process. Chris was informative and answered my many questions. He explained the entire process, what I should expect, and was clear on the timeline. Communication was excellent and he always returned my calls or emails promptly as well as calling or emailing when he said he would. I also appreciated that he explained all possibilities and let me decide what I wanted to do, even though I most commonly went with his advice. Chris is determined, confident, and not easily intimidated, so I felt very sure that my case was handled with the best outcome possible. I highly recommend his services.

Christina Elizabeth Wickman

500 La Terraza Blvd Ste 150, Escondido, CA

Civil Rights Class Action Consumer Protection +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

20 Sep, 2018 by Mike

I was involved in an accident circa 2016, my vehicle was deemed a total loss. This was at a time I was busy and constantly out of town, so I had no time to deal with all the administrative matters on the back end. I found out about Wickman & Wickman through a colleague and immediately contacted here. They quickly took over the case and were able to resolve even though I was out of office or town routinely. I recommend them for anyone who experiences a situation similar to this.

26 Nov, 2017 by Patricia

Wickman & Wickman is a highly competent firm that makes their clients feel as if they are always their top priority. Our experience was personal and they were sensitive to our situation and gave us peace of mind throughout the process. They were aggressive and focused on getting the results we wanted and achieved them in less time than we anticipated.

19 Nov, 2017 by Coffee_habit

I needed some direction/guidance for a consumer fraud issue, and Christina Wickman pointed me in some good directions. I appreciate her help, because the legal world is not easy to navigate.

Donald Edward Joseph Kilmer Jr

1645 Willow Street, San Jose, CA

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

06 May, 2019 by Anonymous

I was arrested for concealed carry charges and Don did a wonderful job to help me get the best deal. I was going to be convicted of felony in Santa Clara county. Don spoke with the DA and I recieved a deal on my first court date. I was originally going to get a felony but it was reduced to a misdemeanor with court probation for two years and no weapons for 5. He still helps me to this day with anything and everything pertaining to my case. I am in the process of getting my record cleared. If your having trouble with any gun related offenses I would give his office a call. He's just an all around great lawyer.

10 Aug, 2018 by C. jeffrey

Finally an Attorney that is hard working , ethical, and one of the finest Constitional Attorneys in the Country. Mr Kilmer has represent our firm on numerous occasions with outstanding results. He is a straight shooter and is not going to waste your time or money.

09 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous

I hired Don to be my attorney for a case, and he was very patient in explaining the details of the case and my options. With his representation, we were able to get a good result with the case. I would hire Don again.

Naomi Chung

Pier 9, Suite 100, San Francisco, CA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Immigration +3

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

01 Aug, 2018 by Richard wright

Professional, empathetic, and a relentless advocate, Naomi took hold of my case and rid my life of an extremely detrimental problem. It's cliché but true: sometimes the mistakes of the past come back to haunt us. And after making a stupid mistake when I was 19 and being arrested, pleading no contest, completing my sentence, having my record expunged by the court, and staying out of trouble for 20 years, my record resurfaced. So much for expungement. A friend recommended I see Naomi. She listened intently, asked insightful and pertinent questions, and learned all she could from me. She tracked my 20-year-old case down (no small feat I'm told) and then came back with even more information from the court so she knew every inch of my dilemma. She gave me multiple options, guided me through her process, explained why she was choosing the route she was, walked me through possible outcomes, and kept me updated every step of the way. I'm happy to say she made the expungement stick this time. I'm no longer burdened by the dumb mistake I made and do not have to worry that my record might still be out there in the ether somewhere. I would highly recommend Naomi to friends, family and colleagues who need an attorney. Thank you, Naomi!

27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous

I feel extremely fortunate to have hired Naomi to handle my case. She always made time for me and my family, left no stone unturned, and fought for me every step of the way. Naomi is an aggressive and brilliant lawyer. I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants a great result. She will fight for you!

21 Jun, 2018 by Gregory

I give Attorney Naomi Chung my highest recommendation without any reservations. I retained Attorney Chung to represent me in a very complicated case and she was very professional, hardworking, dedicated and extremely smart. If you need a great attorney, there is no need to look any further.

Kendra J. Woods

8383 Wilshire Blvd Ste 935, Beverly Hills, CA

Civil Rights Consumer Protection Estate Planning +3

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

31 Oct, 2017 by Alice salles affonso hankoff

13 Jul, 2017 by Marcus ward

I was hit by a car on foot last year and their staff has helped me the whole way as far as keeping me updated and sending me to the right places for treatment. Teresa, Bella, Christina, and Nagelberg were very responsive to all my questions and concerns. They charge a less percentage compared to other attourneys . They hold your hand through the process but respect you by providing accurate information on your case and touching base. I would definitely reccomemd them to a family member or friend !

20 Nov, 2015 by Terry pacl

They treated me great. I was rear ended by a semi when I was 17, and became a quadriplegic. They flew to Texas and became my lawyers and friends. Kurt and Larry are great people on general and amazing lawyers. They took less of a % than any attorney in Texas would have, and by the time we settled with the insurance company, got me more than any lawyer in Texas would have. Highly recommended!

Brian Mccarthy

Suite 2202, San Diego, CA

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

09 May, 2017 by J.o'brien

Brian has been helping me since 2001. I was in the military and had 2 DUI's in a years time. Not only did he defend me and help me resolve it he gave me some great advice. A few years later, I had to return to San Diego to deal with an issue and Brian helped me again with spectacular results. I now find myself seeking financial licenses and once again Brian has gone out of his way on 2 different occasions to ensure my previous woes didn't stop me from achieving my goals. I think Brian is a great attorney and an even better man. As a professional, who works with many attorneys I'd recommend Brian and his team over everyone I know.

16 Nov, 2014 by Lh

I was in the market for a lawyer to help me clear my arrest record for a DUI that the D.A never filled charges, but the arrest was still on my record. I was all set to meet with another lawyer the day after I gave Brian a call, but I was referred to Brian from another lawyer contact that I picked up from my job. Called his office, got him on the phone, explained my situation, he told me exactly what he would do and how much it would cost. I wanted to set up a face to face meeting or we could have just corresponded via snail mail. I chose the face to face option. I went to the previously scheduled meeting with the other lawyer. The other lawyer said what Brian proposed to do could not be done and was going to charge me 85 percent more then what Brian quoted. I thanked him for his time and went to my meeting with Brian. When I met with Brian it was painless, I peppered him with questions about wether I was legally entitled to the remedy he was seeking. He said that I was, a direct contradiction of the previous lawyer that I talked to. After signing things that allowed Brian to represent me I again asked him when I could expect a result of the remedy he was seeking with SDPD. He gave me a one month turnaround. I walked out of his office reassured. And only spending a tiny fraction of what the other lawyer was quoting me. The month came and I got a letter from Brian with what he had promised from SDPD. He also requested that my arrest be sealed and destroyed. This was the same process that the other lawyer was going to charge me an arm and a leg for. I called Brian and got him on the phone right away, asked how much the extra motion was going to cost. He told me not to worry and will discuss any extra fees dependent on how SDPD responded to the request to seal and destroy. Again this was a request that the first lawyer said that SDPD usually never grants. Brian on the other hand told me to wait it out for their response. He again gave me a one month deadline for them to respond. Before the one month deadline I got another letter from Brian indicating that SDPD had agreed to seal and destroy the record of the arrest. I can not thank Brian enough, I can legally and honestly answer any question about wether I have ever been arrested with a resounding NO. Do your research first and talk to Brian and see what he says. I trust him 100 percent.

29 Sep, 2014 by L & s

I would like to commend Mr. McCarthy for his outstanding representation on a family member's legal issues. He is a very hard-working and very well-informed attorney who does his best for his clients. He thoroughly researched all our options and determined a good resolution for our case. I recommend him as an attorney who is not only very knowledgeable, but also really cares about his clients.

Robert Alan Preskill

1671 The Alameda, San Jose, CA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Entertainment +3

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

04 Apr, 2022 by Karen

Robert is awesome, very professional, and was able to handle my situation in a timely manner. I highly recommend him extremely knowledgeable and knew exactly what to do.

19 Jul, 2017 by Rosalia

This guy is the best of the best when it comes to criminal defense. I would recommend him to anyone.

19 Jul, 2017 by Alexander

Robert is the best attorney I've ever been to. He is so professional and worked so hard on my case! I would go to him again in an instant.

Christopher Chevreaux Vader

801 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA

Civil Rights Litigation Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

10 Jan, 2021 by Dave

First, my sincerest apologies to Chris, Pam, and all the staff for my complete negligence and selfish tardiness in posting these reviews of our experience. My only excuse and defense is that I have been having way too much fun these past few months with the toys I have always hoped for in my “Golden Years” of retirement. I.e. Kubota Tractor, hydraulic dump, flat bed, and now constructing a pole barn to store it. My wife, I, and our Minnie Aussie departed our Olympia, WA home on the start of a month long retirement “road trip of a lifetime.” On day two we were hit by a drunk driver in Joshua Tree, CA. While we were all relatively unharmed our brand new (3,500 miles) GMC truck was totaled. We returned back to Olympia six days later and asked ourselves, “what the heck just happened and now what?” I sat down and composed a six page narrative of what happened describing what was going on in our lives before, at the time, and after, this horrific incident. At the same time, Leta was searching for a personal injury lawyer. After much debate and settling on two, we flipped a coin and Leta won. I am SO glad she did. I am confident that this narrative assisted Chris greatly in determining the value of our case and, more importantly, who we are, our history, feelings, dreams, etc. And he was able to achieve this without us ever having hade face to face communication. We did have, however, enjoy many hours on the phone at both the beginning and at the end of our near 18 month association. And none of that time on the phone was created for “billing hours.” It was all on Chris’s dime. Chris worked tirelessly in communication with both the defendant’s insurance company, as well as ours to obtain the maximum “underinsured motorist” coverage we carry. Ultimately, we were awarded the maximum limits allowable on both policies. We each received two checks, one from the drunk drivers insurance, and one from ours. We just renewed with our insurance and I have not noticed any increase in premium. The only way we could have received more money would have been to go to court with a jury trial. Given our Covid-19 environment and the snail’s pace the court is moving, I believe Chris advised us correctly in accepting the full limit offer. I can never thank this firm enough and would, without hesitancy, recommend them to anyone who has been wrongly injured in the Palm Springs area. I’m still looking forward to footing the bill for a meal at Elmer’s.

28 Dec, 2020 by Leta

We had the misfortune of being 1200 miles and 2 states away from home when we were broadsided by a drunk driver in Feb. 2019. Our new truck was totaled right in the middle of 29 Palms Highway. Our injuries were not life threatening thanks to air bags and other safety features. We found Christopher Vader, who along with his trusted sidekick, Pam Kitchens, handled all the details, medical billing, communicating with insurance adjusters and providing us with frequent updates. When it seemed like we were preparing to settle with all involved parties, the Courts shut down due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Chris remained optimistic and by mid summer we received the maximum payout awarded by the Insurance companies. We couldn't be happier with the process and outcome. Thank you Chris (and Pam)!

19 Sep, 2017 by David

Mr. Vader was my choice for attorney for a personal injury event I had in Palm Springs, 1,000 miles away from my home. He listened carefully to my case, evaluated me as much as I did him, and was completely honest about the possible outcomes, promising nothing more than hard and honest work. And that is what I received; skilled and careful preparation all done with an honestly friendly demeanor that resulted in a fair settlement. I felt included and valued as a client and Mr. Vader respected my own professionalism and communication skills, consulting at all times for consensus and agreement on the path of the case. When the case settled, Mr. Vader showed the content of his character with clarity. An error of the written word, in the firm's favor, was corrected in my favor, honoring our handshake agreement. And he was the one finding the error, not I.

Sean Anthony Brady

180 E Ocean Blvd Ste 200, Long Beach, CA

Civil Rights Government Litigation +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

13 Mar, 2018 by Miguel

I contacted Mr. Brady because of his knowledge and experience in construction law. He helped me with what to do on a recent mechanical lein that was placed on my property. We found out it was invalid. I recommend hiring Mr Brady on any construction problems you may face.

09 Feb, 2013 by Richard

Mr. Brady helped me in a legal matter and gave me great relief in a sticky situation by handling the matter with attention and competence.

05 Jan, 2012 by Michael

Sean Brady helped me through the initial stages of a Health Care case for me a few years back, and he definitley went above and beyond any on my expectations w/ his Professional Services. I would indeed highly recommend Sean Brady for Attorney Services, and the Professional way in which he conducts business. Sean also displays a very polite & cordial manner as he conducts his professional services & his knowledge of the Law is Outstanding... In my opinion, Sean Brady is a fine up-standing young Lawyer w/ an impeccable track record of doing whatever it takes to get the mission accomplished...!

Michael Ryan Watts

801 S Figueroa St Fl 15, Los Angeles, CA

Civil Rights Government +2

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

5.0

1 Reviews

09 May, 2024 by James smith

12 Feb, 2021 by Leonardo

When assigning a complex litigated case, one wishes not only to select the leading public entity defense firm but also ensure that the lawyer assigned is educated, aggressive and dedicated to serving your agency's needs. Michael Watts is such a professional. Having hired Mr. Watts on several sensitive cases requiring dealing with contentious issues, competing demands, and high-exposure potential, the results achieved were well beyond my expectations. I am very impressed by Mr. Watts, his professionalism, his honesty, and his gentlemanly demeanor.

14 Aug, 2018 by Lucas rowe

I've worked with Mr. Watts in different capacities for several years. He is one the smartest, hardest working guys you will ever meet. Having him on your team means thorough and thoughtful analysis, coupled with straightforward, no nonsense advice.

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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.

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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