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14 Nov, 2024 by Chris stansbury
I spoke with Mr.Read about my case seeking some guidance with an IME. He was very helpful and friendly answering all my questions without charging me anything.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Leanne lavenets
Vail Gardner helped me sort out my estate and all the various documents I needed to rest easy. I was at a complete loss and Vail guided me through the process with her knowledge and patience. She and her staff are friendly and there for you when you need them. I feel very secure now after working with Vail to get my needed documents completed.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Walt and diane allen
Vail prepared our will and related documents and was very knowledgeable and personable. She walked us through this complicated process and was able to answer all our questions and address specific concerns.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Keisha pitts
He always was prompt with answering emails and calls with any concerns I had. He is very knowledgeable of the laws and helpful with all your needs, each time I interacted with him he gave me much comfort.
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03 Oct, 2022 by Teresa pritchard
The building was very clean and beautiful. The secretaries was very nice and polite. I Will recommend anyone to use Carlos as a lawyer. He takes his time and gets the job done right. He also has all his paperwork together. Justice was served with the the help of Carlos. Ty for all your patience and time. If I need a lawyer again, I will definitely be calling Carlos.
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13 Oct, 2021 by Shawn lloyd
Attorney Mills and his team went out of their way to show they cared and provided me with great service. Attorney Mills was very helpful and understanding. He worked diligently to get me the best settlement possible, no matter how long it took. I would highly recommend Attorney Mills. He and Mrs. Alice became like family.
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28 Feb, 2023 by Eric
I met Mark by chance outside the Durham County courthouse the day before my traffic violation court date. We had a lengthy conversation about the case and, while waiting for him to conduct other business, I had a chance to observe the goings on in court. I hired Mark and he immediately got to work, even working into the night (the 1:30 am text let me know). The outcome achieved in court was, I believe, the best possible. I will recommend Mark to friends, and I will retain his services if needed in future.
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11 Oct, 2019 by Greg
Mr. Simeon gave me free legal advice many years ago in regards to a DWI/ POSS charge. Represented myself and prevailed on both charges! $25 for a seatbelt ticket and I was adjudicated! This man fights for the people!
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27 Jul, 2019 by Latrisha
I first retained Mark Simeon 15 years ago, referred by my auntie. He handles all the traffic tickets for my whole family. We all knew he was an excellent lawyer, but after what he just accomplished for my fiancé, I must say he's the absolute BEST!! Long ago, some people in town started calling him "Houdini" because he can make license suspensions disappear off drivers' records. Now I see why -- my finance's license was suspended PERMANENTLY, several time over, and now, all the PERMs are gone! It took some time, and honestly, more money than we can afford, but it was so, so worth it. Simeon has a system, and it works. I hear he recently started a nonprofit law firm for NC driver license restoration so that he can help people who can't afford him. Let's hope they get the grants and donations they need to stay afloat because it's too many people out here driving on revoked licenses because they just don't have the money for lawyers like him. Anyway, Mark Simeon gets my top vote. I'd give him ten stars if I could!
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27 Jul, 2024 by Michael
Anne is capable of making all sides happy when she analyzes a dispute. She is a very good listener and does not quickly decide on an issue until she fully understands the issue.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Four corner rentals llc
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18 Dec, 2024 by Abigail jennings
I am a real estate professional who retained Jason Campbell with great success to handle a significant DOT taking in the past affecting my business. He looked past what was happening on that property to see how the taking from the larger shopping center would affect my building. I called him to discuss a current condemnation issue and he gave me clear and succinct advice. I would recommend him highly.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Phyllis szymanski
This law firm provided the assistance and encouragement I needed and I am so happy I made the call. Thanks to Tom Quigley and co-workers for putting my mind at ease. The genuine concern and care is superior. I would definitely recommend to anyone.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Annette
Kenneth did an outstanding job representing my case. It was dismissed, for which I am most grateful.
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19 Dec, 2024 by J c
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16 Dec, 2024 by Ali lamar
Gary Berman is very knowledgeable, thorough and fair with his pricing. Handles my real estate and estate issues. Easy working with him.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Annette
Kenneth did an outstanding job representing my case. It was dismissed, for which I am most grateful.
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19 Dec, 2024 by J c
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16 Dec, 2024 by Ali lamar
Gary Berman is very knowledgeable, thorough and fair with his pricing. Handles my real estate and estate issues. Easy working with him.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Annette
Kenneth did an outstanding job representing my case. It was dismissed, for which I am most grateful.
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19 Dec, 2024 by J c
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16 Dec, 2024 by Ali lamar
Gary Berman is very knowledgeable, thorough and fair with his pricing. Handles my real estate and estate issues. Easy working with him.
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23 Jun, 2021 by Charmaine
All these good reviews must be from friends or family members. Worst attorney ever. Wasted time and money with someone that did not care or do what needed to be done at all. Promised phone calls that never got. Hardly no communication at all and have records to prove it he filed what he wanted to file and did no justice. He only did the bare minimum. So disappointing. If you need real legal help for something serious, this is not it.
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19 Dec, 2020 by Thomas
A dedicated Attorney that has integrity beyond measure. Goes above and beyond to make sure you understand the dynamics of your case.
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19 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Hurst answered my question so clearly, concisely and descriptively. His explanations were extremely helpful, which I truly appreciate. He was kind, empathetic and actually cared about giving me the best answer possible, not only with my original question, but with an even better follow up when I thanked him for his answer. He is a good human being, which I believe helps makes him a great lawyer. I wish he was in my area, I would hire him for sure.
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24 Jan, 2018 by Brian
Ann helped me a lot in my academic integrity violation case. She gave advice and went over rules and regulations with me. She, also, taught me how to be self aware of my case. I was very thankful for her help, and I recommend her for others as well.
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27 Apr, 2017 by Victor
We hired Ann to help us with an issue we were having with our daughter's IEP. Our district was not providing us services, and Ann and her office helped us file the complaint to our district. After that, she went through all the different approaches we could take to deal with our district detailing, the advantages, risks, and cost associated with each. When we had our resolution meeting with the district, we elected not to have her in the meeting since it meant the district could not bring a lawyer either. However, Ann detailed exactly how the meeting would go and helped us organize all our paperwork and information for the meeting. During the meeting, we felt confident and prepared, in fact, we felt more prepared than the district. The outcome of the meeting was that the district gave us everything we asked for including costs accrued. This was a slow and stressful process, so it was very helpful to have Ann and her team walking us through each step of the way. She was very knowledgeable on the aspects of the law that surrounded our complaint and that helped us greatly to advocate confidently for ourselves. I would highly recommend Ann if you have any issues surrounding educational disability laws.
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06 Apr, 2016 by Joe emanuelson
I was a client of Ann Paradis from November of 2015-March 2016. I had received an unfortunate and wrongful dismissal from a graduate school academic program in October of 2015 and sought Ann's legal assistance. Ann was clear with me in the beginning that the school had committed a number of violations and that she would help me fight for justice. These violations included mistreatment, retaliation, and denial of due process rights. I noticed that after I had agreed to hire Ann, it became more and more difficult to get a hold of her via phone or email. On two occasions, she sent out letters to the school with multiple errors before receiving my approval. She seemed very irritated that I did not approve of this. I had put in a great deal of time organizing my documents and evidence that were pertinent to the case, but I never got the feeling that she thoroughly reviewed them. After spending three weeks drafting a letter for Ann's review with the help of a family attorney, Ann unexpectedly sent me an email, stating she was declining to provide any more legal assistance. She refused to even read the letter that I had spent so much time on. Now, I must hire another attorney and pay another hefty fee just to get them on board with my case. I would be extremely hesitant to hire Ann as your attorney for any matter.
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16 May, 2024 by Rachel zamorski
Ryan and his team are responsive, organized, patient and always willing to help. I cannot say enough good things about this team.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Cindi honeycutt
Great small law firm in Durham! If you’re Looking for a real estate lawyer or estate planning Josh and Ryan are awesome!
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02 Nov, 2023 by Traci hoover
Great experience. Office staff was helpful and friendly throughout our process.
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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:

  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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