Filter by

star star star star star
12 Sep, 2022 by Ts
Jon Green is a consummate high integrity legal professional who not only knows New Jersey employment law but knows how it works and how to work it. He is relentless and tenacious in his pursuit of justice for his client. He’s fearless and will consistently fight to get a fair settlement for you. He doesn’t back down. He’s a client-oriented attorney who listens carefully to his client so that he fully understands the case details and what your objectives are. If he doesn’t know or understand something you’ve said, he’ll ask you to explain further. He doesn’t assume anything. He’s very detail oriented. Jon will be fully engaged in your case and is best described as “all in” once the wheels of justice begin to turn. Jon also will tell you what you need to know not what you want to hear. He’ll give you the good news and the bad news. As the case twists and turns, Jon takes the time to explain it to you so you understand it and what ramifications it has for your case. Jon works with the client collaborating on strategies and next steps. I was referred to Jon by a corporate labor attorney who recommended Jon because “Jon has a game plan”. Once Jon knows all the details of your case he definitely will have a game plan. That said, he is open to the client’s opinions and is willing to take a different path that the client suggests if it makes sense and is beneficial to the case. Jon was always accessible and his staff and other partners were very helpful. After three and a half years the case was settled out of court and it was a very positive outcome. In my opinion, you couldn’t have a better employee rights attorney fighting for you than Jon Green. TS
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Jon represented me as a whistleblower against a former employer. He worked with me for over three years and negotiated a settlement that I am happy with. Jon’s knowledge of employment law, coupled with his many years of experience never ceased to amaze me. He always took my calls and answered my questions, patiently educating me on how the law works. What you want from your case and what you can realistically achieve with the evidence you have is something that Jon understands well. Jon is open-minded, he will listen to your suggestions and will work with you to give you the best chance of success. Jon has seen it, done it and he draws on his own experiences over his long career to provide the “battle plan” for your case. The proof is in the results and I can truly say that Jon delivered for me. We spent a long time together working on my case. If you hire Jon, you will gain the benefit of his experience, a brilliant legal advocate and also a friend. I will miss him. Thank you again, Jon.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Jul, 2022 by Lisa
Jon came highly recommended to me through one of his colleagues. As soon as we started talking he knew exactly what the main crux of my case should be and how it should be handled. He and his staff were in constant communication throughout the whole process. They never left a question unanswered. They worked patiently to make sure that I received a just and fair end to my case. His empathy for my situation was more than I could have asked for. Workplace situations are very delicate and emotional. Jon struck the great balance between being firm with me, keeping me focused and having the right sense of humor! There is no doubt that he is the leader in his field, his expertise is exceptional. I would, without any hesitation recommend Jon and his firm.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Brigette Eagan may be described as a hidden gem. She may not be as well known yet, but once she represents you in a case, you quickly realize how fortunate you are to have her on your team. Brigette represented my company in several employment discrimination matters. We faced significant liability if the plaintiffs were successful in establishing their cases. She showed excellent leadership and judgment by developing a defensive strategy and guiding her team of lawyers and paralegals throughout the course of the litigation. Ultimately we were successful thanks in large part to her persistent dedication. Brigette is always professional and treats everyone, clients, co-workers and adversaries, with dignity and respect. She is extremely responsive, returning phone calls and emails in a timely manner. I came to trust her advice and relied on her extensively. A few things really impressed me about her. First, she has a profound understanding of employment law. Although she has only been practicing for about 10 years, to listen to her talk you would think she has been doing this for decades. Second, she cares deeply for her clients. Client service is a top priority for her as evidenced by all of the tireless work she put into our cases. Third, the quality of her work is unparalled. Whether it be writing a brief, arguing a motion before a judge or taking a deposition, she is very, very competent. Brigette does not get enough credit. I hope her firm realizes what a valuable attorney they have and I look forward to continuing to work with her..
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
JoAnne Bonacci handled a personal matter for my family and did a phenomenal job.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Bruce handled my defamation case with strength, skill and fairness. We were opposed to one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, and were consistently up against 2-3 law firms at any given time. I truly felt Bruce and his associates did a great job and demonstrated the type of commitment to the client I have rarely seen in the legal profession. I believe he is likely the best lawyer I have ever worked with, and feel much the same way about the other partners in his firm who I met (although I had less contact with them). I am generally cynical about lawyers (having gone through a recent divorce and witnessed some of the worst sides of the legal profession), but Bruce provided a whole new side for me. I would strongly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Sep, 2024 by B
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2024 by Shama banik
Pooja and her team were thoughtful and knowledgeable. I felt the firm overall was efficient, responsive, and the fees were reasonable. Highly recommend.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2024 by Nandan patel
Pooja and the Saiber team provided excellent service—professional, responsive, and highly knowledgeable!!
Read more Google Maps
See 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:

  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.

Scroll to top