Lawyers map
>44
experienced lawyers
Filter by
14 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Lisa Matukaitis operates a small, highly-focused law firm specializing in employment law and civil rights. She provided excellent service for me during a case involving sex discrimination and disability discrimination. Her expertise is extensive but she offers detailed personal attention. I was especially impressed by how quickly she responded to changes in my situation, often filing updated legal documents virtually immediately to keep my case in the best possible shape. She has integrity and excellent character, and is very supportive, responding to my questions and concerns very quickly. She obviously cared about me personally. I highly recommend the law firm of Lisa Matukaitis without reservation.
Read more
04 Dec, 2014 by Jim and grace
Lisa provided us with excellent legal representation and helped us win our case against a large public employer. We didn't have the cash on hand to retain her services, so she kindly allowed us to pay on a contingency basis, where we would only have to pay her in full once the case was won. Lisa always kept us updated and answered our questions in a very timely manner, and she was a strong and confident advocate. She took on 7 corporate big-shot lawyers and beat them hands down, so effectively that they settled out of court at our very first meeting! There was minimal time lost in putting together the case, and we got a much higher settlement than we had expected. We would highly recommend Lisa to anyone with a valid case to lodge against a large and seemingly impervious company or public entity. Lisa cuts the giants down to size and protects the little guy!
Read more
04 Dec, 2014 by Tammy
I could not have asked for a better attorney then Attorney Matukaitis. I had a contract and was discharged prior to my contract expiring. Attorney Matukaitis helped me understand my rights and what could be done. She made me feel comfortable and at ease, though the whole process, Attorney Matukaitis and her staff were always keeping me updated and informed on everything going on with my case. They resolved my case quickly and got me a fair settlement within a very short time. Attorney Matukaitis is very compassionate with her work and clients, she actually listens to you and your concerns. If I would ever need help with an employment issue (which I hope not too) I would definitely use her again and highly recommend her to anyone in need of help with employment issues. She is a very strong and motivated person looking to help her client.
Read more
16 Apr, 2023 by Paul
I retained Mr. Brenner on the advice of another attorney when it became apparent that I was likely to face a frivolous lawsuit from an ex. This was my first experience with civil law, and among my first experiences with retaining an attorney in general. That said, I did not know what to expect, and I was frustrated and scared. Tom did a great job of walking me through the process and letting me vent when necessary. The process makes a glacier look fast! Tom was always available when I needed him and did a great job of explaining things in a way that I understood. Perhaps most importantly, he listened to me, endeavored to understand the uniqueness (perceived or real) of my situation, and then explained my options in a way I could understand, and then let/made me decide on the course of action I thought was best for me prior to making any major moves. Tom knows the system, the players and the process. My general take on the situation was that I wanted to fight since it was my money and my reputation that needed defending. That said, I guess the result is that my perception was that we didn’t fight as hard as possible. However, that MAY be more emotion than reality on my part as the case is now settled in a manner that ultimately was acceptable to me. Once I swallowed that settling may be the best option, I have to say that Tom did an excellent job in those proceedings.
INFO I FEEL I NEED TO INCLUDE: No matter who you choose to hire, I strongly recommend that you do your homework and make use of free initial consults to ensure that whoever you choose is a good fit for you. I was shocked by my whole situation, had far too much faith in the system, and did not make good use of these initial consults. If you are hiring an attorney to represent you in Pennsylvania, I recommend that you check here as well: https://www.padisciplinaryboard.org/for-the-public/find-attorney. It is unlikely that you will find an attorney with a history of founded ethical violations since this is a case of attorneys policing their own (something they just don’t do), but I encourage you to check anyway. Lastly, set realistic expectations. It isn’t like on TV—rest assured that attorneys are not going to call out their own. It is a cult, and non-attorneys are on the outside looking in—even though your life and livelihood may depend on it.
Read more
02 May, 2022 by Donna
28 Jan, 2019 by John yaninek
04 Dec, 2017 by Ccr redd
15 Dec, 2024 by Charisaa t godwin
My experiences with Scaringi Is Law have been very supportive and uplifting at times of unknowing, stress, uncertainty. Ive always been treated with respect from every staff member!
Consistency, stability, dependability!
We all know that there is no guarantees in life...not really, a toaster has 30 days and on the 31st day it doesnt work....right???
Hhaa
Scaringi Law has been the 30 day warranty that hasn't ended.
Let me explain, when ever I called Melissa or Laura at the front desk, they were and are there for me every day the Firm is opened. These Front Desk Warriors are super awesome and kind!
Then there is the personal Team that is solely dedicated to ensure my Case is taking top priority. Actually every case is Top Priority!! (They make me feel like my Case is the only case!) No matter who in Scaringi Law had been assigned to work with me on my Case had shined like Senior Paralegal Deborah.
Brandon, Janice.
The one nobody wants to talk about is Billing and Finances.
Dominic had been so helpful and kind in this uncomfortable topic.
Not once ever had I been made to feel a certain way by him or anyone.
Thank you so much Marc Scaringi for your guidance and direction during the Biggest Battle of my life!!
Thank you Scaringi Law for standing by myself and my Family as we move forward into 2025.
May your Firm and Employees Be Blessed continually.
Thank you for having STAYING POWER, Strength, Reliability, Dependability, Professional Support and Guidance.
Thank you
C. Godwin
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Met with Mark Scaringi who provided me with an initial consultation. Wow, what a super personable and knowledgeable and professional attorney! Laura took the call from me to make the appointment and she was just sweet as pie over the phone. Meeting her in person only confirmed this! Highly recommendthese wonderful people!!!
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Garrett rice
I called to speak with someone about a 2A matter. I first spoke with Laura Petty who was very helpful in getting me to the right person. I was amazed they were able to schedule a consultation by the next day! I was paired with attorney Robert Sakovich. He was able to answer everything I had questions about and get me on track to get to a resolution. Their help has been invaluable to my situation. I would have been completely lost in trying to navigate the legal process without their help. I highly recommend them!!!
Read more
15 Dec, 2024 by Charisaa t godwin
My experiences with Scaringi Is Law have been very supportive and uplifting at times of unknowing, stress, uncertainty. Ive always been treated with respect from every staff member!
Consistency, stability, dependability!
We all know that there is no guarantees in life...not really, a toaster has 30 days and on the 31st day it doesnt work....right???
Hhaa
Scaringi Law has been the 30 day warranty that hasn't ended.
Let me explain, when ever I called Melissa or Laura at the front desk, they were and are there for me every day the Firm is opened. These Front Desk Warriors are super awesome and kind!
Then there is the personal Team that is solely dedicated to ensure my Case is taking top priority. Actually every case is Top Priority!! (They make me feel like my Case is the only case!) No matter who in Scaringi Law had been assigned to work with me on my Case had shined like Senior Paralegal Deborah.
Brandon, Janice.
The one nobody wants to talk about is Billing and Finances.
Dominic had been so helpful and kind in this uncomfortable topic.
Not once ever had I been made to feel a certain way by him or anyone.
Thank you so much Marc Scaringi for your guidance and direction during the Biggest Battle of my life!!
Thank you Scaringi Law for standing by myself and my Family as we move forward into 2025.
May your Firm and Employees Be Blessed continually.
Thank you for having STAYING POWER, Strength, Reliability, Dependability, Professional Support and Guidance.
Thank you
C. Godwin
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Garrett rice
I called to speak with someone about a 2A matter. I first spoke with Laura Petty who was very helpful in getting me to the right person. I was amazed they were able to schedule a consultation by the next day! I was paired with attorney Robert Sakovich. He was able to answer everything I had questions about and get me on track to get to a resolution. Their help has been invaluable to my situation. I would have been completely lost in trying to navigate the legal process without their help. I highly recommend them!!!
Read more
23 Nov, 2024 by Cathi george
Jeff Schott was very helpful with my issue and explained what would all be involved in my situation. Thanks so much for your help! I will be in touch!
Read more
07 Mar, 2019 by Brad alfieri
Great legal aid network
Read more
18 May, 2018 by Denise bedio
Basically a menu that doesn't offer any real help in finding legal representation. If you're facing civil matters you're referred to your county legal network but if it's a criminal matter then you're stuck with a crappy appointed lawyer that gets paid by the county so of course they are more concerned with getting paid by your fines rather than helping you.
Read more
16 Apr, 2018 by Megan lewis
Useless organization. They will provide you with no information or legal aid referrals.
Read more
07 Jan, 2025 by Dennis freytes
This is where the corrupt judges get to find out who has made conduct complaints about them.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Thomas b
They seem to be using this organization as a political weapon against democrats?
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by Steve
Judicial ethics opinions should be public. Redact names if you must, but advisory opinions on what PA judges should or should not be doing should be public info available to everyone. Your complete lack of transparency does not engender trust in your corrupt court system. Then again, most judges probably will not seek out an opinion, anyway.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Civil Rights Lawyer Can Do for You
A civil rights lawyer focuses on protecting individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by government authorities, employers, or private organizations. These lawyers specialize in cases involving discrimination, police misconduct, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws, such as the Civil Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Fair Housing Act.
Whether you've been discriminated against due to race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics, or you believe your civil rights have been violated by a government entity, a civil rights lawyer can help you seek justice, hold wrongdoers accountable, and secure compensation for any harm you've suffered.
When Should I Hire a Civil Rights Lawyer?
You should hire a civil rights lawyer when your constitutional rights or other protected rights have been violated, and you need legal assistance to seek justice. Some key situations in which you may need a civil rights lawyer include:
- Employment discrimination: If you have faced discrimination at work based on race, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability, a civil rights lawyer can help you file claims under laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Police misconduct or brutality: If you were the victim of police brutality, unlawful arrest, racial profiling, or other forms of misconduct, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit for violations of your Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
- Freedom of speech or assembly violations: If your First Amendment rights to free speech or peaceful assembly have been restricted by the government, a civil rights lawyer can represent you in challenging the violation.
- Housing discrimination: If you’ve been denied housing or faced unfair treatment due to your race, ethnicity, gender, or disability, a lawyer can help you file a complaint under the Fair Housing Act.
- Voter rights violations: If you believe your right to vote has been unfairly suppressed or you’ve faced discrimination in the voting process, a civil rights lawyer can help you fight for your rights.
- Disability rights violations: If you’ve faced discrimination in accessing public spaces, employment, or services due to a disability, a lawyer can help enforce your rights under the ADA.
- LGBTQ+ rights violations: If you've experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or public services, a civil rights lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
Hiring a lawyer early on can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case to protect your rights.
What Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Do?
A civil rights lawyer provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals whose rights have been violated. Their work can include:
- Filing lawsuits: A civil rights lawyer can represent you in court by filing lawsuits against individuals, businesses, or government entities that violated your rights.
- Advocating for policy changes: Civil rights lawyers often engage in advocacy work, pushing for reforms to laws and policies that infringe upon people's rights.
- Representing clients in discrimination claims: These lawyers help clients file claims with federal or state agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Negotiating settlements: In many cases, civil rights lawyers work to negotiate settlements for their clients before a case goes to trial, securing compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, or legal fees.
- Defending freedom of expression: Lawyers may represent clients whose rights to free speech, assembly, or protest were violated by government restrictions or other actions.
- Handling appeals: If your civil rights case has been decided but you wish to appeal the ruling, a civil rights lawyer can help you through the appeals process.
How Are Civil Rights Lawyers Paid?
Civil rights lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Contingency fee: Many civil rights lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage (usually 25% to 40%) of the settlement or damages awarded.
- Hourly rate: For cases that require extensive legal research or litigation, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Pro bono or sliding scale: Some civil rights lawyers or organizations may work on a pro bono (free) basis or use a sliding fee scale for clients who cannot afford typical legal fees.
- Flat fee: In specific cases, a lawyer may charge a flat fee for services like drafting legal documents or filing a complaint.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a civil rights lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal issue. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fee cases: For cases taken on a contingency basis, the lawyer’s fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or judgment awarded.
- Hourly rates: Many civil rights lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For straightforward legal tasks, such as filing a complaint with a government agency or drafting legal documents, flat fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Pro bono work: Some civil rights lawyers or nonprofit organizations provide free legal representation in certain cases involving important constitutional or civil rights issues.
Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation to understand the financial commitment involved.
Top Questions to Ask a Civil Rights Lawyer
Before hiring a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with civil rights cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s employment discrimination, police misconduct, or First Amendment violations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case. -
What is the likelihood of success for my case?
Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues. -
What is the timeline for resolving my case?
While exact timelines can vary, ask for an estimate of how long your case may take, from filing to resolution. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may work on parts of your case, so it’s important to know who will handle your legal matter directly.
How to Check the Credibility of a Civil Rights Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable civil rights lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for specific civil rights experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in civil rights law and have a history of handling cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience with civil rights cases.
- Check for advocacy or nonprofit work: Lawyers involved with civil rights organizations, such as the ACLU or NAACP Legal Defense Fund, may have a strong reputation in the civil rights legal community.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A detailed account of the violation: Provide a written summary of the events, including dates, times, and any people involved in the violation of your rights.
- Documentation and evidence: Bring any supporting documentation, such as emails, letters, photos, or video footage that may help prove the violation of your rights.
- Records of complaints or reports: If you’ve filed complaints with a government agency or reported the violation, bring copies of those documents.
- List of questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes of your case.
- Information on damages or harm: Be prepared to discuss the harm you’ve suffered due to the violation, such as emotional distress, financial loss, or physical injury.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
