Lawyers map
>83
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
8 Reviews
5.0
12 Reviews
29 Jun, 2024 by Larrynh914
We had a situation where the Mother withheld contact from the Father. Amber helped in giving voice to our concerns with the Mother's criminal record, bizarre augmentative behavior and association with recent violent felons. In the end, with Amber's help, the Father did obtain primary residence for the good of the child.
Read more
30 Mar, 2024 by Jason batista
Cory was amazing to work with! He handled my situation very well ! I couldn’t have asked for better. He always treated me with complete respect and never judged me. He was a pleasure to have representing me. He got me the most desirable outcome possible for a pretty bad situation I was experiencing! I always felt like I was in good hands and he was going to fight as if it were for himself. He is extremely knowledgeable in his chosen craft and laws !! I would recommend Cory to anyone looking for a great attorney. Not only was he great in court, he was always very responsive and handled everything very quickly! 11 out 10 !!! Highly recommend!!!
Read more
02 Aug, 2023 by James
Amber is a very caring Attorney which is hard to find in the business! I promise you, you will not be disappointed! She helped me tremendously with my case.
Read more
09 Aug, 2023 by Sunflower fields forever
Our family did a 30-minute phone consultation with him, he was able to enlighten us on a lot of things. Thank you
Read more
26 May, 2021 by Kim gerow
Very pleased with the representation and outcome. Would recommend.
Read more
11 Sep, 2020 by Ashley sanco
07 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Richard Cleary’s office handled everything for our title work when we bought our house. I highly recommend him.
Read more
23 Apr, 2015 by Karen
Mr. Cleary's office was right on the job! His staff was knowledgeable and diligent about getting the work done. and out to the right people! Kept my involvement to a bare minimum, which is extremely important to me!He lifted a major weight off my shoulders! Thank you Mr. Cleary.
Read more
06 Dec, 2010 by Bill
I have used attorney Marchesi's services approximately a half dozen times over the past 15 years. He is approachable, attentive, and very results and detail oriented. My business involves police and corrections work, and often leads me into litigation. Mr. Marchesi has successfully defended me several times, staved off several other claims, and provided proactive advice which has kept me at work and away from the courtroom untold other times. His charges are more than reasonable, and very competitive with other attorneys. I highly recommend him.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
Read more
21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
Read more
21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
29 Jan, 2020 by Shakiri murrain
In my experience working with one of Perkins Thompson's software lawyers, he presented facts that allowed our business to sustain a competitive advantage while understanding the legal impact for the decisions we needed to make. Having him on our side was like having in-house counsel ready and willing to assist with a number of legal issues. When seeking a lawyer, it's incredibly important to have someone that is not only trustworthy but also experienced in the specific area of law that is needed. Our executive team would be happy to call on Perkins Thompson for our business related legal needs in the future.
Read more
29 Sep, 2024 by Rene bernier
I was very grateful to have attorney Roger Brunelle Jr to represent my significant other who was wrongfully jailed because of a comment made by his own brother and was being charged with a felony. When Attorney Brunelle started our case he started his research on my significant other and we won our case within 2 months time. He wasted no time at all. He really took our “very unusual “ (quote from the judge) case and took a personal interest in our lives. I’m so grateful for him. Also he has gone above and beyond after the trial was over to check in with us to make sure we were doing well and said we could contact him anytime if questions come up. I want so many people to hear about this attorney-HE IS AN AMAZING PERSON WITH A KIND HEART. I thank you again .
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Jonathan chaisson
Roger worked diligently on my case for three and a half years. From start to finish, he was nothing but the highest level of professionalism. Very punctual, very honest, and very deliberate. Didn’t sugar coat anything at anytime. Kept it 100%. In the end, Roger secured me the absolute best out come in a very serious situation. I wouldn’t have had anyone else handle this case. Roger is the best of the best. Don’t hesitate to call him for your legal issues!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Ory nkundabagenzi
Best lawyer ever and I was referred by my friend to Attorney Roger Brunelle. My case could not have had a better outcome and I am certain this is due to Roger's impressive mix of strong qualities. Not only is he extremely competent and professional,. He kindly guided me through the legal process, answered all of my questions and left me feeling very supported. I could not be any more confident in Roger's outstanding capacity as an attorney and I could not recommend him any more highly. Thank you
Read more
14 Mar, 2024 by Ash surrell
04 Mar, 2024 by Dj fenwick
He did an awesome, very professional.
Read more
13 Jul, 2023 by Michael coolidge
I had the pleasure of working with attorneys Wentworth and Boyd. At times I was concerned because it seemed like the case wasn’t going the way I hoped, but when it came to it, Dylan presented and argued my case to perfection. The paralegal team they employ are also amazing. They are quick and thorough in their responses and requests, saving time, money, and frustration like I’ve experienced with other attorneys. I would definitely recommend this team.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca spencer
24 Jun, 2024 by Simply me
I would never recommend Steve Smith for a divorce these reviews are fake (notice how they are all from the same timeframe) Steve Smith only stands up for criminals and abusers not the victims. He will gladly take your money because abusers will abuse the process and cost you dearly. When it comes to Steve Smith “himself”having to defend a victim of domestic violence he will fail by doing nothing for you and say “his team” created the best possible outcome. Steve should be ashamed of being a divorce attorney that leaves victims broke with no support and still at the mercy of their abuser months after the divorce is over. I’m hoping this review will stay here in hopes of letting other victims of domestic violence know that if they have finally made the decision to leave… Move along from hiring Steve Smith and don’t make another mistake.
Read more
11 May, 2024 by Dimitri floras
Wouldn’t recommend
Read more
16 Jan, 2021 by Kristina
He lied and said it was a class a felony and charged me for it. then did nothing on the case and charged me 5000.00 refused to discuss a return of my money during covid while I was being evicted and my mother had just died and I was newly sober. A horrible person and lawyer
Read more
09 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Wow !!! I was very fortunate to have Chris Nielsen & his wonderful staff on my side.
I was stopped in York, Me. for a suspected OUI ( 0.10 ). The Nielsen Group was hired and did a fantastic job of getting me thru the process. I was updated often by Chris & his staff on what was happening next.
Chris had the OUI charges dropped to a lesser charge. I am very pleased with the outcome & would recommend & the rest of the Nielsen Group to anyone who needs help.
J.B.
Read more
07 Mar, 2020 by James b.
Chris Nielson represented me for a DUI. He ultimately had my charges dropped. He and Joycelyn made the whole process much more understandable and far less stressful. I was impressed with how well Mr Nielson knew my case. I was also made to feel like I was their only client when he arrived in court He didn’t act rushed or bothered. Something he said to me still sticks and it was don’t say sorry to him. I refused the DA’s offer to settle and
Said sorry to him. He looked at me and said don’t say that!! It made me feel comfortable knowing he understood what I was
Going through.
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Terance gogan
Absolute professional, amazing commitment, dedication and communication. Goes above and beyond to understand and provide guidance and direction for any questions, concerns or issues. Would absolutely recommend to anyone without hesitation.
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Travis ward
Samantha is wonderful at her job. She is quick to responses whether it’s an email or phone call. Very knowledgeable about the law. She is also very easy to talk to and will talk you through things with issues. I very much recommend her and would use her again!
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Bernie damon
Samantha Baker. Really helped me out in a complicated international matter she’s the best
Read more
02 Sep, 2023 by Kellie mckay
17 Aug, 2023 by Erica lynch
Mariah is amazing to work with. Very caring and a strong advocate! Appreciate this program more than words can describe.
Read more
08 Aug, 2023 by Tomi minchin
There good program also puts on community things for information booths
Read more
27 Mar, 2024 by Kevin collins
Excellent pro bono counselors with this loyal firm. Saddened that other phony greedy firms, don't follow public interest on reliable needed Bangor lawyers.
Read more
13 Feb, 2024 by Nekole mcleod
David Walker was very professional and knowledgeable with my cases years ago. I highly recommend him at Rudman Winchell.
Read more
04 Feb, 2024 by John bates
If you require representation by a law firm with impeccable ethical standards, look elsewhere. If a cavalier attitude about the appearance of impropriety or being willing to subvert the will of Maine voters to achieve a business goal don’t bother you, then this could be the firm for you!
A staffer at Rudman Winchell posed as a 'concerned neighbor', interfering in a vote on a local ordinance by writing a letter full of misinformation in support of one of the firm's clients whose interests would be affected by the outcome.
This could not have happened without their knowledge. The lies were bad enough, but the concealment backfired. The advice they provided their clients was not effective; public sentiment went against them.
The client claimed in public remarks that the staffer had been let go prior to writing the letter but there's no evidence to support that, nor would that have made her any less of an associate.
But all that pales in comparison with their initial strategy, to push their client's proposal past an ordinance which was clearly meant to prohibit projects over a certain size. They built a house of cards on the existence of a minor wording error.
Be warned: after being defeated by the voters they still didn’t take no for an answer and tried to get a favorable decision in Superior Court, further wasting their client’s money. The meritless case has been dismissed.
Read more
15 Apr, 2024 by Dustin
I had been able to have the privilege to work with Bri several times, and she had been nothing but professional and great and got me the best deal I could possibly get. Great lawyer would recommend to anyone..
Read more
21 Feb, 2021 by Youknowwho
Attorney Kidman is not a competent attorney. She is childish and not very smart.
Read more
05 Mar, 2019 by Seth
I could write a novel on how amazing Bre is. They are professional all while balancing a great sense of humor while doing their work. Bre is flexible with styles of communication—emails, calls, in person. The Portland area has itself a gem in the ruff! I never had to meet with an attorney for a personal reason, but have encountered several attorneys when working in my professional capacity and when supporting friends...there is no comparison; Bre is not intimidating or condescending and made me feel like I’ve known them for years. I will absolutely utilize Bre’s services in the future if the need ever arises, and I will recommend them to everyone I know.
I enjoyed not feeling rushed out of their office once business was taken care of—it provided an opportunity to learn more about their scope of practice and interests and they listened with so much care and genuineness. Bre is, simply put, a ginormous breath of fresh air.
Read more
17 Apr, 2024 by Polly decesere
If ya can get someone to call ya
Read more
27 Mar, 2024 by Donny palmer
30 Jan, 2024 by Angel ventucci
Couldn't help me with my legal issues with a criminal defense attorney
Read more
17 Sep, 2021 by David
Attorney David G. Webbert failed to disclose that he had been a paid expert witness, for the Defendant’s (Walmart’s) Firm Bernstein Shur [BSSN], in a Legal Malpractice lawsuit against Bernstein Shur [BSSN], BCD-CV-09-07.
David G. Webbert aided and abetted Walmart, Inc. in Docket No. 2:15-cv-00484-DBH damaging the Plaintiff’s case.
Extensive reliable supporting evidence.
Read more
09 Aug, 2021 by Lois
Mr. Webbert is not only extremely knowledgeable, graduating from Yale and Harvard, but he goes the extra mile to assist his clients. He is always professional and makes sure you completely understand the process. Mr. Webbert is a kind, respectful lawyer who truly listens and gives 100+ percent for you. It is easy to see why he has a 5 star rating and has been selected for inclusion in the 2020 edition of the Best Lawyers in America!
Read more
14 May, 2013 by Mark
Mr. Webbert has a true passion for his clients and is a wonderful human being. He is worth his weight in gold and will make sure you are informed every step of the way.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Jake
Bob showed up to court over zoom in his car without any required documentation available, causing additional attorney's fees on both sides, both of which I had to pay, and a disadvantaged situation in court for myself.
Bob did very little to aid me or answer questions. During most phone calls he was unsure as to which case he was talking about, multiple times making statements about my case that were not about my case at all.
Bob submitted a reply to discovery that I did not approve of which I believe was made with the explicit intent to hurt my case.
I asked Bob for a meeting to discuss my case to evaluate if he was fit to represent me. Immediately after asking for a meeting he filed his withdrawal.
Bob failed to answer my questions about discovery, preventing me from being aware of what I needed to do, the repercussions, which I asked him about many times, were left unanswered.
Bob raked in attorney fees, failed to be available, failed to represent me as required by our agreement, and withdrew from my case abruptly during a crucial time to deliberately effect my case overall. He cost me 10's of thousands of dollars through his failure to represent me properly.
His overall demeanor was against my children and family in general and made comments about how "he would never be in my situation" despite my situation being caused by the actions of another person while I took care of my children. He's completely out of touch and cannot relate to his clients, if you're considering hiring him for anything related to family well being, divorce, or anything child related, look elsewhere.
Read more
05 May, 2022 by J b
Not family oriented. Bob was the opposing attorney In my divorce. In response to my motion he called me selfish in court document s because I wanted to *gasp* see my own children. Bob concocted this scenario l that I could not see my own children because of the pandemic and seemingly advised my ex wife to not exchange the children if they were coming to their home in MA. Despiite having arrangement for covid testing at Emerson Hospital Urgent Care, Bobs actions resulted in my children not being able to sleep in their own beds here at their house in Massachusetts for approximately 35 days.if you are a dad, caveat emptor. I feel badly for Bob's own kids.
Update to Bob's response: the key to the review is that it states I already had arrangements with Emerson Hospital Urgent Care for testing. They could quarantine or provide a negative test. Bobs own email states the same. Do you want this man telling you if you want to see your kids you have to drive to see them in a hotel instead of their own rooms? I stand by my review.
Read more
02 May, 2022 by Waylon holbrook
Robert was great. I appreciate his time and knowledge. He ended up helping me without the need to escalate things further. Thank you very much
Read more
16 Nov, 2023 by Gordon
Lenny said he had done divorce cases in the past, he also bragged about how he handled cases for the good fellows in New York witch was a lie, and then he denied he said it and called me a lier, he let the court clean me out and left me homeless, I had two houses and they gave them both to my X wife, all Lenny did was take my money, I lost everything including what the judge said I could keep, how does this even happen?? He kept telling me he needed more money for things I didn’t understand, I would never hire him again and I would not refer him to anyone unless I didn’t like the person I’m referring him to, if you hire him you better watch your back and your pocket..
Read more
21 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Not cheap but you get what you pay for, he knows how to get it done. To those who complain about losing a retainer after charges dropped, sometimes that's the way it goes. When a DA finds out he is on your side they may not want to fight against him in court knowing he is a formidable litigator.
Read more
03 May, 2022 by Glenn gamrat
Lenny Sharron is the consummate lawyer. I'm sure he is a great litigator in court, but so many of his cases are settled due to his knowledge to get the best results for his clients. THANK YOU.
Read more
20 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired George "Toby" Dilworth. Very poor experience. I hired an independent expert who produced exculpatory evidence. Toby didn't want to use it, but eventually said he would. He did not.
Read more
05 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney and paid him a fixed fee. Perhaps it was because the fee ended up not being enough, but towards the end of the process he was yelling at me. Literally. I would not recommend him. We also lost the case.
Read more
11 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
She failed to explain to me what agreeing to a family issue meant in the long. Seems to me now that she was helping my extra wife. She was intimidated by the other older more experienced woman lawyer. Wait ten years and maybe she might be good
Read more
21 Sep, 2014 by Jonathan
As a real estate broker I have dealings with many lawyers both good and bad. She is by far the worst. Very hard to get ahold of. Many errors in paper work. Just all around an unfit lawyer.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Maine - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Portland
-
Bangor
-
Augusta
-
Lewiston
-
Saco
-
Brunswick
-
Kennebunk
-
South Portland
-
Waterville
-
Ellsworth
-
York
-
Westbrook
-
Auburn
-
Biddeford
-
Falmouth
-
Yarmouth
-
Scarborough
-
Camden
-
Topsham
-
Rockland
-
Sanford
-
Bath
-
Damariscotta
-
Cape Elizabeth
-
Presque Isle
-
Belfast
-
Gorham
-
Hampden
-
Skowhegan
-
Wells
-
WINTHROP
-
Bridgton
-
Gardiner
-
North Yarmouth
-
Rockport
-
Brewer
-
Farmington
-
Freeport
-
Fryeburg
-
Lyman
-
Norway
-
Orono
-
Springvale
-
Houlton
-
Kittery
-
Raymond
-
Rumford
-
South Paris
-
Waldoboro
-
Windham
-
Caribou
-
Lincoln
-
Madawaska
-
Old Orchard Beach
-
Turner
-
Alfred
-
Bar Harbor
-
Boothbay Harbor
-
Bowdoinham
-
Eliot
-
Hallowell
-
Hancock
-
Hermon
-
Machias
-
Manchester
-
South Berwick
-
Arundel
-
Blue Hill
-
Cumberland Center
-
Cumberland Foreside
-
Fort Kent
-
Greene
-
HARRISON
-
Islesboro
-
Lisbon Falls
-
New Gloucester
-
Newcastle
-
Ogunquit
-
RANGELEY
-
Standish
-
Wayne
-
Wiscasset
-
Alna
-
Appleton
-
Benton
-
Berwick
-
Biggera Waters
-
Boston
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Maine
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Personal Injury
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Elder Law
-
Civil Rights
-
Intellectual Property
-
Insurance
-
Mediation
-
Tax
-
Workers Compensation
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Car Accident
-
Consumer Protection
-
Trusts
-
Bankruptcy
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Immigration
-
Divorce
-
Wrongful Death
-
Child Custody
-
Domestic Violence
-
Juvenile Law
-
Foreclosure
-
Discrimination
-
Employment / Labor
-
Debt Collection
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Federal Crime
-
Child Support
-
Class Action
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Adoption
-
DUI / DWI
-
Sex Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Construction
-
Debt Settlement
-
Entertainment
-
Copyright Application
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Wrongful Termination
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.
