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01 Aug, 2017 by Joy
Sherri had represented me for 6 months for a case where i was looking at close to 4 to 10 yrs worth of jail time, looking at that is something i was terrified about so i googled best criminal defense attorneys n i came across someone else but they handle a cases like mine so they referred me to Ms. Eyer she was on vacation when i contacted her but she immediately contacted me back she look at case n gave me the real the pros n cons n i needed that so i would know what i was facing, make a long story short after 6 months of count i was scared that the D.A. was determine to lock me up, but remember i was looking at 4 to 10 Ms. Eyer was able to get 1 yr probation n a anger management class she definitely worth hiring...if ur in n a difficult state she understanding, patient n there for her clients.
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19 May, 2014 by Susan
Sherri represented me in a matter within the last year. She obviously has a thorough knowledge of the law and I was impressed with her attention to detail. She got me the result I was hoping for and went the extra mile in order to do so. I've worked with a few attorneys in the past and she was definitely top-notch. I was especially pleased with how responsive she was to all of my questions. For all the work she did on my case, the fee was reasonable.
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11 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Berman is a very thorough and professional he answered all my questions and concerns, he even gave great guidance regarding my case. He solved my case promptly and perfectly for my own benefit. My best representation by far. I recommend him to you without reservations.
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20 Nov, 2014 by Mona
Mr. Berman was very patient and really paid attention when I explained my problem to him. He beautifully presented my case in court against a contractor I hired to renovate and build a wing on my house. Mr Berman won my case for me and I ended up not having to pay the contractor any of the non-contracted, extra fees he wanted to charge me. Mr. Berman was there for me and prepared me for the court experience so I wouldn't be nervous. He was professional and polite but very firm. I was happy to have him on my side.
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04 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
William Bonner has been extremely helpful in providing me with legal advice and counsel when I was given the responsibility of Power of Attorney for both my brother-in-law and sister-in-law about 2 1/2 years ago. I had no prior knowledge what this entailed and I knew Mr. Bonner through a mutual friend and sought his help in performing the duties as a POA. Within a short period of time, both family members died and I became the Executrix for the Estate which required a tremendous turnover in paperwork and added responsibilities that were unfamiliar and a bit overwhelming at times. Stocks and bonds had to be sold, untold trips and meetings with bankers, telephone conversations with brokers, insurance companies, and then the eventual sale of the home and its contents. The deed to the home was rather unusual and could have affected the agreement of sale, but Mr. Bonner rooted out the problem and used his legal skills to bring about a satisfactory conclusion for all parties at settlement. In addition, Mr. Bonner has represented my husband and myself recently in a legal matter with former tenants and has brought about a good and fair resolution to the matter. Because of Mr. Bonner's patience, legal expertise, counsel, and integrity, I would recommend him.
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04 Sep, 2010 by Ed baker
Mr . Paolino is one of the most knowledgable and tenacious Lawyers .He will take each case and fight tooth and nail to show his client was in the right .He also has other lawyers who are just as dilligent in their specified fields as him . I would highly recommend . Ed Baker
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17 Jun, 2024 by Adam kuhn
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02 May, 2024 by Anna n. jones
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06 Feb, 2024 by Connie coleman
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09 Feb, 2022 by Kaira geiger
I've contacted the office back at the end of January. On January 28th they requested documentation and just today 2/9/2022 I was told " oh the lawyer is too busy for your case. After damn near two weeks of waiting to hear something, as if my case was being looked into- I find this unprofessional and rude. They could've told me sooner, instead of stringing me along for almost two weeks.
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26 Jul, 2020 by Paul coy
Personal service for 35 years
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27 Aug, 2019 by Diane leahan
Actually, they were atty's for my Mom and they were very nice and helpful in explaining things to her!
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09 Apr, 2021 by Nichole
I retained Michael Handley's legal services in October of 2020. I fully trusted that he had my best interest at heart, and that he would fight to get me the best settlement, wrong. Months went by without a word from Michael Handley. When Michael finally reached out to me, it was by phone, a 50 minute chat about how, personal injury is not his field. Not even a phone call to the company the suit was against, not even a letter was sent. All this time wasted.
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27 Aug, 2015 by Jeffrey
I came to Michael for help with my DUI and everybody that I spoke to said I would lose my license and do some jail time and he was the only one able to get me out of losing my license and doing any jail time. I would definitely recommend my friends and family to go see him for any legal advice or to hire him.
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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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