Best Civil Rights lawyers in New York

2,800 Civil Rights Lawyers in New York

>2.8k

experienced lawyers

Anne Frances Pizzo

3072 Brighton 1st St Fl 2, Brooklyn, NY

Civil Rights +1

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

5.0

1721 Reviews

10 Oct, 2024 by Gurami iobidze

The best lawyer and service! Thanks

10 Oct, 2024 by Viviana canate-molina

Excellent results!

07 Oct, 2024 by Kamala creighton

Great law firm , service was amazing !

Jonathan Lisante Hood

43 W. 43rd Street, New York, NY

Business Civil Rights Intellectual Property +3

5.0/5

5.0

11 Reviews

5.0

75 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Dennis sahai

Joseph represented my nephew Ronnie recently and was extremely dedicated and professional. His presented the case with such care and precision, the jury only needed 30 mins to find my nephew not guilty and this was after a hung jury in a previous trial. I would recommend him to represent anyone seeking justice and truth.

19 Feb, 2024 by Sean chung

23 Dec, 2023 by Poppy

Tara is a wonderful person! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Joseph Z. Amsel

43 West 43rd Street, New York, NY

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

75 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Dennis sahai

19 Feb, 2024 by Sean chung

23 Dec, 2023 by Poppy

Tara is a wonderful person! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Julie Ann Nociolo

28 2nd St, Troy, NY

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +3

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

5.0

61 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Emily yotter

James Knox took the time out of his busy day twice to speak with me about two cases, free of charge. After getting 2 letters from the JC, I was on the verge of a meltdown. Mr. Knox spoke with me about what to expect and how I could prepare myself for an investigation subsequent OP license issues if the cases were substantiated. He is definitely a friend of healthcare workers and I highly recommend contacting him if a fellow nurse has a JC case open.

22 Jan, 2024 by Amy davia corman

David Iversen and Mark Varble represented me during a difficult car accident and rehab. They were kind, knowledgeable, professional, supportive and always responded quickly to my emails. I definitely recommend David, Mark and the rest of the E. Stewart Jones staff!

17 Dec, 2023 by Tashona jamison

Excellent information and honesty

Mark Henry Pollard

30 Wall Street, New York, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Personal Injury +1 +4

5.0/5

4.9

19 Reviews

5.0

29 Reviews

01 Aug, 2023 by Alyssa estreen

I retained Moore Kuehn for a shareholder derivative case after my company stock lost substantial value. Justin Kuehn explained the shareholder derivative process up front and filed our case right away. They kept me updated with the case status and got me an incentive fee. Great firm for a shareholder derivative case!

20 Jul, 2023 by Scott edwards

Highly recommended. Moore Kuehn saved me countless hours of time, money and headache. Prompt responses and great legal advice. Kudos all around.

13 Feb, 2023 by Jeffrey chery

Samuel Okwudili Maduegbuna

30 Wall St Fl 8, New York, NY

Civil Rights Discrimination Litigation +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

12 Reviews

5.0

29 Reviews

03 Mar, 2024 by Amy

I had a fabulous experience working with Maduegbuna Cooper LLP. As a fellow attorney, I appreciated their professionalism and dedication to my case. In particular, Sam Maduegbuna impressed me with his understanding of the employment law issues, along with his practical skills while taking depositions. I would 100% recommend Maduegbuna Cooper LLP to anyone in need of employment attorneys.

27 Oct, 2023 by Natan

Incredible experience with Sam and his team. They were fantastic in areas of discovery, service and ultimately, delivering on their promise for a positive result. Highly recommend!!!

01 Aug, 2023 by Alyssa estreen

Anthony C. Cillis

Cillis Law, PLLC, Poughkeepsie, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

15 Reviews

5.0

18 Reviews

09 May, 2024 by Jon

First, thank you to everyone who provided a positive review prior to this one. Those reviews lead me to Anthony. After a great consultation at no cost I retained Anthony for a custody case and he was able to handle everything related to that case perfectly. Honest, fast responses, a willingness to be direct with me and a clear understanding of the law lead to a great outcome. I will not hesitate to use Anthony again. I had spoken with a number of local attorneys most of which seemed fine but Anthony stood out. Thanks again, Anthony. You turned a stressful, frightening situation into one that was easily handled and quickly resolved.

15 Mar, 2024 by Michael bennett

I retained him for his expertise in 2A law and was nothing short of grateful. He’s extremely fair and worth every penny. I cant speak highly about his integrity nor his ability to be successful while in your corner. Highly recommend him for any of your legal needs.

13 Jun, 2023 by Jay trunzo

Speeding ticket, serious violation (allegedly 31 over)...a mess. I reached out to Anthony, he responded immediately, I got him the info he needed, and that was it. My work was done. His was just getting started. Court date arrived, Anthony attended on my behalf (I did not attend). I received a fine and zero points. I was referred to Anthony by a friend who told me I'd love this guy, and she was right! If you need an attorney, this is The Man - period. He is responsive, understanding, efficient, and really (really!) good at his job.

Peter Joseph Famighetti

25 Melville Park Road, Melville, NY

Civil Rights Discrimination Litigation +3

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

5.0

26 Reviews

26 Jan, 2024 by Toni gojcaj

Erisa is the most knowledgable attorney I’ve ever worked with. She made my home buying process easy and took the time to explain our contract and every document I needed. She’s very professional and easy to work with I would definitely recommend her to all my friends and family.

26 Jan, 2024 by Michael celenza

Extremely knowledgeable, very reliable and helpful

30 Dec, 2022 by Michael trivigno

My wife and I were buying our first home and without Erisa’s guidance this process would have been very overwhelming. She was very knowledgeable and caught every little detail that we would have never caught ourselves. She was patient with us and answered every question we had. She was always reachable and most importantly throughout this whole process she made us feel comfortable and that we were being taken care of. We’re very grateful for Erisa and we would highly recommend.

Matthew B. Weinick

25 Melville Park Road, Melville, NY

Civil Rights Discrimination Litigation +3

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

5.0

26 Reviews

12 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

Matthew was extremely knowledgeable in civil service law and his knowledge combined with his enthusiasm helped me win my case! Thank you!!

26 Jan, 2024 by Toni gojcaj

26 Jan, 2024 by Michael celenza

Extremely knowledgeable, very reliable and helpful

James R. Marsh

151 East Post Road, White Plains, NY

Business Civil Rights Family Law +2 +5

+1 (929) 556-6036

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

22 Reviews

17 Jan, 2024 by Sam rodney

Choosing a injury firm for my car accident and or injury case was crucial to getting my life back, and I'm so glad I met Mr. Broderick and his legal team. Their approach immediately instilled confidence and trust in me. Throughout my case, despite the a couple of slowdowns in the process, Brandon kept me well-informed about every development and vigorously pursued the insurance company. They achieved a settlement that left me completely satisfied. Brandon Broderick's firm stands out for being thorough, proactive, highly knowledgeable in personal injury complexities, and always putting their client's interests at the forefront. I wholeheartedly endorse injury attorney Brandon Broderick for anyone needing an expert to help you get the best settlement.

27 Nov, 2023 by Samuel thompson

I am very impressed with the level of professionalism that I received while working with this law firm after my accident. I would recommend them for anyone who needs a top notch personal injury lawyer in White Plains, Thank you.

07 Nov, 2023 by Thalian rojas

Very helpful and explained the process in detail.

Barry Roark Strutt

One North Lexington Ave., White Plains, NY

Civil Rights Litigation Medical Malpractice +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

10 Reviews

5.0

7 Reviews

28 Oct, 2024 by Carliss carr

25 Jul, 2024 by Richard s

Evan is an amazing divorce lawyer who definitely gets the job done! Very high recommendation all around from price to attention to navigating the pitfalls and dealing with the craziness.

08 Apr, 2024 by Meagan furber

Joseph Andrew Costantino

632 Montauk Hwy, Copiague, NY

Civil Rights Family Law Real Estate +3

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

5.0

15 Reviews

01 Mar, 2024 by Juan pablo gordillo

02 Mar, 2023 by Kim iovino

Thanks again to the whole staff for helping us with our legal needs. It was a pleasure meeting everyone and we will definitely refer anyone who needs legal assistance to you guys.

14 Oct, 2021 by Janety adames

Great team. Joseph and everyone involved were very professional, friendly, prompt and to the point. Our transaction went smoothly. Great experience. I highly recommend this law firm.

Stephen D. Straus

Seven Skyline Drive., Hawthorne, NY

Appeals Civil Rights Insurance +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

738 Reviews

16 Sep, 2024 by Sushil mammen

Lee was great throughout the whole process and assisted me in resolving my ticket. Great communication and pricing was fair. Would recommend.

12 Sep, 2024 by Katherine richardson (krich)

Represented my son in a speeding ticket case - and got an incredible result!

12 Sep, 2024 by Igor grinman

Lee was great from start to finish. Extremely responsive, very fair pricing wise and overall very plesant to deal with. And just as importantly, got the job done :). Highly recommended!

Lisa Lynn Shrewsberry

Seven Skyline Drive, Hawthorne, NY

Appeals Civil Rights Insurance +3

5.0/5

5.0

738 Reviews

16 Sep, 2024 by Sushil mammen

Lee was great throughout the whole process and assisted me in resolving my ticket. Great communication and pricing was fair. Would recommend.

12 Sep, 2024 by Katherine richardson (krich)

Represented my son in a speeding ticket case - and got an incredible result!

12 Sep, 2024 by Igor grinman

Lee was great from start to finish. Extremely responsive, very fair pricing wise and overall very plesant to deal with. And just as importantly, got the job done :). Highly recommended!

Bryan David Glass

85 Broad Street, New York, NY

Appeals Civil Rights Discrimination +7 +10

5.0/5

5.0

10 Reviews

5.0

345 Reviews

07 Oct, 2024 by Fro pav

Maria Markou is the best lawyer not only for her strong legal ability and high ethical standards but also because she is a winner. She is the most loyal, dedicated, reliable and trustworthy person I have ever met. I feel so lucky to be her client. Thank you Maria for working extra hard in order to ensure our success, for your overall and continuous support and for always being there for us to talk and help us through all the challenges that come along in our life. You always go above and beyond and that is what makes your law firm services ideal and separates you from the rest.

03 Oct, 2024 by Patricia pelaez

Mrs. Maria Markou and her team helped me obtain my citizenship. Works very professional, responsive and is extremely experienced. Highly recommend!

01 Oct, 2024 by Georgia koedrou

MARIA MARKOU is the best. She has helped me many times and always successfully. She really cares and is there any time you need her .. MARIA MARKOU human true professional.. I love MARIA MARKOU

Matthew P Klein

360 Lexington Ave Fl 12, New York, NY

Civil Rights +1

5.0/5

5.0

263 Reviews

14 Oct, 2024 by David buhler

Gabriel helped us with an estate issue and was super helpful, quick to respond to any messages, very knowledgeable and reasonably priced. He really held our hand throughout the process and made everything easy for us. It was a pleasure working with him and we would highly recommend him to anyone needing help with an estate in NYC.

02 Oct, 2024 by Philip judson

Gabriel made the whole process very clear and easy for us and also managed to work with a more aggressive timeline. He was super responsive and transparent and a pleasure to work with. His website is extremely informative and helps give you most of the detail you need to know.

30 Sep, 2024 by Louise parms

Gabriel Katzner has been wonderful to work with, responsive, kind, and efficient, and I highly recommend his firm, Katzner Law Group, for Estate Planning. The process of gathering information, meeting on Zoom, going over summary documents, asking questions and receiving comprehensive information has been seamless. The whole process happened in a very timely and affordable way, and knowing that Gabriel and his firm are easily accessible for any future questions or concerns provides priceless peace of mind.

James Gilroy

1325 Franklin Ave Ste 500, Garden City, NY

Civil Rights Litigation Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

198 Reviews

21 Aug, 2024 by Gail dobbins

Fab! Used Law Office of Steven R Smith numerous times, with fabulous results. Also recommend them to Family and Friends. Never a complaint. And they as well used them when needed and referred to others as well. Thank You Steve R Smith totally Appreciate you and the Firm. Over 20yrs!

14 Jun, 2024 by Cindy march

Steven and his team were extremely responsive to my questions and concerns. There was not a time that Steven did not respond to any of my questions the same day. It took 18 months for my case to be settled and he kept in the loop the entire time. If it wasn’t for Steven’s kindness, I don’t think I could have done it.

14 May, 2024 by Julie s.

Sara Meyer was excellent! She was warm, kind, down-to-earth and explained everything in such a clear, understandable way. She was thoughtful, and really took the time to understand my needs and preferences. I've already recommended her to friends and family, and will continue to do so. Thank you for making what can be a challenging task so simple. I'm very appreciative!

Migir Ilganayev

139 Fulton Street, New York, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

10 Reviews

5.0

182 Reviews

08 Oct, 2024 by Eric sloan

These are incredibly smart and focused lawyers. When advising on the big picture, they don't lose sight of all-important details. And when they're in the weeds, the remain laser-focused on the over-arching objectives.

25 Sep, 2024 by Sean mckittrick

Incredibly professional, decisive and thorough attorneys. I could not recommend them more. I feel bad for anyone going up against them.

25 Sep, 2024 by Ray mansfield

Knowledgable, thorough and professional

Max Jacob Silverberg

1 Fordham Plz Rm 907, Bronx, NY

Civil Rights Medical Malpractice Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

5.0

189 Reviews

03 Oct, 2024 by Gerardine cizmar

Speaking with Mr. Macaluso was a pleasure. He took the time to listen to my concerns and provided me with the answers I needed to proceed in the right direction with my issue. Very nice man.

04 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine k

Attorney Macaluso provided great legal advisement. He thoroughly reviewed and evaluated the complaint, provided further detailed view of the circumstance, and provided steps to make the situation better, thank you for assisting us.

21 Jun, 2024 by Zenon hdez

Hola.quiero dar las gracias por el apoyo que recibi,desde el primer día que contacte a el equipo legal de Macaluso, el muy amable, sin conocerlo me dio esa confianza y sentí que estaba en buenas manos .nunca había tenido un accidente de carro yno sabía que hacer ,laparalegal Erica muy amable me ayudó ,contestó mis preguntas y aveces me llamaba para decirme que hacer, muchas gracias también ala recepcionista ,en general a todos después de un año ganamos el caso. En hora buena gracias sr Macaluso .Dios bendiga a todos

Scott Brandon Richman

630 Third Avenue, New York, NY

Appeals Business Civil Rights +4 +7

5.0/5

5.0

11 Reviews

5.0

163 Reviews

13 Aug, 2024 by Amanda heskett

Robert was fantastic to work with and answered all the questions I had about the process. He helped me make sure that I had everything in order and I felt very comfortable and secure in the whole filing process. Highly recommend.

09 Aug, 2024 by Javier cruz

If you are hesitating about filing, do yourself a favor a call Mr. Fox's office and schedule at least a consultation. I had called a few others prior and felt either pressured or patronized, Robert was neither, no pressure, no judgment. Very understanding, clear, factual, very kind, and professional; He patiently answered all my questions when we spoke and later follow up ones. Him and Iris made the process less stressful, and in a way, simpler than I ever expected. Grateful to have found him and his office.

08 Aug, 2024 by M. sow

I usually don't write reviews, but I just had to for The Law Offices of Robert M. Fox. Let me tell you, after searching for weeks for the best lawyer for my needs in the city, I hit the jackpot with Mr. Robert. He's an absolute pro and truly stands out as a beacon of professionalism and expertise in the legal field. The care and dedication you receive from Mr. Fox and the exceptional Iris Tavares, are unmatched. What sets The Law Offices of Robert M. Fox apart is their commitment to accessibility and communication. Whenever I reached out, they responded quickly, providing clear and concise answers every time. Their transparency and reliability truly demonstrate their dedication to client satisfaction. This place offers a perfect blend of professionalism, empathy, and efficiency that's hard to come by. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.

Michael LoGiudice

2022 Route 22 Ste 105, Brewster, NY

Car Accident Civil Rights Personal Injury +1 +4

+1 (866) 754-1408

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

5.0

138 Reviews

5.0

2 Reviews

05 Sep, 2024 by Lauren sangalli

Thank you so much for helping me . All the staff is wonderful and I appreciate all you have done for me and making everything possible for me . He is very nice caring n very helpful .

21 Aug, 2024 by Marlo ulman

I contacted Mr. LoGuidice today regarding a legal issue my husband & I are currently dealing with. Mr. LoGuidice patiently listened with compassion to my account of what we're dealing with. Unfortunately, this is out of his area of representation. He was kind enough to recommend us to another attorney. He even took the liberty of txtg this other attorney our information as we were speaking. Fingers crossed, praying we can finally resolve this matter! Thank you Michael & God bless you!

27 Jun, 2024 by Sary sanes

Victoria Nicole Medley

260 Madison Ave Ste 1800, New York, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Federal Crime +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

153 Reviews

27 Jun, 2024 by Anna tsanto

Daniel and his office did an outstanding job for my case. They went above and beyond to make sure I will be happy with the outcome. Couldn't thank them enough! If you are looking for a real advocate for your case this is your guy!

21 Jun, 2024 by Francisco escalona

17 Jun, 2024 by Kareem hassan

There is no way for me to express how grateful I am for Ms. Sanderson’s help and service. She is truly a gift sent from god, she truly cares and will go out of her to take care of her clients and stand by your side. People like her are what give me faith in the American justice system because you can always count on her to do her best by you. She saved my life and I owe my second chance at life to her. If I can give her 10 stars I would, if you’re looking for council that you can trust to have your best Interest at heart, Ms. Sanderson is who I would recommend.

Thomas Henry Andrykovitz

260 Madison Ave Fl 15, New York, NY

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

153 Reviews

27 Jun, 2024 by Anna tsanto

21 Jun, 2024 by Francisco escalona

17 Jun, 2024 by Kareem hassan

Patrick William McGinley

260 Madison Ave Fl 21, New York, NY

Civil Rights Elder Law Government +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

153 Reviews

27 Jun, 2024 by Anna tsanto

21 Jun, 2024 by Francisco escalona

17 Jun, 2024 by Kareem hassan

Robert Alan Rosenfeld

260 Madison Ave Fl 21, New York, NY

Civil Rights Insurance Real Estate +3

5.0/5

5.0

153 Reviews

27 Jun, 2024 by Anna tsanto

21 Jun, 2024 by Francisco escalona

17 Jun, 2024 by Kareem hassan

William E. Betz

1225 Franklin Avenue, Garden City, NY

Civil Rights Family Law Litigation +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

5.0

102 Reviews

31 Aug, 2024 by Anthony palumbo

Luigi is the best of the best and one of the most honest Attorney’s that I know! He always has the client’s best interest first and he is as reliable as they come! I would highly recommend Luigi!

02 Aug, 2024 by Seda ozdemir

Luigi really worked his magic when it came to my case. I am not someone who usually writes reviews, but Luigi really deserves one!!! He always answered all my questions and it was very easy to get in touch with him!!! He always texted or called me back. He never made me feel less than. If I ever need a lawyer again, Luigi is the one who I would call!!

25 Jul, 2024 by Marie mcneill

Luigi Vigliotti represented my son for a traffic ticket. I was very happy with his services and the outcome was fantastic. He constantly kept in touch with me throughout the process. He was kind and he definitely cares about his clients. Anytime I would reach out to him he always responded. He made everything very easy and simple for me. I would highly recommend his services! He was a pleasure to work with and I would recommend him to family and friends. Thank you!

Michael Anthony Schillinger

142 Freeman Avenue, Islip, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

5.0

96 Reviews

06 Aug, 2024 by Tee lee

"I was in a difficult situation and facing serious legal troubles, but thankfully I found Michael Schillinger From the initial consultation to the final resolution,he was absolutely phenomenal. Michael is an exceptional criminal attorney who is knowledgeable, strategic, and truly cares about their clients. He took the time to understand my case, explained the legal process clearly, and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. Michael Schillinger is a skilled negotiator and a formidable advocate who is respected by judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement. He is also compassionate, empathetic, and always available to answer questions and address concerns. Thanks to Michael Schillinger my case was resolved successfully, and I can now move forward with my life. I highly recommend him to anyone facing criminal charges. He is an outstanding attorney who will fight for your rights and your freedom."

30 Jul, 2024 by Jill valente

I probably can't stress enough about how my interactions with Michael were beyond exceptional! I reached via phone and he was in court, but as soon as he had a moment, he called me immediately. I was able to give him a quick synopsis of my situation and he gave me advice for the immediate and then we spoke when he had more time. He even went as far as to follow up with me a few days after I had called to check in on me.

12 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer lau

I was incredibly fortunate to have Michael as my attorney and prepare my case with level of attention, commitment and professionalism, while providing me peace and mind and support. He is very compassionate, very efficient and someone you can trust. With his help, my case was dismissed quickly, and I could live a stress free. Moreover, he is not only professionals but honest and very friendly as well! I highly recommend him to anyone looking for incredible client care and great legal results.

Amy Adelson

43 W. 43d Street, New York, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Elder Law +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

75 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Dennis sahai

19 Feb, 2024 by Sean chung

23 Dec, 2023 by Poppy

Tara is a wonderful person! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Harry DeLong Lewis

43 W 43rd St Ste 257, New York, NY

Appeals Business Civil Rights +4 +7

5.0/5

5.0

75 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Dennis sahai

19 Feb, 2024 by Sean chung

23 Dec, 2023 by Poppy

Tara is a wonderful person! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Eric D. Levy

930 Grand Concourse., Bronx, NY

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

73 Reviews

16 Sep, 2024 by O guc

Attorney Thomas Boyle and colleagues at Maggiano law were extremely attentive to my needs and worked diligently for a favorable result in my case. İm grateful for their work and would highly recommend them.

10 Aug, 2024 by Felix m

If I could recommend anyone, it would be the team at the Law Office of Delmas A. Costin. Delmas and Dawn are exceptionally patient and understanding. When I needed representation, they delivered results. I am truly grateful for their help. Thank you for representing me.

29 Jul, 2024 by Joshua santiago

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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.

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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