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06 Jun, 2024 by Spockstein adventures
My Employer went with this firm during 2020 For my immigration services to file the 485 Application, They charged 3X than any other competent law firms but they delayed my application delays and costed me 4 years and nothing helped. They were supposed to send on 10/22 but sent on 10/30/2022 because they sent along with other applicants but we paid more fee. we fed hefty fee for bad advices and we regret going with this law firm.Hope this helps to others(It was only one application from our firm and paid as good as 3 you can understand the pain)
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jeffrey
I was suspicious to hire Brownstien Legal because this firm only handles suits against NYPD. I was told by others Brownstien good, so proceeded. After city came back with offer I was shocked, A fraction of what I read other firms got for their clients. Being desperate for money and told if not accept offer I have to take case to another firm. Problem was if I did it would be outside the allowed timeline, because it must be started again, in essence made to accept offer. On Top of that Brownstien promotes Oasis financial which I wonder who is principal owner? Fees are high and they discriminate.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Paul
I can’t believe it’s been 8 years since my accident, and since then I been to other law firms . Which they explained to me that Justin wasn’t doing a good job and how I should sue him for the way he handled my case, when I spoke to him after leaving a honest review on here two years ago. He IMMEDIATELY called me and asked me to take the review down if not he WOULDNT be helping me with my case. The nerve to say that to me in a such nasty voice and as a threat. Well I never took it down and I guess he paid someone to take it down for him and paid other people to leave good comments for him. But the truth is he told me that him and Fred were not in business any more and not representing me on my case from 2016 . He is not trustworthy and not the type to keep you informed on your case. He tried to make me feel like he don’t know what to do with my case now and that Covid was the reason he didn’t do any work. The other law firm told me that they WANTED to take my case years ago for my accident and he called over there with his connections and stopped it . Telling them my firm did so much work for him please don’t take my client. I swear on my kids this guy in more fraudulent then a $3 bill. And I want him to know and the rest of these paid actors he got to talk good about him . Stop leading people to this guy. He not that guy. We all seen him on TED with the sorry childhood story to act like he got a heart. I heard his lame story and I can promise you he know how to look you in the eye ,lean in and give you that spoonful of I got game in a soft voice while staring into your eyes with a bunch of bologna behind it. Now since the last chat we had which didn’t take but 5 mins to get the last call from him maybe 2 years ago. Please take the review down he pleaded. Wait to I reach out to the BBB. He been on my case since my hospital bed in Jan 2016 and hasn’t produced results. As a matter of fact he added another lawyer to help to the case which I’m not going to mention his name. But that man has been trying to do something at least answering phone calls. Justin Blitz is like a Puffy Daddy that signs artists so nobody else can help put their music out and they become famous. He stopped their growth. If he can’t get a piece of the action than nobody can eat. WATCH out for him, I’m a regular amputee guy and he’s a this big time lawyer with 5.0 rating, LMFAO that’s not what I seen last time I came on here. He paying people for comments. There’s a God and he watching you and how you treat people. This guy is soul less. I asked him for the video footage of the train accident years ago and he never got the video footage for me and I didn’t see it until 2023 since 2016 and it was the other lawyer who made that happen. Don’t hold your breath and expect for Justin to help you. He wants to look good and play smart with his glasses on and his carisma but we who know really know. Be honest at least. One lawyer said you only spent about $5000 on my case or less from the work you did and that was in 2019 he told me that . He wanted to buy the case from you. Now you place me in a time sensitive situation not that Justin caring like I said. I could have been had someone else on my case years ago and not have to leave this comment in here. But you Justin want to be rude and treat me like less that a human being you never took time on my case . The time we went to that train station together was the only time you showed interest and that was when you first had me sign in to be your client in 2016. It’s about to be 8 years and I’m still suffering from my injuries. You should be ashamed of yourself . Fred told me to go get a job and not feel sorry for myself with a amputee leg. Now I finally got a prosthetic leg and got the will to got back to work and ended up in a car accident . So if that’s their idea of helping me . You better off going to a third world country and getting help. These guys are not professionals and your better off with someone else.
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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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