Best Civil Rights lawyers in Pennsylvania

907 Civil Rights Lawyers in Pennsylvania

>907

experienced lawyers

Shannon Katherine McDonald

27 S. Darlington St, West Chester, PA

Appeals Business Civil Rights +1 +4

3.6/5

3.6

3 Reviews

01 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous

I hired Attorney McDonald for an appeal of a condo association matter. Despite holding herself out as an appeal attorney, she initiated the appeal in the wrong court! She also drafted the appeal at the last moment despite having months to do so. Needless to say, I was not successful in my appeal. When I decided to exhaust my remaining appeal opportunity to the Pa. Supreme Court, McDonald refused to represent me and gave me incorrect advice telling me that I had 90 days to initiate an appeal when in reality I had only 30 days. While the appeal was going on, McDonald also prepared extensive litigation with numerous counts against 15 defendants involved in my condo association dispute. Every single count was dismissed by the court against each and every one of the 15 defendants before trial because each and every one of McDonald’s legal arguments was deemed to lack legal merit! Not one of the counts was even tried as each and every count was dismissed prior to trial because there was not enough legal substance to her arguments to warrant a trial! The judge stated that many of the issues had already been litigated in the prior case! And Attorney McDonald either knew or should have known this because she handled the appeal of the prior case! McDonald even filed counts against the condo association’s attorneys, which any legitimate attorney will tell you that you cannot do! McDonald lead me on a wild goose chase in this matter. I only found out there was no legal merit to all of the court filings that she prepared after the cases were dismissed through preliminary objections and motion for summary judgment! McDonald would not refund any of the thousands of dollars of legal fees that I paid to her. She then refused to participate in binding arbitration per the terms of our agreement which she herself drafted. STAY FAR FAR AWAY FROM ATTORNEY MCDONALD!

30 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous

I had a minor incident with the police and she Kept it to a small incident.

14 Dec, 2011 by Cassie

Ms. McDonald is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. She was very helpful to me after my car accident and got me the settlement we both felt I deserved. She was more then willing to put in extra hours for research, and once she even drove 4 hours just to sit with me in court for 20 minutes. She kept me involved throughout the process of settling our lawsuit and responded to my emails the same day i sent them. She kept me appraised about what she was doing for me and also kept me informed about the other sides actions. She was very patient and willing to help me understand what all the legal stuff I didn't understand meant. Hiring Ms. McDonald was the best decision I made after my accident!

Faye Riva Cohen

2047 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA

Child Custody Civil Rights Family Law +1 +4

3.6/5

3.6

3 Reviews

25 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous

If you want solid, legal counsel, that will actually help you, look elsewhere.

09 Oct, 2020 by Tom

I was terminated from my company after many years of service and I needed help! Faye and her team quickly reached out to my former employer and made sure that I received full retirement benefits including pension and health care, plus some severance pay. The legal process is long and tedious but Faye and Jim Cushing skillfully guided me through the process to a completely satisfactory result. Thanks Faye!!! You are awesome!

29 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous

Towards the end of a very difficult employment legal battle, I sought out another attorney to get a second opinion on my case and release documents. I am so lucky my search led me to Faye Riva Cohen! Recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association & highly rated on Avvo, Faye was quickly able to make sense out of all of the nonsense. She was understanding and patient…but more importantly she listened! She wants what’s best for her clients…not what’s quickest, easiest or best for the firm. I highly recommend Faye Riva Cohen. I only wish I found her sooner! She will certainly be the first attorney I call should I find myself in another unfortunate situation & need legal advice or counsel. A breath of fresh air, in the legal world of doom & gloom. Thanks Faye!

Karin Romano Galbraith

301 Grant Street Suite 1150, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Government Insurance +3

3.5/5

3.5

2 Reviews

17 Aug, 2011 by Ccs

Absolutely did the best job possible under extreme circumstances. Always kept me abreast of the situation, listened to my point of view, but ultimately chose the correct path for the company.

18 Nov, 2009 by Steve

Knows her stuff as well as any other lawyer, but I didn't agree with or like her approach. Not very friendly and difficult to reach.

James Kent Paulick

525 William Penn Place, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Litigation +3

3.4/5

5.0

4 Reviews

2.2

5 Reviews

29 Nov, 2022 by Moms justice

Dan Glasser isn't a good lawyer. I do NOT recommend him. He wasn't prepared for the trial. He yells at his own clients during the trial in front of everyone. He is very arrogant and thus isn't very effective lawyer. When you first talk to him, he presents himself as a very good lawyer but very soon you'll realize that it's just a show and in reality he isn't good.

28 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous

When I approached James for representation, I already had confidence in his abilities through word of mouth. He immediately laid out all possible consequences. He understood the problem, and in being honest with him about the charges Brought against me, he laid out all possible angles and paths we could follow to minimize the sentencing while, understanding I needed to be prepared for the worst. He was easy to contact with questions and would give clear answers at each step in the process. At every appearance required by the state, he came prepared, based on his knowledge of the of the process, in conjunction with the charges. This made me feel comfortable and confident in his abilities. He made it so that the legal jargon, was easily understood for me, the average citizen. In my situation, he was able to obtain the best possible outcome, through vast knowledge preparedness, and open lines of communication. Hiring this firm was one of the best describe I have made in my adult life.

29 Jun, 2020 by Candace

James took the time to help me understand my situation, I felt he truly cared about what I was going through. A very kind person and I would recommend him if you want a lawyer who cares.

Mark D. Feczko

535 Smithfield St, Pittsburgh, PA

Appeals Civil Rights Government +2 +5

3.3/5

3.3

37 Reviews

17 Jun, 2024 by G b

Excellent firm. Guided us for years, and we cannot be happier!

26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock

I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁

18 Sep, 2023 by Sam mccrossin

I hired Frank Kosir.jr unfortunately for a dispute with CSX railroad unfortunately. All this man did is take my money with no action. I paid for a complete deed search and after he completed it, I was told I have no rights to cross the railroad tracks. I took maters into my own hands and did a deed search on my own and found all my rights that he said I did not have. I do not understand how I was able to find all my rights with no experience in this field after paying this firm. He wasted over 7 months of my time with no action. I was charged thousands of dollars with no action. I feel this man is corrupt, be careful

Robert Jeremy Levant

538 Spruce Street, Scranton, PA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense +2

3.1/5

3.2

4 Reviews

3.0

4 Reviews

27 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous

We hired Lavant and were impressed by his record from Philadelphia, he made it sound like we had an open and shut case. He said we could not get a better defense in Pa. He had us pay extra for 2 investigators that produced nothing. He talked about how he was so much smarter than the district attorney and there was a reason they were where they are. In the beginning he was very involved with us and slowly lost interest in our case. At the end we could rarely get a return call or text from him. When we went to trial he didn’t seem to have any preparation for cross examination and absolutely no closing argument, I was shocked. His client is doing many years for a felony that should have been a misdemeanor. We are now under appeal with a good attorney. Do not hire this attorney!

17 Sep, 2022 by Nevaeh rosencrance

04 Mar, 2020 by Debraann debra

Be very careful with this attorney! Make sure you check with other attorneys in the area for the cost of a case similar to yours. He definitely over charges! He must think he is still in Philadelphia. Reels you in with big talk and after you sign on he “implores” you to take a plea deal even if your innocent. Then has the nerve to get mad at you when you refuse the plea. What’s the point in paying thousands of dollars for a lawyer to fight your case for you if he is just going to beg you to take a plea deal. Seriously you can do that for free. We did go to trial! He did not present all of our evidence and was still found not guilty. And he wanted me to take a plea deal where I was looking at many many years in prison. All I can say is WOW! Hope this helps. Good luck!

Scott Lewis Melton

300 Ninth Street, Conway, PA

Car Accident Civil Rights Medical Malpractice +1 +4

+1 (724) 390-0062

3.0/5

3.0

4 Reviews

07 Jul, 2023 by K.

Attorney Melton does not practice in the area of my needs, but was so very kind to provide me useful resources to continue my pursuit. He is much appreciated.

27 Sep, 2017 by Pamela

Attorney Scott Melton is skilled at wasting your time. He will seem very nice and supportive, in the beginning, then treat you like he could care less about you. He said he would probably take our case in January 2017 and then would not return phone calls or emails until September 2017. He left a message on my answering machine saying he would not take the case. So rude!

22 Sep, 2017 by Tiffany

Scott Melton is a wonderful, caring man with a heart of gold. He took my case knowing full well it was an uphill battle. And what attorney does that?! Takes a case even though they realize they will likely lose money? He tried tirelessly throughout and kept me updated at all the critical points of the case. He always talked to me with honesty, admiration and with the utmost respect. Even though my case wasn't strong enough to recieve a settlement, he was gentle and thorough in his explanations of the "why" to me in a way that made me ok with the outcome. Highly recommended if you want an attorney that truly puts his client first & pushes through with resilience rarely seen these days. Thank you Scott Melton :)

Carey Lynn Cummings

625 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA

Business Civil Rights Personal Injury +1 +4

3.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

2.3

3 Reviews

01 Feb, 2023 by Erik oas

These people are union busters

12 Apr, 2022 by Eric g

14 Jan, 2020 by Joe goss

Good place to eat

Thomas Odell Fitzpatrick

1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

Business Car Accident Civil Rights +4 +7

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

31 Mar, 2024 by Mw

Mr Issac Green is a Crook. This lawyer is a crook. Please do not hire him. If you do hire him because you think he will win your case make sure all your work that's needed is done upfront by him he did nothing on my case. He overcharged me for work that I've done myself he's a crook. Him and his associate Mr. Dean Owens two crooks. I don't know how they're still in business. Save your money and find somebody else run fast. He's in an office Down at liberty Place in Philadelphia with Mincy & Fitzpatrick. I can't even believe they're in business with such a crook and a thief.

10 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous

Before I met Mr. Fitzpatrick I was being accused of a heinous crime from which I was not guilty Mr. Fitzpatrick assured me that all would be well presenting a confident and knowledgeable persona that assured me that he spoke the truth. Today I am a free man thanks to God and the skillful talents of Mr. Fitzpatrick Thank You.

Matthew Thomas Comerford

204 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Family Law +3

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

07 May, 2019 by Johanna

Okay turns out Matt isn’t reliable and actually is the worst I’ve ever had. He knows all the right things to say to string u along but wen it comes down to it, he’s only about money and will screw u at trial by not showing up. This guy actually had the balls to offer to help me pro-bono w/custody of my 2 yr old baby girl but never showed up to court on the day trial was starting. If I wasn’t able to come to an agreement w/my ex that day I could have lost custody of my child b/c of this twatwaffle atty Matt. How r u gonna offer to help me n then leave me hanging high n dry. I didn’t ask for his crap representation. U can’t just go around messing w/ ppls lives like that. Especially wen kids r involved. That’s just the lowest of the low. IF I COULD HAVE GIVEN HIM 0 STARS, I WOULD HAVE...

13 Aug, 2018 by Chris

I retained him for driving on a DUI suspended license, (Even tho I was found not-guilty on said DUI) but nevertheless I wondered into his office and retained him because he's known as a fighter in mostly the federal arena so he's not to worried about stepping on MDJ's toes he got the case tossed on a bad service, well he sent an associate to handle his dirty work which was my only issue with his services but he was probley busy trying to save some other poor soul. I'd recommend him.

John Beatty Bechtol

535 Smithfield St Ste 800, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights +1

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

15 Feb, 2020 by Karen allgeier

17 Aug, 2018 by Bob taylor

The K&L Gates Law Firm is threatening to sue a wonderful lady in Sigel, Pa at the request of a terrorist group out of California. Per news articles, many partners are leaving the firm due to their questionable practices.

Michael Handley

1100 North Providence Road, Media, PA

Business Civil Rights Family Law +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

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.

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.

Patricia Rose Andrews

1500 Ardmore Blvd Ste 506, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Estate Planning Litigation +3

2.5/5

2.5

13 Reviews

25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro

The individuals working here are absolutely amazing! I know it’s a strange thing to say due to the nature of their profession, but they are an exceptional group. I have had to contact them about property liens and delinquencies a few times and they have always treated me with kindness and respect. I am an anxious person and they have immediately put me at ease each time. They did everything they could to assist me with my problems and find a solution that doesn’t break the bank. I truly appreciate them.

08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson

We inherited a house and with that came a lot of new experiences, such as real estate taxes. I got a letter from them and called immediately. Someone answered and explained everything to us. I've actually called a couple times and all I can say is they are the best and super kind! They are working with us and it's been wonderful! Give them a call. They will work with you!!

22 Feb, 2024 by Morgan ison

Joseph William Cavrich

1500 Ardmore Blvd Ste 506, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Estate Planning Real Estate +3

2.5/5

2.5

13 Reviews

25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro

08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson

22 Feb, 2024 by Morgan ison

Lee Vincent Price

1500 Ardmore Blvd Ste 506, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Litigation +2

2.5/5

2.5

13 Reviews

25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro

08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson

22 Feb, 2024 by Morgan ison

William C. Andrews

1500 Ardmore Blvd Ste 506, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Litigation +2

2.5/5

2.5

13 Reviews

25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro

08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson

22 Feb, 2024 by Morgan ison

Wieslaw T. Niemoczynski

752 Main St, Stroudsburg, PA

Business Civil Rights Elder Law +3 +6

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

11 Dec, 2022 by Colette gross

Called left multiple messages... never received a call back.

09 Sep, 2021 by Darth_haterr

26 May, 2019 by Jolanta loranc

Very nice and helpful attorney

Elizabeth Rowan Marx

118 Locust St, Harrisburg, PA

Appeals Civil Rights Government +1 +4

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

07 Mar, 2019 by Brad alfieri

Great legal aid network

18 May, 2018 by Denise bedio

Basically a menu that doesn't offer any real help in finding legal representation. If you're facing civil matters you're referred to your county legal network but if it's a criminal matter then you're stuck with a crappy appointed lawyer that gets paid by the county so of course they are more concerned with getting paid by your fines rather than helping you.

16 Apr, 2018 by Megan lewis

Useless organization. They will provide you with no information or legal aid referrals.

Matthew Christopher Fergus

525 William Penn Pl Ste 3110, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Litigation +2

2.2/5

2.2

5 Reviews

29 Nov, 2022 by Moms justice

17 Mar, 2020 by Connie casne

We got an appointment with Mr. Glasser one week after I called. He was very thorough and told us what to expect as well as how we were going proceed. He took down all the information about the case and told us the cost of his retainer. Once he received the retainer, he got right on the case and everything was filed at courts within a week. He take such good care of their clients.

03 Dec, 2019 by Jason wolfe

Dan Glasser is a ruthless and atrocious lawyer who seemingly (to me) does not consider the effects on a child in custody litigation. Some people like ruthless and atrocious - if so he is your man. I admire his intellect (his accounting background is valuable), and ability to act (thus 2 stars and not 1 star). But in the end, the ones that suffer are kids...and he (and probably his firm) do not consider the pain caused to kids in my personal opinion. If you care about your kids steer clear. He will pit parties against each other to make money despite the impact on your kids. Email me if you want.

Steven Matthew Toprani

Leech Tishman Et Al, Pittsburgh, PA

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +1 +4

2.0/5

2.0

4 Reviews

18 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous

Steven went above and beyond our expectations as a lawyer. We hired him after our lawyer said there wasn’t anything that could be done for my husband, who was currently incarcerated serving on his sentence. So we took a chance when hiring Steven, but he came so strongly recommended by others, that we had to. Within two weeks of doing so, Steven was able to get my husband released from jail and serve remaining sentence on house arrest!!! We will never use anyone again!!!

10 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous

He promised me a large settlement and almost two years later I have nothing to show for it. He did such a bad job he was force to recuse himself due to various ethic violations. He filed several suits on behalf of our organization only to have them throw out due to ethics and procedural errors.

08 Jan, 2018 by Lindsey

Mr. Toprani was hired as my divorce lawyer, even though he is not specialized in family law he promised me that I would come out with my house and alimony. I have gotten no where with him and I am now drowning in debt and I am about to lose my house. Do not trust this man!

Leah Marie Wilson

500 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +1 +4

1.8/5

1.8

10 Reviews

15 Mar, 2024 by Steve malace

They screwed me over big time on my case a few years ago I would never ever trust this law firm never trust these people at all never again they are a joke as a law firm

01 Feb, 2024 by Chris james

They don’t care about their clients. Run from this law firm as fast as humanly possible. They are scum and will not answer your calls, questions or concerns in a timely manner. I paid them over 25k to be treated like trash. Never again will I use this firm.

04 Jan, 2024 by Ninja charles

They are helping me get back on track after my auto accident the case management team has helped out a lot from having there PI to gather evidence to support

Anthony Joseph Werner

500 Grant St Ste 2900, Pittsburgh, PA

Civil Rights Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +1 +4

1.8/5

1.8

10 Reviews

15 Mar, 2024 by Steve malace

They screwed me over big time on my case a few years ago I would never ever trust this law firm never trust these people at all never again they are a joke as a law firm

01 Feb, 2024 by Chris james

04 Jan, 2024 by Ninja charles

They are helping me get back on track after my auto accident the case management team has helped out a lot from having there PI to gather evidence to support

Andrew M. Calvelli

150 Strafford Avenue, Wayne, PA

Business Civil Rights Discrimination +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

18 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous

Mr. Calvelli failed to tell me that he did not have malpractice insurance when he took my case. He failed to timely file a motion and lost the case.

02 Jul, 2007 by Anonymous

I asked this lawyer back in March of 2007 to help me. He asked for 300.00. I dont know what he looks like neither do I know what he sounds like. I have to beg him for letters and to find out what is happening to my case. He promises to send letters to me and I receive nothing. I dont know if this man is real or not. Never get a lawyer over the internet, stick with the pages.

Carrie Elizabeth Worton

100 N Main St, Doylestown, PA

Bankruptcy Civil Rights +2

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

25 Feb, 2022 by Mark

Carrie Elizabeth Worton is the lead counsel for my upcoming criminal case where the County of Bucks has chosen to protect a severe child abuser who works for Judge Alan Rubenstein. The same judge Alan Rubinstein, who the same courts appointed to my custody case and the child abuse in 2013, which is a conflict of interest brought on by the courts themselves. The County of Bucks, including the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania never investigating the multiple calls I've made on behalf of my son who was severely neglected, abused, and with severe emotional issues. The County of Bucks top officials covering for this woman who tried killing my son and got away with it have turned their sites on me fabricating a arrest that never happened, entrapment, false police reports by Yardley Borough Police Department, newly re-elected District Attorney Matt Weintraub and County commissioner Diane Ellis-Marsiglius all protecting a child abuser under their employ. My clean record of 51 years has now been irreversibly tarnished by elected officials not fit to serve and protect our community, our Commonwealth, or our Country. My multiple attempts to protect my son from a child abuser was covered up by the county. Ms Worton's name appears on my criminal case. The Commonwealth is going above and beyond trying to put me away instead of ever investigating the multiple phone calls to child services for my son who still needs an MRI and CAT scan when his own mother failed to provide our son immediate medical attention at 16 months old laying lifeless, near death. 14 years of me reporting to every agency & nobody has called me back to investigate my son's near death experience, but I have an upcoming court date for just trying to speak to my son! I look forward to meeting Ms. Worton in court soon!

09 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous

I have never seen a more rabid feminazi inmy life. She is unethical as a result determined to destroy as many mens lives as possible. Permitting and allowing testimonies by drugs addicts who are visibly impaired on the stand. She is an assistant da in this one horse corrupt county.

Kimberly D. Borland

69 Public Square Suite 1100, Wilkes Barre, PA

Civil Rights Litigation Real Estate +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

10 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous

My voice was never heard. I requested four things, Kim did not ask for any of my requests. i I am disappointed in Kim Borland. It was only about the money to him. it was never about the money to me, I only wanted justice.

Deirdre A. Agnew

1450 E Boot Rd Ste 400 A, West Chester, PA

Civil Rights Family Law +2

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

06 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous

I engaged Ms. Agnew to draft a pre-nuptial agreement for me, which she did. While we were waiting for the other attorney to review, she charged me 49 cents for postage each month for multiple months to send me a bill stating that she did NO work on the agreement. Fairly excessive, considering I engaged her with a large retainer fee up front, and in good faith. Once the other party's attorney reviewed the agreement, it was determined (by that attorney, as well as another who was engaged as a third set of eyes) that the agreement as written by Ms. Agnew was unusable, and not enforceable in the state of PA the way that she had written it. In short, it needed to be completely re-written. Ms. Agnew refused to do that without charging against my retainer. (Despite the fact that the errors were in the document she created, and no fault of mine.) At that time, I sent an email requesting that Ms. Agnew stop work on the document (as I realized that she was grossly overcharging me, and I still did not have the enforceable legal document that I had paid her to draft). She then charged me $25 to read my one line email, and leave me a 15 second voicemail. I did not respond, knowing that she would again charge me excessively. In short, due to Ms. Agnew's negligence and incompetence, I had to engage another lawyer to draft an accurate pre-nuptial agreement. Ms. Agnew's egregious overbilling added insult to injury, as I have nothing to show for the large retainer I paid. Unfortunately, in this instance, I engaged an attorney who clearly is more concerned about lining her pockets than the best interests of her clients. I don't want that to happen to anyone else.

Mark Steven Polin

1525 Locust St Fl 19, Philadelphia, PA

Civil Rights Medical Malpractice Personal Injury +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

18 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous

the guy initially kept overcharging me Then I found out through the lawyers website, that I should not have been charged anything until I saw results. His actions were very swarthy.

Arthur D. Martinucci

2222 West Grandview Boulevard, Erie, PA

Civil Rights +1

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

26 Jul, 2010 by Suzanne

attorney over charged. many charges were checked on with insurance company and he did not perform services. poor follow through. poor communication. was not on top of things. did not thoroughly study case to know policy to help us through the process with the insurance company. Poor litigator.

Timothy Gill LaVoie

116 Allegheny Center Mall, Pittsburgh, PA

Appeals Civil Rights Criminal Defense +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

29 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous

Bum. Knows nothing. Will cut terrible deals however. Doing actual work or research on a case is suspect. My encounter was when he worked for the Public Defender Allegheny County and he forfeited my constitutional appeal rights because he did not research time limits and blew the statute. He never advised me either and I had to find out myself.

Jamie Kay Zurasky

655 Allegheny Ave, Oakmont, PA

Civil Rights +1

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

24 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous

I consulted on a civil matter, Ms. Zurasky was rude and had very little knowledge of the law. Her bedside manner was terrible. I do not recommend her for your needs.

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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.

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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