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02 Sep, 2024 by Suante davis
My family and I hired Marcel as our attorney for a case involving the wrongful death of my mother back in 2020. As a 21 year old kid have never dealt with anything like this before; I can tell you it was very stressful, and I didn’t know how I was going to do it! Marcel was the best attorney to have supporting us throughout the last four years! Anytime I would call or text I don’t think I ever had to wait 5 minutes for a text back, and I don’t think I ever got his voicemail when calling. He made sure to keep me in the loop with everything he did and/or filed in the courts, he went the extra lengths to get information he needs, he made chapter books of notes to present to judges . It was something so amazing to see someone who wasn’t family fight so hard for us. Yes it’s his job I get that part but it was deeper than that and I could feel it with Marcel. Me and my family are satisfied with the work him and his assistant did for us, and I would recommend Marcel for any of your legal needs! GREAT PERSON & LAWYER
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rev. dr. darryl totty
I want to share an open letter with potential clients of Criminal Defense Attorney Marcel Benavides. My experience with Marcel Benavides has been a perfect example of jurisprudence. He has the skill, talent, passion, and care of a criminal defense attorney who genuinely seeks justice for his clients. It was a tremendous relief when Marcel adeptly navigated through bias and misinformation, along with media assaults, to aid my youngest child, who was ensnared in the criminal justice system. At the outset of my son's case, Marcel assured us that he would strive for the best possible outcome, even though the situation seemed bleak, and a conviction would likely result in jail time. For nearly two years, Marcel meticulously dismantled the prosecution's case and worked with masterful precision, ultimately achieving the best possible results for my son. The case was incredibly complex, but my son received no jail term or long-term probation thanks to Marcel's work. The challenging experience has reignited my belief in the American justice system. I am immensely thankful to Attorney Benavides for his exceptional competence and unwavering professionalism, and I will always be deeply grateful to him.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Dane fickes
All the good reviews are from 8 and 9 months ago and are fake.
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03 May, 2024 by Crystal chrzanowski
11 Mar, 2024 by Daniel ray lorett
19 Nov, 2024 by Nora gilders
25 Oct, 2024 by Money hands
How does the attorneys take my case, then I can't reach them, and the email and phone numbers don't work?
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23 Oct, 2024 by Veronika gjini
Would recommend Ross Gilders to anyone!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nora gilders
25 Oct, 2024 by Money hands
How does the attorneys take my case, then I can't reach them, and the email and phone numbers don't work?
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23 Oct, 2024 by Veronika gjini
Would recommend Ross Gilders to anyone!
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08 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I was really impressed with Dean the first time I talked to him about filing a defamation lawsuit against a social worker, and possibly a civil rights suit against some probation officers. He was excited and attentive - really gung ho - and also suggested that we might have a malpractice claim as well. I really did like him and wanted to work with him. When we met with him in person in October, I explained that I wanted to sign a retainer agreement and file the claim in January. He said he first wanted to conduct 6 hours of "legal research" to confirm the viability of the cause of action, and to ensure that the defamation claim would not be dismissed under immunity claims by the defendant. I was very pleased with this - it made me feel like he was genuinely concerned about not filing an unwinnable claim. I wrote him $1000 check on the spot and he told me he would get back to me in a week to let me know about the viability of the claim. A week later he came back with some initial research that that was inconclusive , and said he would get back to me with more in the next week after spending more time, presumably because he had not yet conducted 6 whole hours of legal research yet. Things quickly went downhill from there. SIX WEEKS LATER, after MULTIPLE CALLS he finally (and rudely - with an attitude) responded to my calls and asked us to come in to meet with him to talk about the potential of our case. Then, when we met with him, in person per his own request, he kept excusing himself from our meeting to take calls from other clients! Then he told us during this meeting that we didn't have a case because he though the defendant would be immune. I cannot comprehend why he felt we needed to meet in person for him to tell us this, rather than telling me in an email or over the telephone. It was a total waste of my time. Maybe he was trying to "use up" the leftover time I paid for, since he never followed up with any more research as he previously said he would do??? When I asked him what additional research he found to come to this decision, he circled back to the same inconclusive research he had sent me 5 weeks ago! Anyway, I found another attorney who wasn't full of it and we successfully filed and settled the defamation claim against the social worker. The defendant did try to claim immunity in a motion for summary disposition, and the judge ruled that she was not immune - so much for Dean's legal research and advice. Very disappointing, to say the least.
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03 Apr, 2020 by Kaye
I have met with a lot of attorney's for my legal issue, and Dean seems to be one of those that has grown a little arrogant as he seasoned. For Christ's sake the man would not even listen to me or my problem. He read some information I gave him and assumed he knew everything about my case and didn't even bother to talk to me again. I was quickly wrote off and deemed "un-helpable" and he didn't even know what I wanted help with. He also told me I had no options left when infact I did and was currently pursuing one of them, which lets me know he may not know as much as he thinks he does. Find an attorney who will listen to you and THEN let you know if they can or can't be of service. 0/10 Would not recommend.
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16 Feb, 2018 by William
Dean listened to my thoughts and opinions even though sometimes I needed to be re focused he remained patient with me and never made me feel as if my questions were stupid or insignificant . All and all he listened to me and built a winning case from what he took from our conversations and the evidence .To go threw a trial with all its moving parts takes a lot of grit and patience on all sides . He proved to me that he was the right choice in my suit
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03 Oct, 2024 by Katina sanders
No call back after returning a call for an intake. With All these bad reviews, it seems like I dodged a bullet.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Nosaj ila
01 Jan, 2024 by Sarah devantier
Never called me back after I submitted an online form. Sad, I used them before when Joe Golden was there. Now, they won't even return my calls. How disappointing.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Katina sanders
No call back after returning a call for an intake. With All these bad reviews, it seems like I dodged a bullet.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Nosaj ila
01 Jan, 2024 by Sarah devantier
Never called me back after I submitted an online form. Sad, I used them before when Joe Golden was there. Now, they won't even return my calls. How disappointing.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Katina sanders
No call back after returning a call for an intake. With All these bad reviews, it seems like I dodged a bullet.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Nosaj ila
01 Jan, 2024 by Sarah devantier
Never called me back after I submitted an online form. Sad, I used them before when Joe Golden was there. Now, they won't even return my calls. How disappointing.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Katina sanders
No call back after returning a call for an intake. With All these bad reviews, it seems like I dodged a bullet.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Nosaj ila
01 Jan, 2024 by Sarah devantier
Never called me back after I submitted an online form. Sad, I used them before when Joe Golden was there. Now, they won't even return my calls. How disappointing.
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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.
Top Questions to Ask a Civil Rights Lawyer
Before hiring a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with civil rights cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s employment discrimination, police misconduct, or First Amendment violations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case. -
What is the likelihood of success for my case?
Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues. -
What is the timeline for resolving my case?
While exact timelines can vary, ask for an estimate of how long your case may take, from filing to resolution. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may work on parts of your case, so it’s important to know who will handle your legal matter directly.
How to Check the Credibility of a Civil Rights Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable civil rights lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for specific civil rights experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in civil rights law and have a history of handling cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience with civil rights cases.
- Check for advocacy or nonprofit work: Lawyers involved with civil rights organizations, such as the ACLU or NAACP Legal Defense Fund, may have a strong reputation in the civil rights legal community.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A detailed account of the violation: Provide a written summary of the events, including dates, times, and any people involved in the violation of your rights.
- Documentation and evidence: Bring any supporting documentation, such as emails, letters, photos, or video footage that may help prove the violation of your rights.
- Records of complaints or reports: If you’ve filed complaints with a government agency or reported the violation, bring copies of those documents.
- List of questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes of your case.
- Information on damages or harm: Be prepared to discuss the harm you’ve suffered due to the violation, such as emotional distress, financial loss, or physical injury.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
