Filter by

star star star star star
27 Oct, 2022 by Tony mango
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2022 by Robert sheffield
Excellent help
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Jun, 2022 by K rossin
1 in a million an incredible attorney The most caring and truly honorable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2024 by Tristan reiniers
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2024 by Ebony mcgill
Mr Kevin is the best, one of the coolest lawyers I’ve ever encountered. Him and his team were exceptional. The response time when I had questions and concerns were very fast and reassuring. I highly recommend this firm. I will forever recommend them. They will work hard to make sure you’re satisfied. Sending love and I wish nothing but winning cases to the whole firm ;).. They’re awesome.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2024 by Riley edwards
Ms. Cruz helped me during a very difficult situation and from the moment I met her she was an extremely enthusiastic and empathetic representative. It was refreshing to have someone fighting for the right thing rather than everyone just covering for themselves. I literally couldn't have handled the situation on my own and am grateful for the compassion. Best attorney in Tallahassee!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2022 by Tony mango
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2022 by Robert sheffield
Excellent help
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Jun, 2022 by K rossin
1 in a million an incredible attorney The most caring and truly honorable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Nov, 2020 by V mrs. v
Trustworthy, talented, motivated and dedicated defender of Civil Rights and fairness and equality in the workplace. Rick does not tolerate discrimination.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Mar, 2019 by Richard burrous
Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2018 by God's child riley
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2013 by Warren
I retained Robert 6 years ago for an appeal of a case which had dragged on for 5 years. He won the appeal handily. The case was remanded back to the lower court and Robert assumed that litigation as well, as he was familiar with the case. Robert brought the case to a successful conclusion, although it dragged on for another 5 years. Robert goes above and beyond the normal Attorney/Client relationship with constant communication and personal support.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2013 by Sue
I am very happy and thankful to Robert Rivas for all of his help. Quick response to emails and phone calls. Professional, courteous, knowledgeable and understanding. I trust him and I trust what he says. I have, and will continue to follow any advice that Robert gives me. I would definitely recommend Robert Rivas to all my friends and colleagues.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2013 by Wendell
I have known and worked with Robert Rivas as President of Final Exit Network for the past two years. Final Exit Network is a 501 (c)(3) organization, devoted to providing mentally competent persons who become members information on how to end their lives peacefully, painlessly, and quickly when they are suffering from an irreversible medical condition that is more than they can bear. We also offer a compassionate presence to any member who chooses to end his or her suffering. Authorities in GA, AZ, and MN have brought charges against our volunteers and Final Exit Network as violating their laws against assisted suicide. We believe, and we publicly state, that we do not violate laws against assisted suicide. Robert has lead our defense teams in all three jurisdictions, as well as personally argued on behalf of our volunteers and the organization, and has brought us to victory in GA and AZ. The legal issues in MN are ongoing, but we have good reason to believe that our team will also prevail there. On top of his legal knowledge and acumen, Robert is articulate, circumspect, trustworthy, a fine writer and editor, and a pleasure to work with.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2015 by Edward
Katherine did amazingly well case handling in my legal interest as a matter of fact Katherine did a victorious job, and set an era of recognition in case history.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Mar, 2015 by Paul
I have personally known Katherine for many years now. During that time I had an issue arise requiring legal assistance. Katherine proved to be extremely knowledgeable and provided proper guidance while calming my fears of future implications. Her strengths include a high energy and positive approach guided by her tenacity and attention to detail. I would not hesitate to employ her skills should the need arise again.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Cecil Davis was an outstanding attorney who was patient, organized, helpful and informative. He and his staff are hardworking, responsive and professional. We are extremely grateful for his assistance in resolving our case successfully. I highly recommend Cecil Davis.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2020 by Da. thunder
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Oct, 2020 by John greco
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Oct, 2020 by Dean filippi
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2024 by Ariane mujica
Mi abogado superó mis expectativas con sus servicios legales. Muy bien informado, eficiente y dedicado a las necesidades de sus clientes. Recomiendo a Smith & Eulo el mejor bufete que pude encontrar, nunca dude que todo saldría bien a mi favor y lo logramos gracias al profesionalismo de mi maravilloso abogado
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2024 by Anubis orellana
Smith & Eulo han sido un verdadero apoyo en un momento difícil. Su dedicación y experiencia me brindaron tranquilidad. Siempre estuvieron disponibles para responder a mis preguntas y preocupaciones. Lograron resultados sobresalientes en mi caso y los recomiendo a quienes necesiten una representación legal sólida.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Miriam brito
Si pudiera calificar a Smith & Eulo Law Firm más alto que una reseña de 5 estrellas, lo haría. Tuve un gran apoyo durante todo mi proceso, son muy rápido en responder, proporcionó una excelente orientación y explicaciones al desglosar las cosas para que yo las entendiera a fondo. Recomendaría sus servicios, definitivamente acudiré a él nuevamente si es necesario en el futuro
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2024 by Ariane mujica
Mi abogado superó mis expectativas con sus servicios legales. Muy bien informado, eficiente y dedicado a las necesidades de sus clientes. Recomiendo a Smith & Eulo el mejor bufete que pude encontrar, nunca dude que todo saldría bien a mi favor y lo logramos gracias al profesionalismo de mi maravilloso abogado
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2024 by Anubis orellana
Smith & Eulo han sido un verdadero apoyo en un momento difícil. Su dedicación y experiencia me brindaron tranquilidad. Siempre estuvieron disponibles para responder a mis preguntas y preocupaciones. Lograron resultados sobresalientes en mi caso y los recomiendo a quienes necesiten una representación legal sólida.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Miriam brito
Si pudiera calificar a Smith & Eulo Law Firm más alto que una reseña de 5 estrellas, lo haría. Tuve un gran apoyo durante todo mi proceso, son muy rápido en responder, proporcionó una excelente orientación y explicaciones al desglosar las cosas para que yo las entendiera a fondo. Recomendaría sus servicios, definitivamente acudiré a él nuevamente si es necesario en el futuro
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jun, 2024 by Tony jones
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2023 by Race smith
Worked with Steven, he is an excellent defense attorney.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2020 by K shelby anderson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2024 by Lucas r.
Stephen and Louis are very knowledgeable and professional. They're very diligent and truly have your best interest in mind. I absolutely trust these men with my life.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Feb, 2024 by De'asiiaa erviin
Great communication , very understanding , quick , Low fees and I felt like he cared about me and my justice not just money
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2024 by Tameriah mcgill
Mr. Baptise is highly professional, has strong communicative and listening abilities. He’s understanding, caring, and ensures the best quality possible. Thank you!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2024 by Allison johnson
These are some of the best people I’ve ever met. They truly care about you and your situation and want to fight for you.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 May, 2023 by Benjamin bloodworth
I'd never been involved in a law suit before. Vincent was able to guide me through the process and explain what to expect at each step of the way. He helped me resolve a contract dispute successfully.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Aug, 2022 by L tc3
Mr. Locurto was our attorney against an awful construction company. They took a very large deposit. As hurricane survivors we had to battle our home insurance, but by the time that case was resolved, the construction company quit. That was our good fortune. Construction company #2 was aghast at what was done---was never inspected, everything against code, etc. Company #1 refused to return any money. With skillful negotiations, Mr. Locurto was able to show them the error of their ways and why we'd prevail if we ever took them to court. They settled without us having to file. This took months, but Mr. Locurto never let up standing up for us and pushing. He kept us informed of our costs and worked very hard to keep our out of pocket at a minimum. And yes, we went into this furious, and he tempered our riteousness with logic. We were updated at every step and cc'd on all correspondence, so there was always the feeling of working as a team. He fights hard the entire time, and we really felt that we'd found the absolute best lawyer for the situation.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Kathy willis
Adam is by far the most competent attorney I have ever retained. His compassion for my daughter and her situation was exemplary. I had low expectations as to what the outcome of this case was going to be, Adam changed that. This family is grateful for Adam and his firm. I highly recommend Komisar - Spicola P.A.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jul, 2024 by Deianira (splintereddivinity)
Mr. Adam Komisar was very professional, understanding, personable, and helpful through this entire process. i don't think we could have chosen a better lawyer. his service was impeccable and i am so grateful for his help. i highly recommend choosing him as your lawyer if you ever find yourself in legal trouble.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Jul, 2024 by Stuart gustafson
Absolutely one of the best experiences I’ve ever had dealing with an attorney!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2024 by Eric pottschmidt
I am pleased to be able to write this review. In today's environment, it's becoming rarer each day to experience quality, precision, and promptness combined with great customer service and superior performance when dealing with professionals who advertise their claims of greatness in hopes of attracting your business. I can’t say enough about the team at Max Factor Law, as they exhibited everything of what these companies claim to be, and more! Their attention to detail and well-ordered precision was exceptionally executed when moving through the processes. Even more impressive was their legal prowess and expertise that was nothing short of genius mastery, which kept opposing counsel and their client dazed and staggered. From the very beginning, to the Final Order, to their choice of mediator (who, by the way, was extraordinary, professional and full of charming witty banter that kept the temperature of the proceedings very low), I witnessed top-shelf commitment and unwavering resolve that the Max Factor Law team used to manifest a VERY favorable outcome for my case. I couldn't have dreamed of a better outcome for my case. My many thanks and eternal gratitude goes out to the team of Max Factor Law; Mr. Max Factor, Mr. Eric Shaub, Ms. Sandie Hobbs, and Ms. Amber Williams. They are the pillar example for all family attorneys to follow. I would recommend them to anyone, anytime!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Mar, 2024 by C garraway
His administrative assistant was such a sweet lady that I expected the same when I dealt with Max. Unfortunately he was very condescending.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2024 by Diana bixler
Wonderful team!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Velisia bosby
Very friendly and helpful
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2023 by Priscilla kelley
Mrs. Ruby Barr is a wonderful person, but I definitely don’t recommend Mrs. Barr for assistance in a a family law case. Her many years of experience has clouded her judgement drastically. She is unable to separate her experiences as an attorney and look at factors within cases and this unfortunately causes an inability to make an unbiased decision based solely on case facts. When presented with information and evidence she is unwilling to listen and instead chooses to rely solely upon her personal experience with other cases. She reviewed only a handful of the evidence presented and determined that my particular case was just a normal high conflict case involving minor children, completely ignoring previous illegal activities of the other parties. She failed to review records and documents that were pertinent to the case and gave no recommendations to the courts. This was the worst 3k spent.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2023 by Bon jovi
This lady is a philanthropist lawyer!!! She takes cases of the unfortunate and helps them fight there legal battles. Mrs Barr is the greatest america should look at her and revise there plans she is the model human being who does selfless acts of kindness God bless you
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Velisia bosby
Very friendly and helpful
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2023 by Priscilla kelley
Mrs. Ruby Barr is a wonderful person, but I definitely don’t recommend Mrs. Barr for assistance in a a family law case. Her many years of experience has clouded her judgement drastically. She is unable to separate her experiences as an attorney and look at factors within cases and this unfortunately causes an inability to make an unbiased decision based solely on case facts. When presented with information and evidence she is unwilling to listen and instead chooses to rely solely upon her personal experience with other cases. She reviewed only a handful of the evidence presented and determined that my particular case was just a normal high conflict case involving minor children, completely ignoring previous illegal activities of the other parties. She failed to review records and documents that were pertinent to the case and gave no recommendations to the courts. This was the worst 3k spent.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2023 by Bon jovi
This lady is a philanthropist lawyer!!! She takes cases of the unfortunate and helps them fight there legal battles. Mrs Barr is the greatest america should look at her and revise there plans she is the model human being who does selfless acts of kindness God bless you
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2023 by Marcus
I hired Shelly 6 years ago to handle my case for child support. In the beginning, she talked the talk. She told me I would get 50/50 custody of my child. Why not? I had 50/50 with my two other kids. She made it sound like I was going to get what I wanted. Two years later, I got an email from her saying we were going to court that year, and she only needed to 1.5 hrs to wrapped things up. I was excited because I was going to get to have time with my daughter and my other kids were going to get to bond with their younger sister. The time came and went. No emails and no response from Shelly. I reached out to her and still no response. COVID hit so I have her the benefit of the doubt. Cases were backed up because of COVID. I reached out to Shelly by phone and email wanting to have my daughter with me some during Christmas last year so she could meet her sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and me. I haven't been around my child since she was a baby and haven't been allowed to see her since. My daughter has missed out on so much. She has a family she doesn't even know that loves her and would love to see her. You would have thought that matter to Shelly but no. No response from Shelly at all. Fast forward to this year. I get a letter for m the Attorney General's Office stating that Shelly ask to remove herself from my case due to failure to prosecute. I received no email, text, nor phone call from Shelly telling me that she was going to drop my case. That's pretty unprofessional in my book. So now, I am without a lawyer still with an open case. If you have been on the fence about hiring Shelly, don't bother. She will take your money and run. She shouldn't be allowed to practice law in the State of Florida. She talks the talk. She walks the walk like walking off with your money.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2022 by Jamal
Ms. Thomas was very straightforward and eager to me throughout my whole divorce/custody case. Communication was excellent.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
There is no doubt Ms. Thomas has a high case load and lacks in communication. Although, she has represented me won multiple Family Law Cases and Criminal charges and when my time came around I was given her full attention and so were all of my cases. I understand how challenging juggling caseload and giving everyone and their Mama and update everyday, and managing several trials happening at the same time could be totally overwhelming. I know I never seen her take a day off, and I know my justice through her has been served.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Steve hogg
I called to try to get answers about my issues.Before I could explain they the receptionist basicly told me the same thing I been hearing for the past 4 years. You mean to tell me lawyers go to school to only do accidents?
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Tracy scarbary
The experience for me was horrible. They do send you a letter in the beginning explaining you will go long times with no communication, that's an understatement! I never even meet the attorney assigned to my case. Never had a one on one discussion with anyone. Took over 4years to resolve, can't blame that all on covid! The process is confusing, the receptionist is rude, and it always felt like I was bothering them when I would call and try to get updates. Very disappointing from start to finish. Once settled took forever for payout, and understand the 40% percent the firm gets comes off the top not after fees are paid, you may not realize it but it makes a difference in what you end up with!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Regieona moody
10/10 customer service.! Absolutely went in without knowing anything,gave all my information to Jim and he sure enough helped me understand the importance of MY RIGHTS.He is so amazing at what he does and WONT leave you disappointed. The communication was great,any time I had a silly question he was right there to answer. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF AN DEPENDABLE LAWYER THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO GO TO HIM.!!! Absolutely love him.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2023 by Jerry sanders
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Dec, 2022 by Beth echols
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2021 by Gabriel perry
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Jun, 2024 by Rosa charles
Google Maps
star star star star star
01 May, 2024 by Dimitria mitchell
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Apr, 2024 by Agent snake plisskin
Officer Oliver out of Tallahassee PD was caught on her BWC planting evidence. She was also caught lying multiple times and yet they still allowed her to testify in court. Some how she is still employed with Tallahassee Police. Ag jack campbell, the judge, the prosecutor and the police are a disgrace to our great nation. That whole group needs to be investigated.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Mrs. Williams is a honest and did a excellent job representing me on a family matter for time share and support. She is very honest and direct and will do what is best for the child. She is compassionate and available for questions related to your case. If you are unable to reach her by phone, she is just as fast with emails. I would recommend her for anyone who has a legal matter. I definitely will hire her again if in need of a lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
She was horrible I hired her and she barely saw me and never talked to me yet she overcharged me and my family.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney has sleepy time issues, don't call his office after 11:00. I would not recommend this attorney. I was trying to leave a meassage for him to call me in the morning ,then he answered with an attitude. Mr Spriggs,I am a customer,and should be treated in a professional manor. i don't like the way you talked to me. is your office at home,or do you have a office at all. next time let it go to your voice mail box. thanks any way,. I would not recommend this attorney for anything.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2022 by Bill wilson
Tipical got to have ton of money to hire him ,not too mention he set me up with another thief who took $3500 for pardon in florida named Richard A greenburg ,dont hire an attonery for pardons in florida from tallahassee ,couse what they wont tell you 99% of cases get denied ,$3500.00 i was out ,an this know it all knew it an did not tell me, they work together in that makeing deals An big money ,in that capitol city ,if you hire one if you do from far away from the capitol ,where they just all know one another an play god with desent remorcefull everyday people that made a mistake nearly 40 years ago half a life time
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:

  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.