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23 Oct, 2013 by Sylvia
Andrea assisted me with a complex discrimination case. She was exactly the type of assertive, competent lawyer I needed.
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13 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
I found Ms. Brenneke and her staff to be committed to providing excellent client services. Her technical expertise was extraordinary. She possesses a superb sense of strategy, tactics, and legal knowledge. Smart, energetic, passionate, available, accessible & responsive well beyond the call of duty. Ms. Brenneke was an eloquent, strong advocate, who exudes character & competence. My experience was stellar. I highly recommend Ms. Brenneke. I hold her in the highest regard, and would (and have) recommended her without hesitation.
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21 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Brian Dosch was my appointed public defender and I could not have asked for a better attorney. He always responded promptly to my emails, walked me through the entire process, and got me the best sentencing I could have asked for. He made a not so fun life experience much more manageable, and I really felt like he had my best interest as a priority at all times. I could not recommend a better attorney!
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29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Dosch recently helped me with a criminal defense case. He helped me negotiate an outstanding offer with the prosecutor where I did not have to do jail time. He was always very prompt about returning my emails with questions and concerns, and even spoke to me once during his lunch hour.
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12 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Walter was hired regarding a bogus anti harassment case. After our first meeting I was shocked at possible outcome from such accusations. HIs quick and decisive action made the court proceeding a piece of cake. I have a great sense of security knowing to be engaged with him. I strongly recommend his services.
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02 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
When I was blind sided with a BOGUS anti harassment restraining order out of the blue, I was unsure what to do or where to turn. I was referred to Walter Potebnya by an associate of his. What I liked most about consulting with and then hiring Mr. Potebnya was that he listened to me, was able to see me almost instantly, and heard me through my concerns for about 2 hours before ever discussing fees unlike most other attorneys who size out your wallet first. He took a strong interest in my situation and explained that he had experience in the area I needed professional help with. I felt very relieved after the consultation, and hired him for my issue at hand. He was very helpful throughout the period of uncertainty even taking calls after hours if I needed, which I did once. When our day in court came I cant say enough about how nice it was to have a confident attorney by your side. His professional and aggressive approach was exactly what I needed and sought after in a Lawyer representing me in court. He made very quick work of the case and in less than a hour, we had WON, and were out of the court room. I was please with his service and would recommend Mr. Walter Potebnya to anyone who asked.
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20 Mar, 2015 by Stephanie
Handled our case and got great results. He never backed down. Would use him again but, I hope we never have to. He came highly recommended and it shows.
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04 Mar, 2013 by Patrick
I have had Kevin assist me with several legal issues/questions over the years and have always been impressed with his expertise. Always willing to go the extra mile for his clients and I highly recommend him.
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09 Dec, 2013 by David
Andy is the most professional, tenacious, and relentless attorney I have used over the last 15 years. I have used him for numerous legal situations ranging from property disputes, landlord tenant act, and overall general legal counsel. He is the first attorney I call when a potential situation could arise. He is phenomenal to work with and has always exceeded my expectations.
If you use Andy – feel good he is representing your legal situation! I have recommended him to several of my friends and family and will continue to recommend.
I can’t say enough about how good he is!
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06 Dec, 2013 by Gordon
I have been friends with Andy for more than a decade, but a business entanglement was what finally gave me the opportunity to avail myself of his expert services. What started as a simple debt collection matter turned into a near trial. Andy was prepared for all phases, and while he was encouraging us to do smart things along the way that would have shortened his engagement with us, he was fully prepared (and maybe looking forward to) going the distance. He was directly involved in all phases of the case, from deposition to mediation, and took it as his personal mission to see that we got a satisfactory result in the end. I highly recommend Andy and his firm for your legal matters.
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05 May, 2022 by Sally
Nicholle was available and attentive to our needs. I highly recommend her for thoroughness, promptness, and her expertise.
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15 Feb, 2021 by N
Nicholle provided outstanding legal counsel for me when working with the Seattle School District to get an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for one of my sons who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She is very knowledgeable regarding ASD as well as how the Seattle School District and state system works and helped me navigate a very frustrating process to get my son an IEP.
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07 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Karen was able to take complex legal concepts and explain them in simple ways I could understand. She's very accessible and easy to work with. I highly recommend her.
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10 Jun, 2013 by John
Karen provided innovative solutions for difficult copyright and advertising issues. She explains things clearly and in non-legal language that I can understand. Always very prompt to respond.
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09 Nov, 2011 by Seattle professional
I worked with Ms. Thomas through difficult employment related contract negotiations, and felt she provided excellent counsel. She made herself as available as possible, in person, by email, or by phone. She was able to provide informed guidance on the "big picture," and timely, targeted responses on individual points in contract negotiations. She allowed me as a client significant leeway as to whether I took the lead in negotiations, or she did, which was very useful for keeping costs contained. I felt she helped me attain the best agreement possible under the specific circumstances. After this matter was resolved, I elected to seek her help again, for review of an employment agreement at a new employer.
On the personal side, she is a pleasure to work with! Joyce conveys a strong sense of caring in her work, and she will know you as a person to the extent you wish, not just as an interesting case she elected to take on. Her accomplishments and contributions to society at large are not even mentioned by her, but when you research her, you will see the further testimony to her intellignence and strength of her character in supporting just causes.
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05 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
I had a problem with a previous employer and a boss with a well documented history of discriminatory behavior.
Joyce was recommended to me by an associate and I'm very grateful. She's a very honest and detailed attorney who knows labor law from A to Z and she doesn't miss any details. She's is an outstanding advisor/counselor and genuinely cares about her clients and social injustice.
I couldn't recommend her highly enough.
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05 Jul, 2017 by Jamie
My lawyer did not leave me waiting ms somerstien came to see me promptly ,did not leave me waiting. I was confused at first ecstatic that I kept her. She has a heart and at no point in time made me feel less of a man for mistake I made. On my way to get the help I need instead of a incarceration exposure thank u from the bottom of my heart
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23 Dec, 2014 by Shelby
I just met with this competent young lady for a few moments but love everything about her very top notch I couldn't have ever asked for a better attorney than she.
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14 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Diego is fast, sharp, incisive, strategic, timely, does what he says he'll do, multi-culturally astute, professional, a real expert current on employment law, social justice oriented, thorough, nimble-minded, and uses time well. He'll tell you clearly, concisely and exactly what you need to know, so that you get the best outcome in a straightforward, efficient way.
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19 Sep, 2019 by Susan
I saw Bill for a complicated FDA legal issue. He was prompt, creative and presented solutions outside the box that made a difference. I particularly appreciated his expert advise on issues we hadn't even considered, like commercialization and privacy. Top notch.
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29 May, 2020 by Dee dee
Harvest Timber a selective logging Co. was audited by the IRS, & not like we assumed; they can audit you back 3 years. Their law is they can audit you back 3 years, from any date they choose, in the time frame you have been in business, in our case was 1981-1983.This was all the agent took our check book ledger, then recorded every check with a first & last name, not a business name ,, as a employee. Long story made short according to the IRS we owed 325K w/out penalties. We had to prove every employee, & sub-contractor pd their taxes, which they already had that documentation, but stated they do not have to release the information to we the defendants. There were many names we were note able to locate to get their Income tax return forms, for it was 30 yrs ago. Those people we had no proof on but new the paid their taxes because they cashed their return checks at the bar we also owned, but IRS wanted us to pay their taxes again.
Well they got fooled, Bob raked them over the coal, & always said, don't be scared let them know you know your rights, & their history as a illegal co. operating out of Cuba, so it is hard to sue a foreign CO. or Agent. (That work w/ the phony Central Bank (also Illegal) & the Rothschild's. we ended up owing 10K, less than it cost the IRS in attorney fees.
Thank You so much Bob, You are not only a great Attorney, your a good friend.
I recommend higher than any attorney we ever had.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Cynthia
Lisa was vigilant and thorough in regards to investigating, accessing, and reporting back to me. My legal situation is compounded with many unusual details which is why she was not able to assist in my case after all; however, I DID want her to represent me if she could have. I learned very important details surrounding my case which is valuable to me.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Linda
i needed help with my will this attorney is a wonderful guy,he explains everything in great detail and walks you through all your paperwork,he has great knowledge of the law
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01 Dec, 2019 by Brandin
My wife and I have consulted with Casey on numerous occasions. Both my wife and I are in helping professions that deal will HIPPA as well as state mandates. Every time we have sought consultation from Casey Bruner he has been honest and open with us on appropriate action to pursue or not pursue (regardless of his financial gain). Casey has show integrity, character, and careful consideration each and every time we have sought consultation. If at any point my wife and I do have to seek legal representation, Casey Bruner will be our first call!
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
She is just amazing. if you find your self hurt or in a jam and need some one that will fight for you and not let up call Yvonne. Word of mouth is her advertising and believe me she's the best.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Al
Christina did a superb job preparing my Transfer On Death Deed. She honored my requests or detailed how some requests would run afoul of legal scrutiny. Reasonably priced, professional and a pleasure to work with.
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31 May, 2018 by Teri
I have been working back and forth with Jessica for a few months now on a Rent to Own Dispute. She has been VERY responsive and helpful with any questions I have had. She takes the time to explain everything that is going on and continuously updates me on my case. She is very professional and knowledgeable in her work. I could not recommend a better attorney if you are in need! Nothing bad to say whatsoever!
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07 Sep, 2016 by Vivienne
Kris is an outstanding mediator. He took the time to listen to both sides and knew the case well. He was able to get both sides to come to an agreement in a very respectful manner. I would definitely use him again.
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10 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Wesley provides prompt, personable, and professional legal services with heart. He recently assisted me in understanding the disability benefit process, answered all questions throughout my application and followed up with my healthcare providers and Social Security Administration directly. He is a people-person whom fully understood my concerns and took ample time with me to develop a strategy for the entire process. I'd highly recommend Wesley.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Sherene & travis
Pat and her incredible team stepped up to help when our family lost an Adequate Cause determination due to an insufficient review of the evidence we presented showing extensive medical and educational neglect of my fiance’s kids by their mom. We had been turned down by multiple well known appeals attorneys in the area. Apparently NO ONE wins appeals for adequate cause in family court — ESPECIALLY DADS — so no one wanted to take us on. We were running out of time, when at the last minute we were referred to Pat. I think because of her strong civil rights bent, and her work with LGBTQ clients, she had an open mind when it came to our dilemma. We had strong evidence that had been ignored. We had a suicidal, special needs kid going without treatment or support. I think her sense of fairness is what made her scratch the surface where others shied away.
The mom worked at the courthouse where the case was heard and all of the commissioners and judges knew her. Several recused. But even the ones who didn’t saw her as a colleague and we never stood a chance for a fair hearing - though there was no way we were ever going to be able to prove bias.
Instead, Pat approached the appeal as a thorough, logical, evidentiary walk-through which systematically picked apart the lies, inconsistencies and unsubstantiated claims made by the mom. This deconstructed her narrative and showed it for the smokescreen it was. By the time she had laid out 2+2, it was obvious the case equaled 4, and that the Skagit County court had missed it completely. It was amazing to watch her talk to the appellate panel. It was obvious they viewed her as a peer and someone who would bring very valuable arguments to be considered. Until we saw those interactions I don’t think we were really aware of WHO she was in the legal community and the tremendous respect and standing she had. But we got it at that moment and now recognize the last second miracle we were given when she took our case.
10 months after we filed the appeal, the opinion came back that the Skagit judge had abused his discretion and our case was remanded for trial. They even published the opinion. We went on to win primary custody, sole medical and educational decision making (with a minor area of exception for one child) and have been able to start getting them the help and support they needed.
Pat went up against the SYSTEM that is stacked to the rafters against fathers and prevailed. She saved our kids from a lifetime of neglect and an abusive level of alienation that had been going on for many years. She saved our family. It’s that simple. We are forever grateful.
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06 Nov, 2018 by Betty
My husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma and we reached out to Kaitlin to represent us, we are so grateful we did. Kaitlin not only knows everything about asbestos law, but she was the most caring attorney we've dealt with. This was a difficult time for us, but Kaitlin made us feel we could leave it up to her.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Jolene
Veasna was amazing to work with. Throughout my entire process, she made me feel heard and important. If I had questions, she not only answered them but did research to provide me the best possible answer. If I had doubt, she allowed me time to work through the issues and did not make me feel pressured or rushed. She took the time to talk me through options to get the best outcome that suited me. She was patient and understanding from consultation to the conclusion, including invoicing. I was promptly provided updates as they were available so I didn’t have to wonder where things stood. One does not hope to have to hire an attorney but if a time comes again that one is needed, I will look to Veasna first.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Gabrielle
I engaged Kay in 2016, at the recommendation of my manager, and she was superb with the labor law I needed with legal representation.
I hired Kay again from about May 2018 to about May 2019. There were typos in some important documents and we were all catching up to the fact this employer wasn’t going to do anything right without going through its administrative process.
I needed to scope Kay’s work to control for cost, which she thought was because I didn’t trust her. This was really unfortunate. She also reduced her schedule and increased her bill rate and my employer got a lot of mileage out of those typos. But at the end of the day I wish she hadn’t been upset that my scoping for budget was a sign of not trusting her.
I’d have her back in a heartbeat. She’s that good. The firm hired to replace her - at half the cost - did not have the experience they claimed and I had to try another attorney or risk my statute of limitations. The third attorney was unethical. The only unethical attorney I’ve been exposed to.
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09 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I could not be more impressed by this sharp, competent attorney. She did win my case, which is obviously great, but win or lose I would have rated her the same. Excellent firm as well; Nordstrom level service.
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09 Oct, 2017 by Debra
In 2015 I entered into a twenty month contract for the purchase of a horse. The final payment date of August 4, 2017. March 2017 due to financial issues with my business I was going to have to sell the horse, negotiate an extension of payment, or return the horse. I sent a letter to the owners laying out the possible options, as well as getting permission to sell. I was contacted by their attorney. It was pay the balance on or before August 2017, yes I could sell the horse under specific conditions. If not they would file suit for Breach of Contract. I was unable to get the horse sold. By July the finances changed an I would be able to make the payments but would need to extend the deadline. I contacted Mr. Kover for advice and his professional help. He explained the process of this type of lawsuit to me in layman’s terms and came up with several options. He then took over the negotiations and I am making the final payments with an extended deadline. Mr. Kover was professional and answered all my questions. He made himself available. I will be keeping him as my attorney for my professional as well as personal legal needs.
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23 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Millikan,
Helped my daughter with a landlord issue. Other attorneys were not interested in helping protect her rights. He was very caring and kind to her. He didn't gouge on her bill. The charges were fair and honest. He's not like other attorneys I have used in the past. He really cares about the clients her represents.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Terry
George is a great attorney tells you what he thinks and dose what you want even if he don't think it's the best thing for you to do I was looking at 17 years and I had them down to 25 months I said no george said I should take the deal because 17 years is along time I'm not guilty and they dropped all charges without prejudice i rather of went to trial but I'm out now thanks to george thank you george i reccomend George Paul Trejo JR for all criminal cases because it's your life and your life matters unless your a sex offender then i recommend a public defender for you
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22 Apr, 2014 by Angela
Ms. Skrinar has been such an amazing attorney for me. I have been fighting for my disability for three years, and when I finally retained Ms. Skrinar to represent me, everything changed. I learned so much from her about the process. She is extremely knowledgeable and personable, comforting me in times when I was struggling. It's nice to see an attorney who truly cares about her clients AND knows her craft impeccably!
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26 Jan, 2015 by Lily
Mr. Carpenter handled my personal injury claim. I was rear ended by a truck (semi) when driving on the freeway. The the driver's insurance denied the liability for my case. With no witnesses or none to help me prove that it was the truck driver's fault Mr. Carpenter fought to defend me. He was able to get enough for my medical bills, car, and for all the stress the I was caused. I am very happy with his services, unlike other attorneys he notified me every step of the way. I would recommend him to everyone. I want to thank Mr. Carpenter's office for their amazing work and professionalism.
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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.
