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F. Douglas Hartnett, experienced Discrimination, Immigration attorney in Washington, DC with 10 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,25
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
10 Reviews
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14 May, 2021 by Lisa
Mr. Hartnett is by far one of the best I’ve used( I have used estate attorneys, real estate attorneys and civil attorneys in my life, but he is so client focused. He is easy to talk to. Doug is detailed oriented, he examines the issue with a microscope so the responses presented are very well researched. He keeps his clients in the loop during each step of the process. I must enjoyed working with him!
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31 Oct, 2019 by Estelle
Douglass Hartnett is a phenomenal attorney! He was able to take my summary of events and turn them into a concise Prehearing Statement. He was sharp-witted throughout the entire process. Douglass’ keen knowledge of the law was extraordinary. One man opposed the discriminatory actions of an Agency that employed 5000 people and was victorious. I was comfortable at every telephone conference and hearing because Douglass was standing beside me. I followed his advice because I trusted him. Ultimately, we prevailed in the case. I was reinstated to my 6 figure salary with benefits and backpay. This was the best money I’ve ever spent. With Gratitude, Estelle
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29 Oct, 2019 by May
I worked for DC public school for 27 years, I was out of the job because of a Reduction In Force. Douglas worked tirelessly until I was gainfully employed, retaining all benefits, retro pay and retirement. His professionalism is second to none. Very responsive and reassuring. I highly recommend
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Camilla Carolyn McKinney, experienced Discrimination, Government attorney in Washington, DC with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,12
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Feb, 2010 by Jd
I received my settlement checks in the mail today and I just wanted to say thank you for everything that you have done. I don't think I would have made it without you and your professional knowledge during this long process. You have been wonderful!
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23 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
I have known Camilla for years as a friend, but I never thought I'd have to call on her for legal representation. I am glad that I did. I had a very abrupt wrongful termination case based on discrimination that was not going to be easy to settle. The other side lawyered up with high priced, big firm lawyers. I made the mistake of going to another firm before I called Camilla. Calling her was the best move I could have made. She wrote an incredible demand letter which got my initial offer more than doubled - and by the time the case was over months later, she was ready to do battle if necessary. She drafted a devastating complaint that left the other side speechless, defenseless, and willing to settle. Great work Camilla and team. I will recommend you to others.
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14 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
Working with Ms. McKinney was a very pleasant experience. She was professional, attentive, responsive, and extremely knowledgeable. She kept me informed throughout the entire process and obtained a great settlement for me against my previous employer. I would definitely recommend her to friends and anyone in need of an employment attorney.
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Glenn D Grant, experienced Class Action, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 17 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,01
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4.2/5
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4.2
17 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Denise robin freeman
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star star star star star
08 Jun, 2024 by Stephen g
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star star star star star
19 Feb, 2024 by Starseed
Very knowledgeable staff!
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Jeffrey Joseph Lorek, experienced Discrimination, Financial Markets And Services attorney in Washington, DC with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,00
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
1 Reviews
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29 Nov, 2023 by Doctorsam56
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Heidi R. Burakiewicz, experienced Discrimination, Litigation attorney in Washington, DC with 25 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,42
star star star star star
4.1/5
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4.1
25 Reviews
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14 Nov, 2024 by Mary joy lamb
Do not recommend inexperienced assistants waste of time and money bled billing hours went with a bigger more experienced firm with great results.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Peter jackson
Top notch law firm. I am thankful for the attention to detail.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Tim patrick
I was very disappointed with the representation I received from this law firm. Elaine Fitch was a solid partner, but in my opinion my attorney did a poor job "representing me" and a good job running up charges.
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Ricardo Joseph Alexander Pitts-Wiley, experienced Appeals, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,09
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2024 by Shanikqua sharp
Mr. Pitts-Wiley accepted my case despite the fact that he only had two weeks to prepare and go before AJ. I thought my case was a sure win, because of the facts and evidence presented during EEO investigation. So I didn't think I needed a lawyer. Due to experience and expertise in Federal law, more specifically whistleblower retaliation and wrongful termination, Mr. Pitts-Wiley advised against an EEO appeal. He has genuine concern and care for me as his client. He has been my voice of reason and logic and prevented me from making decisions and choices based on my emotional state that would have resulted in a significant amount of additional unnecessary lawyer fees. I was mad at first because I wanted what I wanted. He was quite clear and a matter of fact that what I WANTED was not in my best interests at that time.... It validates my rating of excellent because he was doing what was in my best interest emotionally as well as financially. He could have filed an initial appeal and padded his pockets based on my emotional state. But he went above and beyond to fully explain why an appeal would not be advantageous at THAT TIME. While waiting for my Agency to make a decision on my proposed removal Mr. Pitts-Wiley would check in to see how I was doing. This speaks volumes and further validates my 5 star rating. Two years later.... Mr. Pitts-Wiley's knowledge, professionalism, experience and dedication is beyond reproach. I've never felt so confident about my case than I do Now... two years later. It is more than evident that he was a God send and that having him and his team represent was the best decision ever. He has been extremely transparent regarding the possible outcomes, however just based on his actions in what I would consider minute details is proving to monumental in my case. His level of transparency, professionalism, dedication and compassion, makes me want to go back to school so I can help others as he and his team has guided me through this process! I'm excited for the outcome.
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08 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Pitts-Wiley was a well-informed, measured, and competent attorney. He was experienced in working govt/IC employment law cases and kept me informed of all my options every step of the way. I was more than satisfied with the resolution and the support I received.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Thanks to Ricardo, I was able to successfully resolve my case with a former employer. He was very sympathic and understood the stress I was going through at that time. I have recommended him to several former co-workers and friends. I appreciated his representation.
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Daniel M Clark, experienced Consumer Protection, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 20 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,97
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3.8/5
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3.8
20 Reviews
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26 Mar, 2024 by Doctorsam56
Not very helpful just referral services!
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21 Jan, 2024 by Jayei harley
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06 Dec, 2023 by William murray
Get there before it opens and your experience should be good.
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Colleen Elaine Coveney, experienced Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,73
star star star star star
2.7/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
My experience was horrible. We had an agreement and then right before I needed her representation she pulled out based on false information. I am a whistleblower and so there are things that need to be private. I shared with her factual information and she claimed I provided false information about my name, age and location but she was wrong. The point is she willl leave you after you already have an agreement, you turn down other legal counsels and will leave you to fight the wolves for yourself. And will also falsely accuse you of misrepresenting yourself. Do not take a chance with her! Also they couldn't confirm that their digital systems were encrypted which was concerning for me. All of this happened to me and I hope it doesn't happen to someone else
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08 Oct, 2018 by Dee
I pray for you and your BRAVE CLIENT. I BELIEVE HER 100%.I'm so saddened by her experiences then and NOW. PEOPLE LOVE YOU MS FORD🙏🙏💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
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13 Jul, 2018 by A jo
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Neil A.G. McPhie, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,29
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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11 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr Mcphie u r the best u handled my case with out discrimination i have rocommened u to many others and they have all satisfied with your work thank you very much u r one of a kind many more blessings to u
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26 Apr, 2013 by Brian belmonrt
During initial meeting with Tully Rinckey lawyer Neil McPhie, fighting a retaliatory termination matter after filing a EEO complaint against my manager, he suggested that my case (should I choose to use his firm) should concentrate on negotiating a settlement offer. The offer would be based on compensatory, agency retaliatory action, whistle blowing, EEO (a dual case). This sounded great and seemed covers all the bases. I learned that in dealing with this firm, Never believe what you hear in the initial meeting. They will say whatever, in order to lock you in, but they do not produce any good outcomes. Mr. McPhee stated that his firm would prefer to negotiate a settlement because going through the discovery process (MSPB) would be very expensive to me. I was currently terminated and unemployed due to my having filed an EEO complaint against my manager. Once paid over five thousand dollars Tully Rincky firm went about preparing the MSPB response. No settlement negotiating offer was initiated by Tully Rincky firm. Instead the entire billing process went into the discovery for the MSPB case. After over a month of receiving/giving evidence to the firm, evidence that had been given to Mr. McPhie in our initial meeting, now I had to give/explain this information to his counterparts. When dealing with this firm I interacted with over five people. Yet none of my inputs went into the documents. The drafts presented, outside of my personal information, were very formatted. A month later it was the opposing agency who initiated the first settlement offer. Once the firm (Tully Rinckey) noted that the agency offer included “ pay the legal fees”, I could get no further assistance in my defense when addressing the initial issues put on the table concerning my termination and my rights. Tully Rincky lawyer, Mr. McPhie turned a blind eye to the defense, and instead left several individuals to handle the case. The objective seems to be “ build more billable hours” and not to concentrate on a settlement offer in my defense. I was constantly brining to Mr. McPhie and his staff attention, the initial objective. I was openly ignored. Mr. McPhie was so out of tune with my case, that he constantly sent me email pertaining to his other client. This became a common mistake on the firm’s part. I would answer and Mr. McPhie would state that, the email was not meant for me, and asks that I erase the email. Yet the email was almost duplicates to what Tully Rincky offered on my behalf as a settlement offer. This showed a complete lack in attention to detail, as well as each client being given individual attention and assistance, offers were pretty standard and favored the opposing agency once legal fees were covered. Again when presenting the evidence in my defense which I wanted submitted in the counter offer, Neil McPhie, he responded by withdrawing and sending out a mass email to the agency, the MSPB board and me, it read “Please be advised that effective immediately, the law firm of Tully Rickey. PLLC is withdrawing its representation of you in your pending MSPB appeal. It is obvious that the trust and confidence necessary for an attorney-client relationship does not exist. I will take steps to inform the judge and agency counsel of my withdrawal.” Neil McPhie had made five thousand dollars at my expense. I experienced that this firm operated like a cattle farm, standardized legal representation and one that caters to building billable hours from their clients. Once you sign their five page contract your open to unlimited billing, and not for the matter that you hired them for. They were efficient in summing me up, a black person so give them a black lawyer. But the objective is the same- gain as much billable hours from the client as possible with no real results given.
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Harnam S Arneja, experienced Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
He forgets that he have made some appointments with the clients. We had an appointment and I tried calling him all day and drove all the way to DC from bristow but he did not even show up at the office and his associates were like we have no idea where he is . GREAT SERVICE
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24 Jul, 2013 by Candice
Excellent counsel, gave me great advise, and followed thru! Got results where others did not want to do the work!
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Bryan A. Chapman, experienced Discrimination, Sexual Harassment attorney in Washington, DC with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2015 by Nettie
DO YOUR OWN HOMEWORK. These sites do not tell you the full story. RIGHT NOW Mr. Chapman is winning major cases. In 2015 Mr. Chapman just won a discrimination case against the PG County Board of Education. I received exallent advise and a lesson in the laws pertaining to my issue. Mr. Chapman was clear. When your job/life is one the line you want someone who will put forth the extra effort to do what it takes to protect your interests. There is no doubt in my mind that he will do it. He has a passion for his work.
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09 Oct, 2013 by Janice
In every sense of the word, this man is a "fraud." Do not give him your hard earned money. Bryan Chapman failed to adequately file my case in U.S. District Court and completely failed to represent me during court proceedings. I doubt very seriously if he passed the bar exams. I retained him to represent me in a case of job discrimination and retaliation. What I discovered too late was that I knew more about discrimination and retaliation than he did!
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David J Shaffer, experienced Civil Rights, Class Action attorney in Washington, DC with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,63
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
4 Reviews
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13 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
If I could give ZERO stars, I would! Terribly unorganized attorney and firm to where his ENTIRE staff quit in under a year. It cost me 30K for him to back out of my case at the last minute before a federal judge. He cited health reasons, but continues to practice law?! I had to start all over again 30K in the hole! This man should NOT have a law license!
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27 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I regret hiring David Shaffer for my discrimination case. As a legally blind attorney per his website, I thought he'd know how to win a disability case. He was asleep during depositions. Constantly forgetting meetings and facts in my case. Do NOT hire this lawyer.
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29 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I was going to hire Kelley and David, but they would not answer basic questions anyone would have prior to retaining an attorney. Kelley says she is an advocate for the disabled community, but not unless there’s something in it for her. I would not recommend.
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Ryan Michael Bates, experienced Discrimination, Litigation attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brittany Leah Vascik, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sheri Strickler Shilling, experienced Discrimination, Litigation attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Susan Frier Wiltsie, experienced Discrimination, Government attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Justin Peter Hedge, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David Jacob Valeck, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sarah Aiman Belger, experienced Appeals, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Janice H Ziegler, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Rebecca S Bjork, experienced Class Action, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brittany Leah Vascik, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Julie Ilene Zibulsky, experienced Discrimination, Sexual Harassment attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Theresa Spaulding Nguyen, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Nancy N Delogu, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David Jacob Valeck, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Ryan C Tisch, experienced Business, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Rachel S Janger, experienced Discrimination, Litigation attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Rebeccah G Watson, experienced Civil Rights, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Rebecca Suzanne Bjork, experienced Class Action, Discrimination attorney in Washington, DC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
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What a Discrimination Lawyer Can Do for You

A discrimination lawyer specializes in handling cases where individuals or groups face unfair treatment based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. These lawyers assist clients in filing discrimination claims, representing them in legal proceedings, and ensuring that their rights under federal, state, and local laws are upheld. Discrimination cases may arise in employment, housing, education, public accommodations, or other settings.

Whether you’ve been discriminated against at work, denied housing, or treated unfairly in other areas of life, a discrimination lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation or corrective action.

When Should I Hire a Discrimination Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a discrimination lawyer in several situations where unfair treatment occurs based on protected characteristics. Common scenarios include:

  • Employment Discrimination:
    • Workplace discrimination: If you’ve been treated unfairly at work because of your race, gender, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or another protected status, a lawyer can help you file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a similar state agency.
    • Wrongful termination: If you were fired due to discrimination or retaliation for reporting discriminatory behavior, a lawyer can assist with filing a lawsuit and seeking compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
    • Failure to promote: If you’ve been denied a promotion or opportunities due to discriminatory practices, a lawyer can investigate the claim and represent you in legal actions against your employer.
    • Harassment: If you’ve experienced workplace harassment, such as sexual harassment or a hostile work environment based on your race, gender, or other characteristics, a lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
  • Housing Discrimination:
    • Denial of housing: If you’ve been denied housing due to your race, disability, family status, or other protected factors, a lawyer can help you file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or sue the landlord or property manager for violating the Fair Housing Act.
    • Unfair rental practices: If a landlord or property manager treats you unfairly based on discriminatory factors (e.g., refusing reasonable accommodations for a disability), a lawyer can help you enforce your rights.
  • Education Discrimination:
    • Discrimination in schools: If you or your child has faced discrimination in an educational setting based on race, disability, gender, or religion, a lawyer can help you file complaints under laws like Title VI, Title IX, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
  • Public Accommodations:
    • Denial of services: If a business or public service has discriminated against you based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics, a lawyer can assist you in filing a complaint or lawsuit under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other anti-discrimination laws.

Hiring a discrimination lawyer early can help protect your rights and ensure that your claim is filed within legal deadlines.

What Does a Discrimination Lawyer Do?

A discrimination lawyer provides a range of legal services to help individuals and groups fight against discriminatory practices. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Filing discrimination claims: A lawyer can help you file a complaint with government agencies, such as the EEOC, HUD, or your state’s human rights commission. They ensure that your claim is properly documented and filed within required time limits.
  • Investigating discrimination claims: Discrimination lawyers gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review documents to build a strong case for proving discriminatory practices.
  • Negotiating settlements: In many cases, a lawyer can negotiate a settlement with the employer, landlord, or other party involved in the discrimination case, seeking compensation or corrective action without going to trial.
  • Representing clients in court: If your case goes to court, a lawyer will represent you during hearings, present evidence, and argue your case before a judge or jury.
  • Handling retaliation claims: If you face retaliation for filing a discrimination complaint or reporting discriminatory practices, a lawyer can help you pursue a retaliation claim.
  • Advising on legal rights: A discrimination lawyer explains your legal rights under federal and state anti-discrimination laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the ADA, the Fair Housing Act, and others.

How Are Discrimination Lawyers Paid?

Discrimination lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the expected duration of the legal process. Common payment structures include:

  • Contingency fee: Many discrimination lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case. Their fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or court award, typically ranging from 25% to 40%.
  • Hourly rate: For cases that don’t involve a contingency fee arrangement, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates for discrimination lawyers generally range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the case’s complexity.
  • Flat fee: For simpler legal tasks, such as drafting a discrimination complaint or providing legal advice, some lawyers may charge a flat fee.
  • Pro bono or reduced fees: Some discrimination lawyers offer pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services, especially in cases involving low-income clients or significant civil rights issues.

It’s important to discuss fee arrangements during your initial consultation to ensure that you understand the total cost of legal services and how payment will be handled.

How Much Does a Discrimination Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a discrimination lawyer depends on factors like the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the potential for a settlement or trial. General cost estimates include:

  • Contingency fees: If the lawyer works on a contingency basis, their fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of any settlement or court award. For example, if you win a settlement of $50,000 and the lawyer’s fee is 30%, they would receive $15,000, and you would keep the remaining $35,000.
  • Hourly rates: Discrimination lawyers who charge by the hour typically bill between $200 and $600 per hour. For example, a case that takes 20 hours of legal work at $300 per hour would cost $6,000 in legal fees.
  • Flat fees: Some legal services, such as filing a discrimination complaint or providing a legal consultation, may be available for a flat fee ranging from $500 to $2,500, depending on the complexity of the task.
  • Pro bono or sliding scale fees: In some cases, particularly for low-income individuals, lawyers may offer reduced fees or work pro bono.

Always ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation, and clarify whether the lawyer offers flexible payment options.

Top Questions to Ask a Discrimination Lawyer

Before hiring a discrimination lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and qualifications to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with discrimination cases?
    Ensure that the lawyer has handled discrimination cases similar to yours, whether it involves employment, housing, or public accommodation discrimination.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs.
  3. What are my chances of success?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and the likelihood of success.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Discrimination cases can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take, from filing a complaint to reaching a settlement or going to trial.
  5. Will I need to go to court?
    Ask whether your case is likely to settle out of court or if a trial may be necessary. If a trial is possible, ask what steps the lawyer will take to prepare.
  6. What damages or remedies can I seek?
    Ask about the types of compensation or corrective action you can pursue, such as back pay, emotional distress damages, job reinstatement, or policy changes.
  7. What steps should I take to protect my rights?
    Ask for advice on how to document evidence, handle workplace or housing interactions, and avoid retaliation while your case is pending.

How to Check the Credibility of a Discrimination Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable discrimination lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Check their bar status: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and in good standing with the state bar association. You can check this on your state bar’s website.
  • Look for discrimination case experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in employment law, civil rights, or discrimination cases and have successfully handled similar cases in the past.
  • 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 their experience with the lawyer.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on discrimination matters.
  • Check for certifications or memberships: Look for certifications or memberships in civil rights organizations or employment law associations, such as the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA).

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a discrimination lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Detailed account of the discrimination: Provide a clear description of the discriminatory actions, including dates, locations, and individuals involved. Document specific incidents and any witnesses who can support your claim.
  • Workplace or housing records: Bring copies of relevant employment or housing documents, such as job performance evaluations, rental agreements, emails, or written correspondence related to the discrimination.
  • Company or organization policies: If the discrimination occurred in the workplace or housing, bring copies of company policies, employee handbooks, or housing agreements that outline anti-discrimination policies.
  • Evidence of damages: Provide evidence of any financial losses, such as lost wages, job termination, or increased rent, as well as emotional or psychological distress caused by the discrimination.
  • Previous complaints or actions: If you’ve filed previous complaints or taken any action related to the discrimination, such as reporting the issue to HR or filing a complaint with a government agency, bring copies of those documents.
  • Questions about the process: Prepare a list of questions about your legal options, potential outcomes, and the lawyer’s approach to handling your case.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for pursuing your discrimination claim.

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