Best Civil & Human Rights Lawyers in Missouri

About Civil & Human Rights Law in Missouri, United States

Civil and human rights law safeguards individual freedoms and protects citizens from discrimination or abuse by the government, businesses, institutions, or other individuals. In Missouri, these laws are informed by both federal and state constitutions, statutes, and legal precedents. Civil rights typically cover freedom from discrimination based on race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, age, or other protected characteristics. Human rights encompass even broader protections, emphasizing inherent rights to dignity, safety, and equality. These rights impact many aspects of daily life, from employment and education to access to housing and public services.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may require a civil and human rights lawyer in Missouri if you believe your rights have been violated or if you are facing discrimination or unfair treatment. Common situations include:

• Experiencing workplace discrimination or retaliation based on protected characteristics
• Facing denial of housing or lending opportunities due to race, disability, or family status
• Encountering unequal treatment or excessive force by law enforcement
• Being the victim of hate crimes or harassment
• Needing assistance with voting rights or access issues
• Addressing issues related to disability rights and accessibility
• Encountering disputes involving freedom of speech or religion

A qualified attorney can help you understand your rights, file complaints, gather evidence, represent you in court, negotiate resolutions, or advocate on your behalf with governmental agencies.

Local Laws Overview

In Missouri, civil and human rights are protected under the Missouri Human Rights Act, the Missouri Constitution, and relevant federal laws such as the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Fair Housing Act. Key aspects of local laws include:

• Employment Discrimination - The Missouri Human Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, and age (40-69).
• Housing Discrimination - Landlords and housing providers cannot discriminate against renters or buyers on the basis of protected traits.
• Public Accommodations - Businesses that serve the public must treat all individuals equally and cannot refuse service based on protected characteristics.
• Police Misconduct - Individuals have the right to be free from excessive force, wrongful arrests, and racial profiling by law enforcement.
• Voting Rights - Missouri law and federal statutes aim to protect the right to vote, prevent discrimination at the polls, and ensure accessible voting.

Missouri also has specific legal remedies and deadlines (statutes of limitations) for making complaints, which makes early legal advice especially important.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of discrimination are illegal in Missouri?

It is illegal to discriminate in employment, housing, or public accommodations based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, or age (between 40 and 69) under state law.

How can I file a discrimination claim in Missouri?

You can file a claim through the Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) or through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for federally protected rights. Some cases allow you to go directly to court, but strict deadlines apply.

What is the deadline for filing a discrimination complaint?

In most cases, you must file a discrimination complaint with the MCHR within 180 days of the alleged incident, although there may be extensions or exceptions in certain circumstances.

Does Missouri protect LGBTQ+ rights?

Missouri state law does not explicitly list sexual orientation or gender identity as protected classes, but federal law (following Supreme Court decisions) prohibits employment discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Many cities in Missouri have local ordinances that add these protections.

What should I do if I experience police misconduct?

Document your experience, seek medical attention if necessary, file a complaint with the relevant law enforcement agency, and consider speaking to an attorney about a civil rights claim.

Are disability rights protected in Missouri?

Yes. Both the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Missouri Human Rights Act require public spaces, employers, and service providers to provide reasonable accommodations and prohibit discrimination based on disability.

Can I be fired for reporting discrimination?

Retaliation for reporting discrimination is illegal. If you are fired or suffer adverse actions after making a complaint, you may have a separate legal claim for retaliation.

What happens after I file a complaint?

The agency will investigate your claim, and may attempt mediation or conciliation. If unresolved, the agency may issue a right-to-sue letter, enabling you to pursue your case in court.

Can I sue for monetary damages in civil and human rights cases?

Yes, you may be able to recover damages for lost wages, emotional distress, punitive damages, or attorney’s fees, depending on your case and the applicable law.

Do I need a lawyer to file a civil rights complaint?

You are not required to have a lawyer, but legal representation can help you understand your rights, meet filing deadlines, prepare your case, and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or support regarding civil and human rights issues in Missouri, consider reaching out to the following organizations and agencies:

• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR)
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Office of Fair Housing
• Missouri Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service
• American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri (ACLU-MO)
• Disability Rights Missouri
• Legal Services of Eastern, Western, and Southern Missouri
• NAACP Missouri State Conference

Next Steps

If you suspect that your civil or human rights have been violated in Missouri, act promptly to protect your rights. Here are suggested steps:

1. Document the incident, including names, dates, locations, and potential witnesses.
2. Gather and save any relevant documents (emails, letters, photos, audio or video).
3. Contact an attorney specializing in civil and human rights law for advice and representation.
4. Consider filing a complaint with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights or the appropriate federal agency.
5. If in immediate danger or experiencing retaliation, seek help from law enforcement or a crisis support agency.

Consulting with a knowledgeable legal professional is the best way to understand your options, meet legal deadlines, and pursue fair remedies for violations of your rights.