Best Civil Rights Lawyers in Maryland

About Civil Rights Law in Maryland, United States

Civil rights law in Maryland is designed to protect individuals from discrimination and to guarantee equal treatment under the law. Civil rights protect against unfair treatment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other characteristics. Both federal and state laws work together to provide these protections in several areas, including employment, housing, education, and access to public services. Maryland has enacted its own civil rights statutes that often go beyond federal protections to ensure the rights and dignity of all residents.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you believe your civil rights have been violated, consulting a lawyer can be critical for understanding your legal options and protecting your rights. Common situations in which individuals in Maryland may need a civil rights lawyer include:

• Experiencing discrimination at work or school because of race, sex, religion, disability, or other protected categories.
• Being denied housing or facing harassment from landlords or housing providers.
• Encounters with police involving excessive force or unlawful searches and arrests.
• Facing retaliation for reporting discrimination or participating in an investigation of discriminatory practices.
• Barriers to accessing public spaces or government services due to disability.

Legal professionals can help by assessing your situation, explaining your rights, assisting with complaints to local or federal agencies, and representing you in mediation or court if needed.

Local Laws Overview

Maryland's laws offer robust civil rights protections in many areas. The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) is tasked with enforcing state anti-discrimination laws. Key aspects of Maryland civil rights law include:

• Prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, and disability.
• Requiring reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities both in the workplace and in public life.
• Mandating equal educational opportunities regardless of protected status.
• Allowing individuals to file complaints with state agencies and providing remedies such as reinstatement, monetary damages, or policy changes when violations occur.
• Offering legal protections that may be broader than those offered under federal law, especially in regard to local government services and smaller employers.

Municipalities like Baltimore and Montgomery County may have additional local ordinances that further protect residents from discrimination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a civil rights violation in Maryland?

A civil rights violation occurs when someone is treated unfairly or denied equal opportunity based on a protected characteristic such as race, gender, disability, or religion, in areas like employment, housing, education, or public accommodations.

How do I file a civil rights complaint in Maryland?

You can file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, or a federal agency like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, depending on the situation. There are time limits for filing, so it is important to act quickly.

Is discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity illegal in Maryland?

Yes. Maryland law specifically prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, public accommodations, and certain other areas.

What should I do if I face discrimination at work?

Keep records of the incidents, report the behavior to your employer or human resources department, and consider contacting the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or consulting a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options.

Can I sue for damages if my civil rights are violated?

Depending on the facts and the law that applies, you may be entitled to monetary damages, reinstatement to a job, changes in policies, or other remedies. A lawyer can help you determine what is possible in your situation.

Are there time limits to file a civil rights complaint?

Yes. There are strict deadlines, often called statutes of limitations. For example, most claims to the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights must be filed within six months of the alleged violation, while federal claims may have different timelines.

Do Maryland civil rights laws protect against police misconduct?

Yes. Maryland law, as well as federal law, protect individuals from excessive force or unlawful arrest by police. Complaints can be made to local police oversight boards, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General, or in federal court.

What protections exist for people with disabilities?

Maryland law requires employers, landlords, and public facilities to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, and bars discrimination in most areas of public life.

Are students protected from discrimination in Maryland schools?

Yes. Students are protected from discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and other categories in public and most private schools.

Can I get free or low-cost legal help for civil rights issues?

There are organizations and legal aid groups in Maryland that may offer free or lower-cost legal assistance for civil rights cases, depending on your situation and financial need.

Additional Resources

If you need information or assistance with civil rights concerns in Maryland, you may want to contact the following resources:

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) - The state agency that investigates and enforces anti-discrimination laws.
• The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Maryland - Provides advocacy and legal aid in civil rights cases.
• Maryland Legal Aid - Offers free legal services to low-income individuals with civil cases, including civil rights concerns.
• The Maryland Office of the Attorney General - Can address certain types of civil rights violations involving public agencies.
• Local human relations or civil rights offices for specific cities or counties, which may have additional resources.

Next Steps

If you believe your civil rights have been violated in Maryland, consider taking these steps:

• Document the incident and gather any evidence such as emails, written communication, witness names, or official notices.
• File a complaint with your employer, school, housing provider, or other relevant authority to create a formal record.
• Contact the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or an appropriate agency to initiate an official investigation if necessary.
• Consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in civil rights law to understand your options and ensure your rights are protected.
• Access free or low-cost legal services if you cannot afford private legal counsel.

Taking prompt action is important due to legal deadlines. Professional advice can help you determine the best approach to resolve your issue and protect your rights under Maryland and federal law.