Best Civil Rights Lawyers in New York

About Civil Rights Law in New York, United States

Civil rights law in New York is designed to protect individuals from discrimination and unfair treatment based on characteristics like race, color, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, and more. These protections arise from both federal and state laws. In New York, robust civil rights protections extend beyond the standards set by federal law, offering broad coverage and remedies for affected individuals. Civil rights laws cover areas such as employment, housing, education, public accommodations, voting, and interactions with law enforcement. If your rights have been violated, you have options and may seek guidance to enforce your protections under the law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A civil rights lawyer can provide crucial support in a variety of situations. Some common reasons people in New York seek a civil rights attorney include:

• Experiencing discrimination at work, such as being denied a promotion because of race, gender, or disability
• Facing housing discrimination, like being refused to rent an apartment due to a protected characteristic
• Encountering police misconduct, unlawful search or seizure, excessive force, or wrongful arrest
• Suffering from discrimination in educational institutions or public spaces
• Being denied reasonable accommodations for a disability at work, school, or in housing
• Retaliation by an employer or other entity for asserting your civil rights or filing a complaint
• Experiencing voter suppression or obstacles to voting based on discriminatory practices

If you believe your civil rights have been violated, a lawyer can help you understand your options, negotiate with responsible parties, and represent you in formal complaints or lawsuits.

Local Laws Overview

New York State has a strong legal framework for the protection of civil rights. Key laws include:

• New York State Human Rights Law - Prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and credit based on protected categories such as race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, marital status, and more.
• New York City Human Rights Law - Expands upon state protections, adding further protected categories and stricter standards for covered entities within New York City.
• Stop-and-Frisk Reforms - In response to concerns about racial profiling, New York has enacted and enforced policies to restrict the misuse of stop-and-frisk practices by law enforcement.
• Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA) - Guarantees protections for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.
• Reasonable Accommodations Laws - Require employers, landlords, and service providers to make accommodations for persons with disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship.

In addition to state and city laws, federal statutes such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act apply in New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my basic civil rights under New York law?

Your civil rights in New York include protection against discrimination based on certain characteristics in areas such as employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. You also have rights relating to equal treatment by the government and protection from unreasonable searches and seizures.

Who is protected by New York’s civil rights laws?

Nearly everyone in New York is protected, including residents, workers, tenants, students, and visitors. Protected characteristics include but are not limited to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, and gender identity.

What should I do if I believe my civil rights have been violated?

You should document what happened, gather any evidence, and consider contacting a qualified attorney. You may also file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights or other relevant agency depending on the situation.

Can I file a complaint without a lawyer?

Yes, many agencies allow you to file a complaint on your own. However, legal guidance can help ensure your complaint is properly prepared and submitted, and a lawyer can represent you through any hearings or negotiations.

Are there deadlines for filing a civil rights claim?

Yes, there are strict time limits known as statutes of limitations. For example, complaints to the Division of Human Rights must usually be filed within one year of the alleged discriminatory act. Time frames may vary depending on the law and the type of claim.

Does New York law protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity?

Yes, both New York State and New York City law explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression.

What is considered unlawful retaliation?

Retaliation is when someone faces negative action, such as firing or harassment, for reporting discrimination or asserting their civil rights. This is illegal under both state and federal civil rights laws.

What remedies are available if my civil rights are violated?

You may be entitled to remedies including compensatory damages, reinstatement to a job or housing, policy changes, legal fees, and sometimes punitive damages. Each case is unique and outcomes depend on the facts.

Is disability discrimination prohibited in New York?

Yes, New York law requires employers, landlords, and service providers to accommodate people with disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship. Discrimination against people with disabilities is illegal.

Where can I go if I experience police misconduct or excessive force?

You can file a complaint with local or state police oversight agencies, such as the Civilian Complaint Review Board (for New York City), or seek legal counsel to discuss possible civil lawsuits for violations of your civil rights.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or wish to file a complaint, consider contacting:

• New York State Division of Human Rights
• New York City Commission on Human Rights
• United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• Civilian Complaint Review Board (for police issues in New York City)
• Legal Aid Society or other non-profit legal organizations
• New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU)

These organizations can provide information, resources, and sometimes free or low-cost legal assistance.

Next Steps

If you believe your civil rights have been violated in New York, follow these steps:

• Write down what happened, including dates, locations, names of people involved, and details of the incident.
• Collect any documentation or evidence, such as emails, photos, or witness statements.
• Consult with a qualified civil rights attorney to discuss your options and next steps.
• File a complaint with the appropriate agency if recommended by your attorney.
• Keep records of all communications and steps taken regarding your complaint or case.

Seeking legal guidance early can help protect your rights and give you the best chance for a successful resolution.