Civil Rights Defense Lawyer

Civil Rights Defense Attorney

Being accused of violating someone’s civil rights can leave you in a precarious position, so it’s important to understand your rights if you’re facing charges. The individuals who typically require representation in these types of cases are law enforcement agencies and other government entities. Civil rights defense cases can be filed against individuals or entire entities. No matter the details of your case, it can be beneficial to hire a civil rights defense lawyer.

W. James Payne Law Firm has over four decades of experience navigating civil rights defense cases at the state and federal levels. From case evaluation to complete court representation, we can get you through your case.

About Civil Rights and Civil Rights Defense

Everyone deserves equitable treatment regardless of their personal traits. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was created on that basis, seeking to end discrimination based on age, disability, gender, race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Since then, the act has served to interpret and prosecute discriminatory acts, many of which still occur to this day.

The FBI reported 124,857 crimes against persons in North Carolina in 2024. Furthermore, the United States Sentencing Commission reported 125 cases specifically related to individual rights nationally. The prevalence of these types of cases demonstrates the need for strong civil rights defense laws. While they exist to protect people against these forms of discrimination, they’re not perfect.

If you’re involved in a civil rights defense case, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect yourself and your rights. Fortunately, you can hire a civil rights defense lawyer to help you through the entire process.

Common Civil Rights

Common areas related to civil rights defense laws in North Carolina include:

• Employment
• Housing opportunities
• Law enforcement
• Voting rights

The North Carolina Department of Justice (NCDOJ) established a Civil Rights Unit to monitor individuals and entities, ensuring they remain compliant with relevant civil rights laws. They also assist in handling violations that come into the office, including reports related to financial services, housing, and labor rights.

In recent years, the NCDOJ has made a push to revise a rule that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) passed in 2013, which made it difficult for housing discrimination claims to move forward.

The NCDOJ

The NCDOJ has also fought to protect more than 550,000 people in North Carolina who rely on the Affordable Care Act for health coverage. They’ve fought to ensure that all residents have access to healthcare, regardless of their age, gender, or sexual orientation, and have actively fought back against violations of these basic rights.

With all of these systems in place, it can be daunting to face civil rights defense charges in North Carolina. An attorney from W. James Payne Law Firm can guide you through your legal options, so you’re not overwhelmed and lost throughout the legal process.

Hire a Civil Rights Defense Lawyer You Can Trust

When seeking legal counsel, it’s important to look for a civil rights defense lawyer who has experience working on cases like yours. W. James Payne Law Firm has been in business for over four decades, and we’ve successfully closed thousands of cases at the state and federal levels.

When you choose W. James Payne Law Firm, you’re choosing a law firm that is rated by SuperLawyers®, rated as a Top Attorney by Avvo, recognized as Lawyers of Distinction, and is a part of:

• America’s Top 100 Attorneys list
• American Board of Criminal Lawyers
• Police Benevolent Association Award
• Top 100 Trial Lawyer

FAQs

What Does Civil Rights Law Cover?

Civil rights law is a wide area of law that covers the rights of individuals and groups with protected characteristics. This includes age, color, disability, gender, national origin, religion, and sexual orientation. These types of cases typically arise in areas like education, employment, housing, and public accommodations. A civil rights defense attorney can help you build a solid defense against your charges if you’ve been accused of violating someone’s civil rights.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Civil Rights Defense Lawyer?

The cost of working with a civil rights defense lawyer can vary depending on the specifics of your case and the law firm with which you choose to work. Defense attorneys can charge a flat fee or an hourly rate, depending on their price structure.

The cost is often dependent on the services you require to get through your case. You can expect to pay more if you’re navigating charges for a complex repeat offense versus a simple first-time charge.

What Is Considered a Violation of My Civil Rights?

Violating someone’s civil rights means treating them differently based on protected characteristics like age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation. These types of violations can look different depending on the nature of the violation. Some common examples of civil rights violations include a person not getting a house based on their race or not getting a job because of their sexual orientation.

Do I Have to Hire a Civil Rights Defense Lawyer?

You’re not required to work with a civil rights defense lawyer if you’re facing charges, but it’s highly recommended that you do. Being accused can have a lasting impact on your life, and a conviction can affect your criminal record and leave you facing harsh penalties. A civil rights defense attorney can evaluate your case and build a defense to help you face a more favorable sentence. In some cases, they can even have your charges dropped altogether.

Talk to a Civil Rights Defense Attorney About Your Case Today

Civil rights defense cases can be complex and overwhelming, which is why it’s advised to consult with a legal professional about your case. No matter what type of charges you face, you can count on a local civil rights defense lawyer to support you through your case.

From evaluating your case to representing you in court and every step in between, you can count on W. James Payne Law Firm to be by your side. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a trusted civil rights defense attorney.