CIVIL RIGHTS & ADA - An Overview of the Law and Attorneys
The federal government passed laws that allow individuals to protect their civil rights guaranteed to them by the Constitution of the United States. Civil rights law is designed to ensure every citizen is afforded equal protection of the law regardless of race, gender, age, or disability. Civil rights attorneys are a valuable resource in understanding civil rights law and taking action to remedy abuse.
Constitutional Civil Rights Law
Government laws or actions cannot infringe upon rights such as the freedom of speech or organization, freedom to travel, right to find work, right to privacy, or freedom to practice religious beliefs. Likewise, a law cannot have a negative impact, intentionally or in effect, against persons because of their race, gender, religious beliefs, or age. In addition, an individual or company/organization cannot impose on another individual's civil rights. A civil rights lawsuit can ask for an injunction to invalidate the law, cease the government action, or recover damages. Filing a complaint against a government body or individual using civil rights law is a complex legal process, and any party seeking to do so should contact an experienced civil rights attorney.
ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act
In addition to the constitutional rights and classifications protected, Congress and many states have adopted civil rights laws preventing discrimination by non-government entities in housing or employment situations. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), provides civil rights laws preventing employers, businesses, and housing providers from refusing employment or housing to a person because of a disability. The Fair Housing Act is another civil rights law that disallows housing providers from discriminating based on any factor such as race or gender. It is important for any party that has been discriminated against under the ADA to contact an ADA attorney. Additionally, anyone who feels his or her civil rights have been violated outside of the ADA should still consult with a civil rights attorney.