New York State and Federal Civil Rights Claims

Protecting Your Fundamental Freedoms

Civil Rights Claims in New York

Civil rights laws, at both the state and federal levels, are designed to safeguard individuals' fundamental rights and freedoms. If you believe your civil rights have been violated, understanding the legal framework and your options for seeking redress is crucial. This webpage provides an overview of civil rights claims in New York, citing the relevant statutes for both state and federal claims.

Types of Civil Rights Claims:

• Employment Discrimination and Retaliation: Allegations of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on protected characteristics and/or protected activities under the NYSHRL and federal law.

• Police Misconduct: Allegations of civil rights violations by law enforcement, such as excessive force or false arrest, under Section 1983.

• Privacy Violations: Claims related to invasions of privacy, such as unauthorized use of one's name or likeness.

• First Amendment Violations: Cases involving freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.

• Disability Rights: Claims related to disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

New York State Civil Rights Claims:

• New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) (N.Y. Exec. Law § 296): The NYSHRL prohibits discrimination based on various protected characteristics, including race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, and more.

• New York State Civil Rights Law (N.Y. Civ. Rights Law § 40): This law addresses various civil rights issues, including protections against discrimination, privacy violations, and unlawful surveillance.

Federal Civil Rights Claims:

• Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) (42 U.S.C. § 2000e-2): Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin.

• Section 1983 Claims (42 U.S.C. § 1983): Section 1983 allows individuals to bring claims against state or local government officials who violate their constitutional rights.

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (42 U.S.C. § 12112): The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, and government services.

Protecting Your Civil Rights

Civil rights claims in New York, whether at the state or federal level, are a critical means of safeguarding fundamental freedoms and seeking justice when violations occur. If you believe your civil rights have been violated, seeking legal representation is essential to protect your rights and seek remedies under the law. For legal assistance with New York or federal civil rights claims, please do not hesitate to contact us for a confidential consultation.