New York Civil Rights Lawyer

Aggressive Legal Advocacy for Civil Rights Violations in New York City

Civil rights violations hit at the very core of your being. When your rights have been violated, it affects more than your legal standing—it shakes your dignity, your sense of safety, and your trust in the institutions that are supposed to protect you. 

Whether you were wrongfully arrested, subjected to excessive force, discriminated against, or retaliated against for speaking up, these experiences leave lasting harm.

At The Perecman Firm, we see the human cost of civil rights violations every day. We know you're not just looking for a lawyer. You're looking for someone who hears you, believes you, and fights for you. 

For more than 40 years, our firm has stood up to powerful institutions in pursuit of justice. As your New York City Civil Rights Attorneys, we're here to do the same for you.

If your civil rights have been violated, we can help. Call us at (212) 977-7033 or schedule your free case review today.

What Counts as a Civil Rights Violation?

Not every injustice qualifies as a legal violation. But if your basic rights under the U.S. Constitution or federal and New York law have been violated, you may be entitled to legal action. Civil rights laws exist to ensure that you and all people are treated fairly, regardless of the traits that define you as a human being.

Knowing what constitutes a civil rights violation can be the first step toward reclaiming your voice and holding the responsible parties accountable.

Understanding Your Civil Rights

Everyone in New York—regardless of background or citizenship status—is entitled to equal treatment. Your civil rights are protected under the United States Constitution, including key amendments and legislation such as:

• The Civil Rights Act of 1964
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• The Fair Housing Act
• New York State Human Rights Law

These laws prohibit discrimination and protect your rights in areas like housing, employment, education, public spaces, and interactions with law enforcement officers. Civil rights protections cover many aspects of identity, including:

• Race and ethnicity
• National origin
• Religion
• Sexual orientation
• Gender and gender identity
• Disability status
• Age
• Veteran or military status

When these protections are violated, the law allows you to take action. The Perecman Firm’s team of NYC civil rights lawyers is not just equipped to handle some of the toughest and most complex cases; we have the results to show for it. 

Common Examples of Civil Rights Violations in NYC

Civil rights violations occur in every part of New York City—from the Bronx to Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, and throughout Long Island. Some of the most common include:

• Police misconduct and excessive force: Use of tasers, batons, chokeholds, or firearms in non-threatening situations.
• False arrest or detention: Being taken into custody without probable cause or a valid warrant.
• Malicious prosecution: Legal charges filed without justification or used to intimidate or punish.
• Employment discrimination: Being denied a job, promotion, or fair pay because of your race, age, gender, religion, or other protected status.
• Sexual harassment or hostile work environment: Unwanted sexual conduct, inappropriate comments, or retaliation for reporting harassment.
• Housing discrimination: Refusal to rent, unfair treatment, or eviction based on protected characteristics.
• Mistreatment in prison or custody: Physical abuse, medical neglect, or denial of basic needs while incarcerated.

Each of these situations may warrant a civil rights lawsuit. At the Perecman Fiirm, our New York City civil rights attorneys will evaluate your case and advise you on the next steps toward justice.

Police Misconduct & Law Enforcement Abuse

Law enforcement officers are sworn to protect and serve, and most of them do. However, in a force as large as the NYPD, there are almost always some authorities who abuse their power. 

Unfortunately, police misconduct remains one of the most common and disturbing forms of civil rights violations in New York City. During one recent five-year period, approximately 11,400 Civil Rights claims or lawsuits were filed in New York City alleging some form of police misconduct.

At The Perecman Firm, we stand up to police departments, corrections officers, and government entities who violate your constitutional rights. Whether you were wrongfully arrested, assaulted, racially profiled, or otherwise mistreated by police, we are here to fight for justice.

Excessive Force, Brutality, and Abuse of Power

Police officers are only permitted to use force when it is reasonable and necessary. Any force used beyond that point, especially when no real threat is present, can constitute police brutality. Examples include:

• Physical beatings with batons or fists
• Use of tasers or pepper spray without cause
• Chokeholds or neck restraints
• Threatening with weapons or discharging a firearm unnecessarily

These actions may violate your rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments of the United States Constitution. Our attorneys help victims hold the responsible officers and departments accountable.

False Arrest, Search, and Seizure

Being arrested without a valid reason is more than humiliating—it’s illegal. False arrests occur when officers detain someone without probable cause or fabricate reasons to justify the arrest.

Stop-and-frisk policies and racial profiling have led to countless wrongful detentions in New York. If you were stopped, searched, or arrested based solely on your appearance or background, you may have grounds for a civil rights lawsuit.

We also handle cases involving illegal search and seizure, where officers search your home, vehicle, or belongings without a warrant, consent, or legal justification.

Filing a Claim Under Section 1983

A powerful tool in civil rights litigation is 42 U.S.C. § 1983. This federal law allows individuals to sue state and local officials, including abusive police officers, for violating their constitutional rights while acting "under color of law."

To bring a Section 1983 claim, we must prove:

• The officer or official acted in an official capacity
• Your rights under the Constitution or federal law were violated
• The conduct caused you to suffer direct harm

You may be able to sue not just the individual officer but also the city, police department, or supervising officials if systemic failures contributed to the abuse. If you’ve suffered any form of wrongful abuse by an authority, reach out to the experienced civil rights lawyers at the Perecman Firm. 

Discrimination in Employment and Public Life

Discrimination robs people of opportunity, dignity, and financial stability. Whether it's losing out on a promotion, being denied housing, or enduring harassment on the job, these acts are not just unfair—they're unlawful.

The Perecman Firm helps individuals who have suffered discrimination based on protected characteristics in workplaces, schools, housing, and public settings. We hold employers, landlords, and institutions accountable when they break the law.

Workplace Discrimination & Wrongful Termination

Employment discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly due to a protected trait. This includes:

• Denial of promotions or raises
• Unequal pay for the same work
• Refusal to hire qualified candidates
• Terminating employees based on race, gender, age, or other protected status

Wrongful termination claims often arise when employers fire employees in retaliation for reporting discrimination or harassment.

Retaliation and Harassment on the Job

Federal and New York laws make it illegal for employers to retaliate against employees who:

• File complaints of discrimination or harassment on the job
• Participate in investigations, such as workplace safety or fraud probes
• Request accommodations for a disability or religious practice

Harassment includes unwelcome comments, sexual advances, threats, or bullying tied to your identity. These actions create a hostile work environment that can deeply affect your emotional and financial well-being.

Housing & Public Accommodations

Just like in the workplace, you have the right to be treated fairly in housing and public spaces. Discrimination in these settings includes:

• Refusing to rent to someone due to their national origin or sexual orientation
• Setting different terms or conditions based on race or religion
• Harassing tenants based on protected characteristics

If you were denied housing, evicted unfairly, or mistreated in a public space, our results-driven civil rights attorneys can help you determine if you are eligible to file a claim.

Abuse of Power in the Prison System

A person should not lose their humanity behind bars. Prisoners still have fundamental rights under the U.S. Constitution, and when prison staff violate those rights, the damage can be severe.

Our firm handles claims against correctional facilities, officers, and medical staff who cause harm to inmates through abuse, neglect, or indifference. 

Inmate Rights and Prison Abuse

Common civil rights violations in correctional settings include:

• Physical abuse by guards
• Sexual assault by staff or other inmates
• Denial of access to medical or mental health care
• Exposure to dangerous, unsanitary conditions

The Eighth Amendment protects against cruel and unusual punishment. If your loved one has suffered in prison, they may be entitled to financial compensation.

Wrongful Death and Medical Neglect in Custody

Too often, people in custody die needlessly due to untreated health issues, suicide, or violence that could have been prevented. In these tragic cases, families may bring a civil rights lawsuit for wrongful death.

We work closely with grieving families to investigate what happened, hold the responsible parties accountable, and seek justice in memory of the person who was lost.

Wrongful Imprisonment

Few experiences are more dehumanizing than being wrongfully imprisoned. Stripped of your freedom, your reputation, and often your connection to loved ones, wrongful incarceration leaves a deep psychological and emotional wound. You miss milestones. You lose time that cannot be replaced. And worst of all, you're forced to live in the reality of brutal injustice.

At The Perecman Firm, we represent individuals who have been unjustly incarcerated. We understand the shame, fear, and isolation you may have felt—and we fight to restore not just your freedom but your dignity. 

We recently settled a $4 million wrongful imprisonment lawsuit for a woman jailed for four years over a murder she did not commit.

If you were wrongfully convicted or held without cause, our New York City civil rights lawyers can help you seek accountability and compensation for the injustice you endured.

How Our NYC Civil Rights Lawyers Help You

When you're dealing with the aftermath of a civil rights violation, you deserve more than legal advice—you deserve fierce advocates. At The Perecman Firm, we take your case personally. From the moment you contact us, we treat your story as our mission.

We Are Your Advocates

Our first step is always to listen. We hear your story, understand your pain, and start building a relationship rooted in trust. You're never just a case to us. You're someone whose rights have been trampled, and it's our job to make it right.

We Build an Ironclad Case

We dig into every detail—gathering records, speaking to witnesses, bringing in experts, and building a case that leaves no doubt your rights were violated. We prepare every case for trial from the beginning. Our preparation, confidence, and skill are what win justice.

We Battle the Bullies

Whether it's a government agency, a large employer, or a powerful police union, we do not back down. We go toe-to-toe with the toughest opponents and force them to take responsibility. If that means going to court, we're ready.

Why Choose The Perecman Firm for Your Civil Rights Case?

Decades of Experience, Millions Recovered

We've recovered over $500 million in verdicts and settlements for our clients. Our civil rights work is built on four decades of relentless advocacy and personal commitment.

We’re Not a Volume Firm — You’re Our Priority

At The Perecman Firm, we don’t take on hundreds of cases at a time. We keep our caseload selective so we can give you the attention you deserve. You're never just a file—you're family.

Deep Knowledge of NY and Federal Civil Rights Law

Civil rights cases are complicated. Our attorneys understand the legal nuances of both state and federal protections. We’re equipped to take on everything from employment discrimination to police misconduct and wrongful conviction claims.

Frequently Asked Questions About Civil Rights Lawsuits and Claims

How Long Do NYC Civil Rights Cases Take?

No two civil rights cases are alike. Some resolve in months, while others may take a year or more, especially if they go to trial. We keep you updated every step of the way and move your case forward as efficiently as possible.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a NYC Civil Rights Case?

Depending on your case, you may be eligible for compensation that includes:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages (in cases of egregious misconduct)

We evaluate every possible source of recovery to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

What Is the Statute of Limitations in NYC?

If you're thinking about legal action, timing is everything. Civil rights claims have strict filing deadlines, and missing them could mean losing your chance to seek justice. Here's what you need to know:

• Federal claims (Section 1983): You generally have 3 years from the date your rights were violated.
• Claims against a NYC government agency: You must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident, and your lawsuit must be filed within 1 year and 90 days.

 The sooner you speak with us, the more we can do to protect your rights.

How do I know if my civil rights were violated? 

If you were treated unfairly by a government official, employer, landlord, or police officer based on a protected characteristic, or denied your constitutional rights, you may have a case. Contact us to find out.

Can I sue the NYPD for false arrest? 

Yes. If you were arrested without probable cause or a valid warrant, you may have grounds for a false arrest claim.

What if I was partly to blame? 

Civil rights cases often involve complex facts. Even if you think you share some responsibility, talk to an attorney. You may still be entitled to compensation.

What if I was wrongfully convicted? 

You may be able to file a lawsuit under Section 8-b of the NY Court of Claims Act if your conviction has been overturned. We can help evaluate your options.

How much does a civil rights lawyer cost? 

At the Perecman Firm, we believe that everyone should be able to access excellent legal representation for civil rights violations regardless of their financial situation. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing for our services unless we win your case.

Can I sue the government or prison for mistreatment? 

Yes. Civil rights lawsuits can be filed against government agencies and correctional facilities for abuse, neglect, or rights violations.

Contact a New York City Civil Rights Attorney Today

Your rights matter. Your voice matters. And when you’ve been silenced or mistreated, The Perecman Firm is ready to speak up and stand up for you.

If you’ve been wrongfully arrested, harassed, assaulted, or discriminated against, you need the strongest possible advocate beside you. Our NYC civil rights attorneys will guide you every step of the way, helping you seek justice and the maximum compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (212) 977-7033 or use our online form to schedule a free consultation.