Lancaster Civil Rights Lawyer
Last updated on December 23, 2025
As an American, it’s essential to understand and protect one’s civil rights. Protected by the Constitution and upheld by federal and state laws, these rights shield individuals from discrimination and ensure fair treatment under the law. However, violations of these rights occur, undermining the principles of justice and equality. At Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC, we offer legal assistance to those who believe their rights have been infringed upon. Our Lancaster civil rights lawyer is dedicated to restoring justice and fighting on your behalf.
Federal Protections Against Civil Rights Violations
Americans have robust protections under various federal laws designed to prevent civil rights violations. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin in employment contexts. Similarly, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 shields individuals from age-based discrimination, supporting fairness and equity regardless of one’s age. These laws, among others, protect against discrimination, asserting the dignity and rights of every individual.
Types of Civil Rights Violations
Civil rights violations can take many forms, and each requires careful legal analysis to protect the freedoms guaranteed under the law:
- Police misconduct: The authority granted to law enforcement does not include the right to infringe upon citizens’ civil liberties. Excessive force, false arrest and malicious prosecution represent egregious civil rights violations. Our attorneys are experienced in holding police accountable and securing justice for victims.
- First Amendment rights violations: The First Amendment protects the freedom of speech, a right central to democracy. While certain limitations are permissible, any encroachment by the government on this freedom must be scrutinized. Our legal team is adept at navigating First Amendment issues, ensuring your voice is heard and protected.
- Employment discrimination: Discrimination in the workplace is illegal. Our deep understanding of employment discrimination laws empowers us to effectively advocate for those wronged in their professional environments, addressing issues from hiring practices to hostile work conditions.
Our experience in various civil rights violations allows us to carefully navigate the nuances of your case, taking into consideration your specific circumstances. We work hard to deliver dependable legal insight and help you determine what it will take to protect your rights.
Our Commitment to Justice
At Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC, our experience extends beyond understanding the law; we are committed to applying it effectively to secure your rights. Our attorneys are skilled in representing clients across a spectrum of civil rights cases with a proven track record of success. We approach each case with meticulous preparation, developing a tailored strategy to ensure the strongest possible advocacy. Throughout the legal process, we stand by our clients, offering guidance as we pursue the outcome you deserve.
Know Your Civil Rights
It is important that you know your civil rights in all situations. These include, but are not limited to:
- Your right to free speech
- Your right to freely assemble
- Your right to avoid making statements that incriminate yourself during interactions with law enforcement
- Your right to be treated fairly in the hiring process and the workplace
The Right to Free Speech
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution grants individuals the right to free speech, which means that the government cannot prohibit an individual from openly expressing himself or herself in most situations. The First Amendment also prohibits the federal government from establishing a state religion or prohibiting individuals from practicing their religions and expressing their religious beliefs.
The Right to Fair Treatment by Police
Although officers may use force to restrain individuals under arrest, they cannot use excessive force. Excessive force is defined as physical force that goes beyond what is necessary to restrain the individual, which depends on the details of the situation. For example, using a taser on a peaceful demonstrator may be deemed to be excessive force, whereas using the taser on a violent individual believed to be a hazard to others generally would not be.
Other civil rights regarding police interactions include the right to refuse to comply with a search if the officer does not have a valid search warrant, the right to refuse to answer an officer’s questions and the right to seek legal counsel before interacting with police.
Discrimination and Civil Rights
Discrimination is the unfair treatment of an individual based on his or her race, sex, religion, ethnicity, national origin or disability. In the workplace, this means employers cannot overlook an individual for employment or promotion based on one of these factors, nor can they terminate or segregate employees based on them.
The Fair Housing Act also makes it illegal for landlords, realtors and mortgage lenders to discriminate against prospective buyers, borrowers and tenants based on these factors.
Discuss Your Case with a Lancaster Civil Rights Lawyer
Understanding and protecting your civil rights is possible alongside an attorney. When these rights are challenged, it’s important to seek dependable legal guidance from an attorney who is experienced in handling civil rights violations. Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC embodies this dedication to justice. Our team is ready to act on your behalf. If you suspect a violation of your civil rights, do not hesitate to reach out. Contact us today at 614-762-9727 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your freedoms with our Lancaster civil rights lawyer at your side.