Since 1866 Congress has provided a remedy for the denial of a person’s federal constitutional and statutory rights under color of state law. Thus, for example, when state officials violate an individual’s rights to be free from unreasonable searches, abridge freedom of speech, deny the right of free exercise of religion, or subject a person to excessive force, the individual has the right to seek redress under Section 1983 of Title 42 of the United States Code. Other civil rights statutes protect people from discrimination by private persons. Individuals are entitled to receive equal treatment in many situations including employment, education and housing. Under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion or national origin is prohibited. And under the Washington Law Against Discrimination, a person cannot be discriminated against on the basis of marital status or sexual orientation either.

Our attorneys bring suits against government officials for the violation of constitutional rights. Such suits may involve police misconduct, improper license revocation, improper imposition of taxes or the denial of equal protection under the law. We have in-depth experience in cases involving First Amendment free speech. We represent people whose rights to freedom of religion have been abridged.

For example, we represent people:

We also file suits against both government and private parties for people who have discrimination claims. Such claims include suits brought by victims of sexual harassment, employment discrimination, public accommodation discrimination, education discrimination and discrimination in housing or voting on the basis on age, disability, national origin, gender, race and religion.

Also see www.seattlecriminalappeals.com