Best Civil rights Lawyer in California
Carmen Sabater
Civil Rights Lawyer
Carmen Sabater graduated from Concordia College in Bronxville, NY and earned her law degree from Ventura College of Law. Ms. Sabater began her advocacy in vigorously pursuing to protect the civil and constitutional rights of others when she was 20 years old and sworn in as an NYPD Police Officer. Ms. Sabater’s recent accolades include being selected to the Southern California Rising Star list for 2019 and 2020.
During Ms. Sabater’s career as a police officer, her experiences ranged from patrolling the streets in New York to preparing cases for arraignment at the Bronx Criminal Courthouse to working in the elite Organized Crime Control Bureau (OCCB) as an undercover officer. Once she retired, she got her paralegal certification. While in law school, she became a certified mediator by the Ventura Center for Dispute Settlement. Ms. Sabater is well versed in dispute resolution, understanding that parties can sometimes be well served by early settlement as an alternative to litigation and trial. However, in cases where trial is necessary, Ms. Sabater has been a fierce advocate in assisting the team at V. James DeSimone Law achieve trial victory after trial victory on behalf of their clients.
Chris Dolan
Civil Rights Lawyer
Recognized as one of the top plaintiff’s lawyers in California and founder and Chief Legal Counsel of the Dolan Law Firm, Chris Dolan spearheads significant and challenging lawsuits filed in California state and federal courts against insurance companies, Fortune 500 companies, cities and other public agencies, and product manufacturers.
Under Chris’ leadership, the Dolan Law Firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for its clients and become one of California’s premier plaintiffs’ firms serving clients injured due to the fault of another or were discriminated against or treated unfairly in the workplace.
Possessing a “history of winning multi-million judgments for his clients,” as noted by the San Francisco Business Times, Chris has successfully tried over 46 cases and settled hundreds of lawsuits on favorable terms for his clients.
Chris supervises all cases litigated by the Dolan Law Firm. He has obtained jury verdicts or settlements of more than $1 million in over 26 cases. Some of the settlements in these cases were for amounts exceeding $10 million but were confidential and cannot be listed.
Chris’ unparalleled success in civil litigation includes the largest verdict – $61 million – ever in U.S. history for individuals subjected to racial and ethnic discrimination and harassment in violation of their civil rights. The case involved two Lebanese-Americans who after 9/11 were repeatedly taunted by their manager and coworkers as “terrorists,” “sand niggers,” and other slurs.
Trina Cervantes
Civil Rights Lawyer
Ms. Cervantes’ legal career began in 2004 as a legal assistant. Working closely with clients directly, she gained a special insight into what each and every client was going through during the course of their cases. Ms. Cervantes’ empathy and passion for her clients grew far beyond her station at the time, propelling her to change the trajectory of her life to truly become the best advocate for those in need. As a single mom, she juggled a full-time job while attending night school until she earned her Juris Doctorate in 2015. She passed the California Bar Examination shortly after and was admitted to practice law in May of 2015. She is now a proud partner at Villapudua & Somera, PC – a firm that works tirelessly to fight for their clients.
Rickey Ivie
Civil Rights Lawyer
Rickey Ivie is a Founding Partner of Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs, a practicing Litigation Attorney, and a Community Leader passionate about diversity and serving others. Since joining IMW in 1980, Mr. Ivie has remained dedicated to building and leading a diverse legal team that excels in providing legal services to the diverse global community. Under his leadership, IMW has grown into a secure and inspiring workplace for all employees.
As an attorney, Mr. Ivie feels privileged to serve others daily. He is committed to providing the best legal services possible for his clients, making sure that services are available to all areas of the community regardless of race or social status of his clients. He works hard to earn the trust of his clients and is relentless in fighting for their desired outcomes.
Mr. Ivie provides legal service to individuals, public entities, and well-known businesses including restaurants, entertainment companies, insurance companies and banks. He handles a range of legal cases related to personal injury, civil rights, contract disputes, cannabis law compliance and litigation, and trademark and copyright disputes.
Mr. Ivie has tried numerous jury and court trials, in both state and federal courts, including precedent-setting cases that have changed the practice of law and improved the lives of millions of people over his four decades of experience.
Mr. Ivie is a member of the State Bar of California and is admitted to the United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court. He is frequently invited to speak at State Bar of California events on topics such as ethics, effective fee agreements, interacting with judges and opening a law office.
E. Page Allinson
Civil Rights Lawyer
Mr. Allinson joined Perry Johnson Anderson Miller & Moskowitz LLP in September 2017 as part of its structured finance & distressed investments practice group. Through his practice, Mr. Allinson represents clients in the financial services industry in both Sonoma County and around the country as well as well as businesses and start-ups. Mr. Allinson also represents individuals and families in probate matters including conservatorships and trusts and estate disputes.
After graduating cum laude from Whittier Law School in 2012, Mr. Allinson worked as a litigation associate for Napoli Bern Ripka Shkolnik & Associates, LLP in the firm’s Toxic Tort Division in El Segundo, California. While practicing in Los Angeles, Mr. Allinson also worked with Farrise Law as a litigation associate, concentrating on toxic tort, employment discrimination, and contract dispute matters. Mr. Allinson moved to Northern California in January 2015, and joined American Mortgage Law Group, P.C., representing clients in mortgage repurchase and indemnification defense and workout matters, as well as related mitigation and litigation matters.
BRIAN DAVALOS
Civil Rights Lawyer
Brian Davalos was born and raised in Stockton California and sought out the practice of law so that he could build a diverse firm where his practice would provide clients with the option of an attorney who believes in social justice and equal access to the courtroom. While he left San Joaquin County for a career in entertainment, the practice of law called him back to his native Stockton, California where he built his practice from the ground up as a brick and mortar in 2014.
For the last five years Brian has been retained on civil and criminal matters throughout the State of California and pursues justice wherever he finds a client in need. While he enjoys the practice of law, Brian also participates as a member of the Asian Bar of Sacramento, Sacramento Filipino Lawyers Association and most of all enjoys spending time with his family.
Daniel J. Ogden
Civil Rights Lawyer
Daniel J. Ogden is the managing attorney at Ogden Law Firm, PC. His practice consists of estate planning and real estate transactions. Mr. Ogden is an experienced trust and estate planning attorney, helping clients form and administer their successions plans for the next generation, with a particular interest in real estate holdings. In addition, Mr. Ogden has an extensive background in commercial real estate transactions, assisting clients with large and complex purchase and sale agreements.
Prior to joining the Firm, Mr. Ogden obtained his B.A. in Economics from the University of Colorado at Boulder. He then Graduated with Distinction from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law. He was admitted to the Roger J. Traynor Honor Society, a Scholastic Honor Organization. Mr. Ogden achieved the Academics Dean’s List all through law school and Graduated with Distinction, finishing in the top third of his class. He also clerked at the United States Attorney’s Office in Sacramento, CA.
Mr. Ogden is admitted to practice before all the courts of the State of California and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California. He is also a member of the Stanislaus County Bar Association, the Real Property Law Section of the California of the State Bar of California, and the Stanislaus County Estate Planning Council.
Kyle Todd, Esq.
Civil Rights Lawyer
Since founding the firm in 2013, Kyle Todd has developed the reputation as a social justice lawyer, fighting for oppressed workers throughout California. His goal in his practice has always been simple: to obtain stellar results for his clients, to compensate them for workplace injustices, and to do so in a way that maintains a connection between them and the firm, creating an attorney-client “justice team” along the way.
An activist from an early age, Mr. Todd has long used his talents to advocate for the oppressed. In 2009, he enrolled at UCLA School of Law, where he received specializations from the Critical Race Theory and Public Interest Law programs. Shortly after graduating, he struck out on his own, and has since made a name for himself as a tireless advocate, unafraid to take on powerful defendants in order to get justice for his clients.
Mr. Todd has now represented hundreds of individuals, obtaining millions in verdicts and settlements for those who have suffered workplace injustices. By refusing to accept low-ball offers from powerful defendants and their insurance companies, Mr. Todd has made it clear: he will make these entities pay their fair dues for violating his client’s rights. At the same time, Mr. Todd’s firm has forged close connections with the individuals who have given them the honor as serving as their attorneys. The firm listens to their trauma, they hear their grief, and they put these clients first in their fight to get them fairly compensated.
As a practitioner, Mr. Todd is, above all, an exceptional trial lawyer, and has been recognized as such by his legal peers. SuperLawyers has put him on its list several years in a row, and Avvo.com gives Mr. Todd 10/10 in its employment attorney rankings. However, more than accolades, Mr. Todd has always done this work for the satisfaction of knowing that his work sits on the right side of history, for in the words of Martin Luther King, Jr.:
The Golden State’s Fight for Justice: Why You Need a Top-Tier Civil Rights Attorney in California
California, a land of boundless opportunity and progressive ideals, enshrines civil rights in its very foundation. Yet, even in the land of sunshine, injustices can occur. From discriminatory hiring practices to excessive police force, violations of your fundamental rights can leave you feeling frustrated, angry, and unsure of where to turn. This is where a top-tier civil rights attorney in California steps in, becoming your champion and fierce advocate in the fight for justice. This comprehensive guide explores the invaluable benefits of retaining a skilled civil rights attorney who will fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are upheld and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding California’s Civil Rights Landscape and Your Protections
California boasts robust civil rights laws that extend beyond federal protections. Understanding these laws and how they apply to your situation empowers you to seek justice:
- Know Your Rights: California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act, Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), and Civil Code offer extensive protections against discrimination based on race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, and pregnancy. A knowledgeable civil rights attorney in California ensures you understand the specific laws that apply to your situation and explores legal options if your rights have been violated.
- Gathering Evidence: Building a strong civil rights case hinges on meticulous evidence gathering. Your attorney can assist you in collecting documents, emails, recordings, witness testimonies, and other evidence that demonstrates your rights were violated.
- Filing Complaints with Fair Employment and Housing Commission (FEHC) or Department of Fair Housing and Employment (DFEH): California offers administrative remedies through the FEHC and DFEH. A skilled attorney can guide you through the complaint process and ensure your rights are protected throughout.
- Negotiating Settlements: Civil rights cases often settle outside of court. Your attorney negotiates aggressively on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that reflects the harm you’ve suffered.
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will represent you in court, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
- Understanding California Statute of Limitations: California imposes time limits for filing civil rights lawsuits, which vary depending on the specific claim. Your lawyer ensures you meet all deadlines and file your claim within the designated timeframe.
Beyond Legal Expertise: The Qualities of a Top-Tier Civil Rights Attorney in California
Not all civil rights attorneys are created equal. Here’s what sets the best California civil rights lawyers apart:
- Extensive Experience in California Civil Rights Law: In-depth knowledge of California’s specific civil rights laws, precedents, and enforcement procedures is crucial. Look for an attorney with a proven track record of success handling cases similar to yours in California.
- Passion for Social Justice: Civil rights law is more than just legal expertise; it’s about fighting for a more just and equitable society. Seek an attorney who shares your passion for social justice and is committed to making a positive difference.
- Strategic Litigation Skills: Civil rights cases can be complex and require strategic navigation of the legal system. Your attorney should possess a strong track record of success in court and a deep understanding of litigation strategies.
- Building Strong Client Relationships: Civil rights cases can be emotionally charged. Your attorney should possess excellent communication skills and prioritize building a trusting and supportive relationship with you throughout the legal journey.
- Competitive Fees and Flexible Payment Structures: Civil rights attorneys may offer various fee structures, including hourly rates, contingency fees (where you only pay if they win), or pro bono work (free legal representation). Discuss options upfront to ensure transparency and find a structure that fits your financial circumstances.
Finding the Right Advocate: Resources for Legal Representation in California
- Seek Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, or colleagues who have faced discrimination and inquire about their lawyers.
- California State Bar Association: Contact the California State Bar Association for referrals to qualified civil rights attorneys in your area.
- California Civil Rights Organizations: Several organizations in California offer legal assistance or referrals to civil rights attorneys, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of California or the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Online Resources: Several online legal directories allow you to search for civil rights lawyers in California based on location, experience, client reviews, and areas of expertise in civil rights law.