Steps You Should Take When Your Civil Rights Have Been Violated
1. Know your rights
Only a small proportion of Americans know the contents of the Bill Of Rights. They have not taken some effort to know about their rights. While it may seem reasonable for a person to deny you housing because you have children, it is a violation of civil rights. There are simple versions of the Bill Of Rights, but still few find it worthwhile.
2. Gather the facts
Immediately after suspecting that you were discriminated write down all the details including the experience. You may forget this information if you don’t. Jot down the conversation, the actions, the people around, witnesses, date, time, and any other details you can remember. Your civil rights lawyer will use this information to prepare and argue your case.
3. Confirm through testing
There are professional testers who organize a test of proof that a person or entity is discriminating people based on their color, religion or any other civil right. Alternatively, you may opt for personal testing. Some people have used social media to bring together all the victims of discrimination. Testing helps strengthen your claim.
4. Consult a civil rights attorney
At this stage, you already know your rights, and you suspect that they have been violated. A qualified attorney will help your structure your claim. Help you choose the best strategy, and more importantly, represent your interests at all times.
5. Seek redress
A civil discrimination can be dealt with through an out-of-court settlement, private lawsuit, or a government claim through relevant authority. Legal redress may include punitive damages, compensatory damages, injunctions or even attorney fees.
While some people may opt to go it alone, the process is not straightforward. You should consider hiring a lawyer to guide you through the process. Most people lose out discrimination cases because of lack of guidance.
It is always advisable to start the process of redress through informal negotiations, before proceeding to court or government authorities. However, watch out for the timelines. You are supposed to make a discrimination claim within the stipulated time frame. If you are late, you may not get exceptions.