What Is Civil Rights Law?

Civil Rights Legal Issues

Civil rights encompass the basic human rights that all Americans are guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Federal and state constitutional law, statutes, administrative regulations, and judicial interpretation have defined and expanded these civil rights over time.

Many civil rights, such as the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure, are granted explicitly by the U.S. Constitution. Other civil rights have been created by statutes enacted by Congress or state legislatures, such as the right to be free from discrimination based on race, or the right to receive equal pay for equal work. Federal statutes in the area of civil rights law include the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Equal Pay Act, among others. Other federal laws, supplemented by court decisions, prohibit discrimination in voting rights, housing, public education, and access to public facilities.

The U.S. Supreme Court, along with its state counterparts, has played a critical role in helping to define civil rights law. The High Court has repeatedly ruled that civil rights imply a right to privacy, even though the U.S. Constitution does not explicitly grant this right.

The many sources of civil rights and the fact that courts often modify or clarify these rights make civil rights law one of the most complex areas of practice, and many civil rights lawyers spend years gaining experience to become effective advocates for your rights.

Terms to Know

• Civil Rights Act - A federal law enacted to enforce and protect basic personal rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution; prohibits discrimination based on race, color, age, or religion
• Discrimination - Unfair treatment or denial of normal privileges to a person because of his or her race, age, sex, nationality, or religion; some states may add additional characteristics, such as sexual orientation or political affiliation, to this list
• Equal Protection Clause - A clause in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution that prohibits any state from denying any person the equal protection of the law
• Protected Class - A group of people intended to be protected by a statute passed by the federal or state legislature
• Disparate Treatment - Treatment of a individual in a less favorable manner than others for discriminatory reasons

For more legal definitions, visit the FindLaw Legal Dictionary.

Other Considerations When Hiring a Civil Rights Lawyer

In addition to individual lawyers and law firms that take civil rights cases, many nonprofit organizations provide legal resources and even pro bono legal representation to individuals whose civil rights have been violated. Many of these organizations focus on helping particular protected classes.

If you have a civil rights legal issue, contact a civil rights lawyer immediately to protect your rights and explore your legal options.

Related Practice Areas

• Constitutional Law
• Discrimination
• Criminal Law
• Sexual Harassment
• Employment Law — Employee
• Employment Law — Employer