How Do I Protect My Right To Vote?

By Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed May 13, 2024

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Take a look into the essential aspects of voting rights and gain a better understanding of the evolution of election laws.

Welcome to FindLaw's examination of how American voters can protect their voting rights. In the articles below, you'll find insight into U.S. election laws, legislative acts, protections against voter suppression, and processes that ensure your fundamental right to engage in the electoral process.

U.S. Election Laws

The articles below look into the evolution of election laws, the historical milestones that shaped them, and the protections to ensure each qualified U.S. citizen can participate in this democratic process. You'll come away with a better understanding of the federal laws that have evolved the process, including the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Help America Vote Act of 2002.

Evolution of U.S. Election Laws

Explore the evolution of voting rights in the United States. This article examines the early voting legislation and the civil rights movements that eliminated voting barriers. Voting rights history and law >

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 contributed to ensuring minorities have the right to vote. Congress has amended this law several times. Learn more about the Act and the changes made throughout the years. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 >

The U.S. Constitution does not give an absolute right to vote. Therefore, the federal government passed legislation to protect this fundamental right nationwide. Learn more about these laws here >

Learn about the history and impact of Jim Crow laws in the United States. This article details how Jim Crow laws triggered racial segregation and hindered African Americans from exercising their voting rights. Jim Crow Laws >

This article offers an overview of the cases that shaped the Voting Rights Acts in the United States. It highlights landmark U.S. Supreme Court cases and implications for voter access. Cases that have defined U.S. voting laws. >

The Help America Vote Act (HAVA) aims to improve the election process in the United States. It details the voter ID requirements, improvements in the voting system, and accessibility for voters with disability. It also discusses the establishment of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, which provides better election oversight. The HAVA Act >

Understanding Your Voting Rights

The following articles offer a comprehensive understanding of voter rights, eligibility for primary elections, and how to check your voter registration.

Your Voting Rights Explained

This article provides a basic understanding of voter rights, addressing obstacles like literacy tests and poll taxes. It also highlights voter ID requirements and other issues to ensure your rights to vote are protected. Learn more here >

In the past, anyone convicted of a felony was banned from voting, but this isn't the case anymore in many states. This section explains how felons now have a range of voting rights. Felon voting rights >

The article looks into primary elections and the process for Americans to participate in this electoral process. It explains the varying approaches of state legislatures for primary elections, starting with open, closed, and mixed primary systems. Visit the full article here >

Learn how to check your voter registration status and understand how you can register to vote. This article explains the registration process and crucial information for new voters. Check the article here >

Voting Accommodations and Inclusive Voting

This section provides a detailed look at the various voting accommodations in place to ensure an accessible and inclusive voting process. It looks into specialized federal laws for voters with disabilities, implementing multilingual ballots for language minority groups, and voting options for U.S. citizens voting abroad.

Voting Accommodations

This article presents an overview of voting accommodations for voters with disabilities. It highlights the importance of providing options such as curbside voting, absentee voting, and offering accessible voting technology and materials. Learn more about voting accommodations for people with disabilities >

The Voting Rights Act requires bilingual and multi-lingual ballots at select polling places. The law also requires poll workers who speak other languages to be present. These measures are in place to ensure that voters with limited English proficiency can participate in the election process. Voting accommodations for non-English speaking voters >

U.S. citizens who are abroad can still exercise their right to vote. This article details balloting for those who cannot vote in person during election day. This includes absentee voting, early voting, mail voting, and more. Voting for Americans outside of the United States >

The article discusses what absentee voting is and who can use absentee ballots. It highlights how the law varies in every jurisdiction and how each state law varies in its approach to mail-in voting. Visit the full article here >

The article offers a comprehensive overview of the role of provisional ballots in the election process. It emphasizes the circumstances under which these ballots are given and the state-by-state breakdown of laws. Learn more about provisional ballots here >

When You Face Voting Challenges

The following articles address the different challenges voters may face, which could affect their ability to participate in the electoral process. From the insidious tactics of voter suppression to electioneering and election interference, this section presents advice and information for voters.

Voting Suppression and Other Challenges

Voter suppression involves any activity designed to prevent eligible voters from voting or registering to vote. Have you or your loved one been a victim of voter suppression? Find out what voter suppression is and what you can do about it. What is voter suppression? >

Can I vote if I don't have an ID? Which IDs are acceptable at the polling station? The answer to these questions and more depends on the state you're voting in. Learn more about the different voter ID laws here. >

Voting while in college comes with unique challenges, especially if you are out of state. This article explains the different challenges college students face when voting. >

Do you suspect you or someone you know is facing voter intimidation? Learn the common types of voter intimidation and the legal protections available. Voter intimidation >

This article provides important information for voters denied at the polls. It emphasizes your right to verify voter registration and cast provisional ballots. Read this to discover what you can do if you are turned away from the polls. >

This article explores electioneering and interference. It details actions prohibited near polling places, the importance of following these practices to ensure the integrity of elections, and the election officials in place to enforce these rules. Electioneering laws page. >

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The following are some of the frequently asked questions about voting rights and procedures:

What are the voting rights protections in the U.S. Constitution?

Various provisions in the Constitution touch on the rights of citizens of the United States to vote. Among them is the 14th Amendment in conjunction with the 15th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The Fourteenth Amendment guarantees equal protection of the laws, while the Fifteenth Amendment is the provision that protects the rights of U.S. citizens to vote.

There's also the 19th Amendment, which ensures everyone's right to vote regardless of sex. The 24th Amendment abolished poll tax, and the 26th Amendment guarantees the right of all U.S. citizens of voting age the right to vote.

Who can vote in the local, state, and federal elections?

The eligibility to vote in the U.S. for local, state, and federal elections including presidential elections depends on various factors. The following are some of the essential qualifications to be eligible to vote:

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Met the state's residency requirements
  • Voting age of at least 18 years old on or before Election Day
  • Registered to vote

Note that some states allow non-U.S. citizen electors to vote in local government elections. Some states, such as North Dakota, do not require voter registration. Other states allow same-day voter registration.

How do I vote by mail?

To vote by mail, you must first check your eligibility based on your state requirements. You then need to request a mail-in ballot from your local election office.

Once you receive your ballot, you must complete it carefully, following all the instructions. You also have to observe the guidelines for signing and sealing your ballot.

Finally, you must return your ballot by mailing it in or dropping it off at the designated drop boxes.

Seek Legal Advice From a Civil Rights Attorney

Navigating the complexities of election laws and potential voting rights issues requires informed legal guidance. Facing uncertainties about your voting eligibility or challenges at the polling station can be daunting.

You are not alone in this process. A civil rights attorney can provide legal advice and support to secure your rights. This legal professional can advocate on your behalf and clarify your issues. If you or someone you know are facing difficulties with your voting rights, seeking legal advice from a civil rights attorney is helpful to secure your participation in the electoral process.

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Understand Your Voting Rights

FindLaw.com is making it easier than ever to understand your voting rights, how to vote on Election Day (or earlier), and what to do if your right to vote is threatened.

Election law professor and expert David Schultz explains the history of voting rights and the legal and practical challenges voters face today. Read the transcript here.