Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” At Harfenist Kraut & Perlstein LLP, we firmly believe in that principle and proudly represent New Yorkers in civil rights litigation.
Our firm is recognized for its seasoned trial attorneys, who are not afraid to take cases to court when justice demands it. Whether before a jury or across the negotiation table, we bring strategic experience and relentless advocacy to every matter we handle.
From instances of police brutality or wrongful arrests to race or gender discrimination in the workplace, we fight for those the legal system has failed. We understand how stressful and emotional these cases can be — and we work to make the process of seeking justice as straightforward and supportive as possible.
Everyone in New York has the right to equal protection under the law.
Call 516-355-9600 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.
Laws That Protect Your Civil Rights
Civil rights cases in New York are complex because no single law outlines all your rights. Instead, your protections come from a combination of local, state, and federal statutes — and from court decisions interpreting those laws. Below are some of the key legal foundations our attorneys draw upon.
Federal Civil Rights Laws
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a cornerstone of civil rights protections, banning discrimination in employment and public accommodations.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, from workplaces to public facilities.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and family status.
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) safeguards workers aged 40 and older from age-based discrimination.
State Civil Rights Laws
The New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, education, credit, and access to public services throughout the state.
The Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) protects public school students from harassment, discrimination, and bullying based on race, color, national origin, weight, disability, gender, or religion.
Local Civil Rights Laws
The New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) is one of the nation’s most comprehensive civil rights laws. It prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on protected categories such as race, gender, disability, religion, and sexual orientation.
Understanding how these laws intersect is essential when pursuing a civil rights claim. Our attorneys have the depth of knowledge and courtroom experience needed to guide you through these intricacies — and to hold those responsible accountable.
New York Civil Rights Cases We Handle
The civil rights attorneys at Harfenist Kraut & Perlstein LLP proudly represent those whose fundamental rights have been violated. Our team handles a wide range of matters, including:
Employment Discrimination
A fair workplace is not a privilege — it’s a right. We fight for employees who have suffered discrimination in pay, promotion, termination, or work environment due to race, sex, age, disability, religion, or other protected traits. Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations and pursue justice with the goal of restoring dignity and fairness.
Housing Discrimination
Everyone deserves a home free from prejudice. We represent individuals denied housing or financing because of unlawful discrimination. Our team uses both state and federal law to protect our clients’ rights and secure just outcomes.
Police Brutality & Misconduct
Law enforcement officers have a duty to protect, not to harm. We represent victims of excessive force, unlawful detention, and other forms of police misconduct — not only to secure justice for individuals, but to help drive systemic reform and accountability.
False Arrests, Wrongful Convictions, and Malicious Prosecution
Few injustices are as devastating as being wrongfully accused or imprisoned. Our attorneys have significant trial experience representing clients whose lives have been upended by false arrests, fabricated evidence, or malicious prosecution. We meticulously investigate every detail — from bodycam footage to police reports — and build cases that expose misconduct and demand accountability.
Whether through litigation or settlement, our goal is to restore your freedom, reputation, and peace of mind.
Sexual or Physical Abuse by Police or Prison Staff
Every individual deserves dignity and protection, even while in custody. We advocate for victims of sexual or physical abuse by law enforcement or corrections personnel, fighting for justice, compensation, and institutional reform.
Racial Profiling
We stand against discriminatory policing practices that target individuals based on race or ethnicity. Through strategic litigation, we seek to challenge systemic bias and reaffirm the principle of equal treatment under the law.
Unlawful Searches and Seizures
The Fourth Amendment protects your right to privacy. Our attorneys aggressively defend clients against violations of these constitutional protections, challenging improper searches, detentions, and seizures in both state and federal courts.
Voting Rights Violations
The right to vote is the foundation of democracy. We represent individuals whose voting rights have been restricted or suppressed and fight to ensure every eligible citizen can participate freely and fairly.
What To Do If Someone Violates Your Civil Rights
If you believe that your civil rights have been violated, act promptly and take these steps:
Document the Incident
Record every detail of the event as soon as possible while memories are fresh — including the date, time, location, people involved, witnesses, and sequence of events. If you suffered physical harm (e.g., injuries from police brutality), take photographs. This documentation can be critical evidence.
Collect Evidence
Gather all available materials that may support your case — photos, videos, emails, texts, or other communications. Obtain witness contact information whenever possible.
Report the Incident
Depending on the violation, report it to the appropriate authority. For example, employment discrimination should be reported to your HR department, while police misconduct should be reported to a supervisor or the department’s internal affairs division.
Contact a Civil Rights Attorney
Reach out to a law firm with civil rights litigation experience as soon as possible, such as Harfenist Kraut & Perlstein LLP. An attorney can explain your rights, help file complaints with local, state, or federal agencies, and guide you toward the best legal strategy.
Take Care of Yourself
Civil rights violations can be emotionally and physically draining. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or professionals to help maintain your well-being as you navigate the process.
Staunch Protectors Of Your Rights
Everyone deserves their civil rights to be respected and upheld.
At Harfenist Kraut & Perlstein LLP, we are committed to defending those who have been mistreated, discriminated against, or wrongfully accused — and to holding those responsible fully accountable.
Call 516 355-9600 or 914-701-0800 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our civil rights litigation team. We are ready to stand with you — and fight for the justice you deserve.