California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act Attorney in Los Angeles, California

At Nadine Lewis, Attorney at Law, we believe in the importance of understanding your rights. One of the most influential pieces of legislation in California is the Unruh Civil Rights Act. It’s a powerful law enacted in 1959 that provides protection against discrimination by all business establishments in the state. As advocates for justice and equality, we are committed to ensuring that our clients understand this pivotal act.

This law derives its name from Jesse Unruh, a longstanding speaker of the California Assembly who championed civil rights. The Act is a testament to the state’s commitment to promoting equal rights and opportunities for all, irrespective of one’s background or personal characteristics. We stand behind the principles of this Act, ensuring that everyone we represent is treated with respect and dignity.

What Does the Unruh Civil Rights Act Cover?

In essence, the Unruh Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, or sexual orientation. At our firm, we’re dedicated to ensuring that individuals and businesses alike comply with these regulations.

The Act applies not just to overt forms of discrimination but also to more subtle, indirect types often seen in policies that appear neutral but have a disproportionate impact on certain groups. Our job is to identify these instances and fight against them.

Who Does the Unruh Civil Rights Act Protect?

The Unruh Civil Rights Act protects every individual in California, whether they’re a resident or a visitor. It covers interactions with all business establishments, including but not limited to hotels, restaurants, theaters, hospitals, barber shops, public agencies, and retail stores.

We’re here to ensure that you’re not denied full and equal services on the grounds of belonging to a protected category. We believe in the principles of fairness and equality, and we’re here to stand up for you if those principles are violated.

Examples of Unruh Civil Rights Violations

Unruh Civil Rights violations can take many forms. They range from a restaurant refusing service based on a customer’s race, to a landlord denying housing to a person because of their sexual orientation, or businesses charging different prices based on gender.

In our experience, it’s often the less obvious cases that slip through the cracks. That’s why we’re vigilant in identifying any form of discrimination, no matter how subtle it may appear.

How to File an Unruh Civil Rights Act Claim

If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination covered by the Unruh Civil Rights Act, there are specific steps you can take to file a claim and pursue justice. Here is an overview of the process:

• Gather Evidence: Document any incident of discrimination, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses or statements from others. This can include written correspondence, receipts, photographs, or videos.
• File a Complaint: You must file a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) in the state of California. This can be done online, by mail, or by phone.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Consider consulting with an attorney who is knowledgeable about civil rights law to help guide you through the process and represent your interests.
• Mediation or Investigation: The DFEH may offer mediation services to resolve the dispute out of court. If mediation is not successful or not appropriate for your case, the DFEH will investigate the complaint.
• Civil Action: If the DFEH investigation finds evidence of discrimination and the case is not resolved, you may be able to take civil action. An attorney can help you with this step.

Keep in mind that there are statutes of limitations, or deadlines, by which you must file your claim with the DFEH. It is important to act promptly to preserve your right to file a claim under the Unruh Civil Rights Act.

Legal Remedies Under the Unruh Civil Rights Act

If a violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act is proven, there are several remedies available. These can include damages for emotional distress, punitive damages, and attorney’s fees. In some instances, a court may also order the offending business to change its policies or practices.

What to Do If You’ve Been Accused of Violating the Unruh Civil Rights Act

If your business has been accused of or is being charged with a violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act, it is crucial to take immediate action to address the situation. Here are the steps you should follow:

• Respond Promptly: Acknowledge any complaints or official notices you receive and respond to them within the specified deadlines to avoid escalating the situation.
• Review Your Policies: Examine your business practices and policies to ensure they comply with the Unruh Civil Rights Act and do not inadvertently discriminate.
• Consult with an Attorney: Retain legal counsel who specializes in civil rights and business law to review the accusations and advise you on the best course of action.
• Gather Documentation: Compile all relevant business records, documents, and communications that may demonstrate your compliance with the Act or rebut the accusations made against you.
• Educate Your Staff: Ensure that all employees are trained on nondiscrimination policies and procedures, which can be critical to preventing future incidents and demonstrating your commitment to civil rights.
• Assess and Mitigate: Work with your attorney to assess any potential legal liabilities and to put any necessary remedies or improvements in place.

At Nadine Lewis, Attorney at Law, we’re committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for you. We’ll fight tirelessly to ensure that justice is served and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Remember, we’re in this together. Your fight is our fight.