Civil Rights vs. Civil Liberties: What You Need to Know

When it comes to protecting yourself, understanding your rights as a citizen is a crucial starting point. You may hear civil rights and civil liberties used interchangeably, but they each have their own meanings and implications. Both are essential for maintaining a fair society and at Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we want our clients, current and future, to have a clear understanding of the differences between the two. If your civil rights or liberties were infringed upon, seek expert legal representation at our New York firm. We’ll help you pursue justice.

Civil Rights

Civil rights are defined by the rights of individuals to be free from discrimination and unfair treatment by the government or other individuals. These rights are protected by laws such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin. Civil rights ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities and protections under the law.

Civil Liberties

Civil liberties, on the other hand, are defined as the basic rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to individuals by the Constitution, such as freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and privacy. These rights protect individuals from government intrusion and ensure that they have the ability to express themselves and live their lives without interference.

Civil Rights vs. Civil Liberties: Know the Difference

To discern whether a situation involves civil rights or civil liberties, it’s important to understand the context in which the rights are being violated. Civil rights typically involve discrimination or unfair treatment based on certain characteristics, such as race or gender, while civil liberties focus on protecting individual freedoms from government interference. Consider asking yourself:

1. What right is being affected?
2. Whose right is being affected?
3. Is this protected by the Bill of Rights and/or the U.S. Constitution?

By asking yourself these questions, you can provide clarity on whether the issue at hand involves civil rights or civil liberties. For example, if a person is being discriminated against in the workplace because of their race or gender, this would be a violation of their civil rights. On the other hand, if the government is monitoring an individual’s online activity without their consent, this would be a violation of their civil liberties.

If you believe your civil rights or liberties have been violated, it’s crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible. The attorneys at Konta Georges & Buza P.C. have extensive experience in civil rights cases and can help you navigate the legal process to seek justice and accountability. Remember, understanding your rights is the first step in protecting yourself and ensuring a fair society for all. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm if you believe your rights have been violated. We are here to fight for you and uphold the principles of justice and equality.

Schedule your free case evaluation with us if you or a loved one’s civil rights have been violated. You maintain the right to fair and equal treatment under the law, and we are here to ensure that those rights are protected.

Common Civil Rights Violations in NYC

New York, with its vibrant diversity and rich cultural tapestry, stands as a beacon of civil liberties and individual freedoms. However, despite its progressive reputation, instances of civil rights violations persist in the state. At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we are committed to safeguarding the rights of all individuals and holding accountable those who seek to infringe upon them. Here are some common civil rights violations that occur in New York:

Police Misconduct

Instances of police brutality, excessive use of force, racial profiling, and unlawful searches and seizures are among the most prevalent civil rights violations in New York. Communities of color, immigrants, and marginalized populations often bear the brunt of these abuses, leading to a breakdown in trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Discrimination in Employment

Despite legal protections against discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, and other factors, workplace discrimination remains a pervasive issue in New York. Employees may face harassment, unequal pay, retaliation for whistleblowing, or denial of employment opportunities based on discriminatory practices.

Housing Discrimination

Discrimination in housing, including rental, sales, and lending practices, continues to be a problem in New York. Landlords and real estate agents may engage in discriminatory practices based on race, ethnicity, familial status, disability, or other protected characteristics, denying individuals access to housing or subjecting them to unequal treatment.

Prisoners’ Rights

Individuals in New York’s correctional facilities are entitled to certain rights and protections under the law, including access to adequate medical care, protection from violence and abuse, and due process in disciplinary proceedings. However, overcrowding, understaffing, and inadequate conditions often lead to violations of prisoners’ rights.

Immigrants’ Rights

Immigrants in New York may face a myriad of civil rights violations, including racial profiling, unlawful detention, deportation without due process, and denial of access to essential services. Immigrant communities are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by employers, landlords, and law enforcement agencies.

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we stand ready to advocate for individuals whose civil rights have been violated in New York. Our experienced team of civil rights attorneys is dedicated to seeking justice and holding accountable those responsible for infringing upon the rights of others. If you believe your civil rights have been violated, don’t hesitate to contact us for a confidential consultation.

Were Your Civil Rights Violated? Speak to a Civil Rights Attorney Today

If you believe that your civil rights have been violated in New York, it is crucial to speak to a civil rights attorney as soon as possible. Civil rights violations can have serious consequences and it is important to take action to protect your rights and seek justice.

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., our team of experienced civil rights attorneys is dedicated to advocating for individuals who have been victims of discrimination and injustice. We have a proven track record of success in handling civil rights cases and are committed to fighting for the rights of our clients.

Whether you have experienced housing discrimination, violations of prisoners’ rights, or infringements on immigrants’ rights, we are here to help. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong legal strategy to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

Don’t wait to seek justice for violations of your civil rights. Contact Konta Georges & Buza P.C. today for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and learn about your legal options. Our team is here to support you every step of the way and fight for the justice you deserve. Call us today to speak with a dedicated civil rights attorney who will be by your side throughout this difficult process.