Enforcing the Rights California Law Protects
We pursue civil rights claims arising from discrimination in public accommodations, housing, business, and government conduct, including cases under the Unruh Civil Rights Act and federal civil rights statutes.
Trujillo & Winnick LLP represents Californians whose civil rights were violated in business establishments, housing, or by government actors. Core claims arise under the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Civil Code § 51), the Bane Act (Civil Code § 52.1), the Ralph Act (Civil Code § 51.7), and 42 U.S.C. § 1983 for constitutional violations by public officials.
Trujillo & Winnick LLP represents individuals whose civil rights have been violated under California and federal law. Civil rights claims arise in a wide range of settings — clubs and organizations, housing, public accommodations, business dealings, and encounters with government agencies.
Areas of Practice
Public Accommodations & Private Clubs
California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act (Civil Code § 51) prohibits discrimination by business establishments on the basis of protected characteristics and extends to qualifying private clubs. Where a club exercises discriminatory membership or service practices, Unruh Act claims may arise. Successful Unruh claims can recover actual damages plus statutory minimum damages.
Housing Discrimination
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the federal Fair Housing Act prohibit discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing. We evaluate claims arising from discriminatory refusals to rent or sell, differential terms, and discriminatory advertising.
Race, National Origin & Ethnicity
Claims involving adverse treatment based on race, ethnicity, national origin, or ancestry in public, commercial, or organizational settings may proceed under the Unruh Act and, where coercion or threats of violence are involved, the Ralph Act (Civil Code § 51.7) and Bane Act (Civil Code § 52.1).
Retaliation for Protected Complaints
When an individual makes a complaint of discrimination or exercises civil rights protected by law, retaliation for that protected activity can itself give rise to a claim.
Government Actor Claims
Claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 address constitutional and civil rights violations by government actors, including municipalities, law enforcement, and public agencies acting under color of law. Section 1983 claims are litigated in federal court and can recover damages and attorney’s fees.
Litigation Approach
Civil rights litigation often involves contested facts, institutional defendants, and significant public interest. We assess each matter on its facts, evidence, and the applicable statute before filing.
Each civil rights matter is evaluated on its own facts. Allegations in a complaint are not proof, and outcomes depend on the specific evidence and law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Unruh Civil Rights Act?
The Unruh Civil Rights Act (California Civil Code § 51) prohibits discrimination by business establishments based on race, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, medical condition, marital status, or sexual orientation. Qualifying private clubs may be covered.
What is the difference between the Bane Act and the Ralph Act?
The Bane Act (Civil Code § 52.1) addresses interference with rights through threats, intimidation, or coercion. The Ralph Act (Civil Code § 51.7) addresses violence or threats of violence based on protected characteristics. Both allow civil damages.
Can I sue a government agency for a civil rights violation?
Yes. Claims against government actors who violate constitutional or civil rights under color of law may proceed under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 in federal court. These claims can recover damages and, in many cases, attorney's fees.
What types of civil rights claims do you evaluate?
We evaluate discrimination in public accommodations, private clubs, housing, and business dealings, plus retaliation and Section 1983 claims involving government actors. Each matter is assessed on its facts and the applicable statute.