Top Rated Family Law Attorneys
Top Rated Texas Civil Rights Attorneys Near You
We Refuse to Settle Out of Fear—Only Justice Will Do We Are A Top Rated Texas Trial Law Firm Too
Why Choose Our Texas Civil Rights Attorneys
We can take your case on a contingency-fee basis: you pay nothing unless our Texas Civil Rights attorneys recover compensation for you. This arrangement aligns our interests with yours, motivating us to pursue every avenue for maximum damages—medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
No Fees Unless We Win
Decades of Proven Success
With decades of proven success in civil and criminal court, our Texas Civil Rights Attorneys have handled hundreds of civil cases. We leverage deep knowledge of Texas Tort Law, the U.S. Constitution, Constitutional Law, Constitutional Criminal Procedure, and Immigration to build persuasive arguments, negotiate effectively, and present compelling evidence before the public and, if need be, a jury. We are one of the only law firms in the world that practices such diverse areas of law in trial. Client-Focused Representation
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At JW Zepeda Law Firm, you’re more than a case number. Our Texas Civil Rights Attorneys and team invest time to understand your unique circumstances, communicating clearly and promptly so you’re never left in the dark. We manage all legal details—medical records, expert reports, settlement negotiations—letting you focus on healing. Bilingual Representation Many firms practice civil rights law, not many firm's founders' have experienced the need for the fight-like our founder has. These fights are personal.
We Actually Care
Multiple State Wide Practice Areas
As a statewide Texas law firm with experience across multiple areas of law.—including criminal defense, personal injury, and immigration—JW Zepeda Law Firm brings a comprehensive legal perspective to every civil rights case. This broad-based knowledge allows us to spot overlapping legal violations, anticipate defense strategies, and build stronger, more strategic cases for our clients.
We Don’t Back Down—We Lead
Civil rights cases are often complex, emotional, and high-stakes. You deserve a legal team that doesn’t just understand the law—but understands you. Our Texas Civil Rights Attorneys combine courtroom grit with compassion. We see the human cost of injustice—and we make it personal.
We Know Your Rights
Civil rights violations are not just wrong—they're illegal. Under the U.S. Constitution, the Texas Constitution, and civil rights laws like 42 U.S.C. §1983, you are protected from discrimination, abuse of power, and unlawful treatment by state actors and institutions.
"If you’ve been marginalized, mistreated, or ignored by the system, we will amplify your voice in the fight for justice, because I have been marginalized before too, and now I have the power to protect us."
-JW Zepeda, President and Founder
Police Misconduct & Excessive Force
When law enforcement crosses the line, accountability isn't optional—it’s essential. At JW Zepeda Law Firm, our Texas civil rights attorney represent victims of police brutality, unlawful shootings, excessive force, racial profiling, and in-custody abuse throughout Texas. Whether you were wrongfully arrested, injured during a traffic stop, or mistreated while in jail, we will investigate every detail, uncover the truth, and fight to hold officers and departments accountable. Backed by courtroom experience and a deep commitment to constitutional justice, we pursue civil claims under 42 U.S.C. §1983 and Texas state law to secure compensation, justice, and reform. No badge is above the law—and we will not rest until justice is served. We confront misconduct head-on, not to tear down law enforcement, but to help the honorable officers within it reclaim integrity and restore public trust. Cleaning house isn’t just necessary—it’s long overdue for their sake and ours.
The founder of this firm's shoulder has been hurt since his excessive force encounter with dishonorable zealous police officers.
Racial Housing Discrimination
Every Texan deserves equal access to safe, fair housing—regardless of race, color, or national origin. Unfortunately, discriminatory practices still persist in rental agreements, mortgage lending, property sales, zoning, and HOA enforcement. At JW Zepeda Law Firm, our Texas civil rights attorneys hold landlords, lenders, developers, and real estate agents accountable for violating the Fair Housing Act and Texas anti-discrimination laws. Whether you’ve faced redlining, racial steering, discriminatory denials, or targeted harassment, we will fight back with evidence, strategy, and unwavering resolve. Housing discrimination isn’t just unfair—it’s illegal. We’re here to make sure it’s exposed, punished, and stopped. The founder of this firm remembers when the attitude of the landlord changed when they found out he was Chicano. We are not Texas civil rights attorneys because it sounded cool in school, we fight because these battles are personal to us too.
Voting Rights Violations
At JW Zepeda Law Firm, our Texas civil rights attorneys are committed to defending the fundamental right to vote. In recent years, Texas has enacted laws like Senate Bill 1, which have been challenged for potentially suppressing voter participation, especially among minority and disabled communities . Our legal team will actively combats practices that infringe upon voting rights, such as discriminatory redistricting, voter intimidation, and unlawful restrictions on mail-in ballots. We strive to ensure that every eligible Texan can exercise their right to vote without undue barriers. If you believe your voting rights have been violated, our attorneys are prepared to advocate for your access to the ballot box and uphold the democratic principles enshrined in the Voting Rights Act.
Racial Discrimination in Business Practices
Economic opportunity should be based on merit—not race. Yet in Texas, racial discrimination continues to affect how individuals and minority-owned businesses are treated in contracting, lending, licensing, franchising, and corporate environments. At JW Zepeda Law Firm, our Texas civil tights attorneys stand up against unfair denial of business loans, exclusion from government contracts, biased treatment by vendors or licensing boards, and systemic barriers to entrepreneurship. Discriminatory business practices not only violate federal and state civil rights laws—they undermine the foundation of fair commerce. We hold institutions accountable, protect your economic rights, and fight for a marketplace where equal opportunity isn’t just a promise—it’s enforced. The founder remembers how a commercial property landlord changed rental terms simply after discovering the founder had a mixed-race family.
Unlawful Surveillance or Violations of Privacy
Unlawful surveillance and privacy violations often intersect with other legal issues, from criminal defense to constitutional law. At JW Zepeda Law Firm, our statewide practice across multiple legal disciplines equips us to confront these complex cases with precision. Whether your private communications were intercepted, your location tracked without consent, or your data mishandled by a government entity, our broad legal experience gives us the tools to pursue justice aggressively. If you’re facing unlawful surveillance or violations of privacy, you need a Texas civil rights attorney who understands the full scope of your rights—and how to defend them.
Racial Discrimination in Business Practices
Economic opportunity should be based on merit—not race. Yet in Texas, racial discrimination continues to affect how individuals and minority-owned businesses are treated in contracting, lending, licensing, franchising, and corporate environments. At JW Zepeda Law Firm, our Texas Civil Rights Attorneys stand up against unfair denial of business loans, exclusion from government contracts, biased treatment by vendors or licensing boards, and systemic barriers to entrepreneurship. Discriminatory business practices not only violate federal and state civil rights laws—they undermine the foundation of fair commerce. We hold institutions accountable, protect your economic rights, and fight for a marketplace where equal opportunity isn’t just a promise—it’s enforced. The founder remembers how a commercial property landlord changed rental terms simply after discovering the founder had a mixed-race family.
Discrimination Based on Race, Disability, or Religion
Discrimination based on race, disability, or religion doesn’t occur in isolation—it often overlaps with many areas of law, housing issues, and public access rights. As a full-service Texas law firm, JW Zepeda Law Firm leverages deep experience across many legal areas to try to pursue every angle of a discrimination case. Our statewide reach and multifaceted legal background allow us to hold both public and private institutions accountable. When your civil rights are violated, you deserve a Texas civil rights attorney who sees the bigger picture—and fights for full justice.
Comprehensive Civil Rights Attorney Services
Our Proven Legal Process
At JW Zepeda Law Firm, we don’t just take cases—we build strategies. Our approach to civil rights litigation is methodical, aggressive, and tailored to each client’s fight for justice. We follow a tested process that has helped us hold powerful institutions accountable and win real results for clients across Texas.
1. Free Case Evaluation
Your story matters. We begin with a confidential consultation where we listen to your experience, assess potential legal claims, and determine if your civil rights have been violated under state or federal law.
2. Thorough Investigation
We move quickly to preserve evidence, obtain records, and identify witnesses. From body cam footage to internal reports, we uncover every detail. Our team works with investigators, experts, and medical professionals to build a solid foundation for your case.
3. Legal Analysis & Case Strategy
Civil rights laws are complex. Our attorneys evaluate your case under statutes like 42 U.S.C. §1983, the Texas Constitution, and Title VII. We craft a customized legal strategy that aligns with your goals—whether that means negotiation or going to trial.
4. Demand for Accountability
We issue formal demands to responsible parties, backed by our evidence and legal arguments. Whether confronting law enforcement agencies, government entities, or corporate defendants, we make it clear that we are not backing down.
5. Filing the Lawsuit
If justice cannot be achieved outside of court, we file suit in state or federal court. Our filings are precise, aggressive, and trial-prepared from day one. We litigate to win—not to settle fast.
6. Trial Preparation
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. That includes depositions, motion practice, witness preparation, and evidence presentation. Many firms hope to avoid court. We train for it. We thrive in it.
7. Resolution or Verdict
Whether through a strategic settlement or courtroom verdict, our goal remains the same: to deliver justice. We aim to secure not just compensation—but change. Many of our civil rights cases have led to policy shifts and disciplinary action beyond the courtroom.
8. Continued Support
Even after your case concludes, we remain available for support, post-trial guidance, and ongoing advocacy. Your fight doesn’t end when the file closes—and neither does our commitment to you.
J. Vaelzquez
I want to share my experience with JW Zepeda Law Firm because they truly made a difference during a very difficult time for me. I was just five days away from a trial, and after speaking with several attorneys, no one was willing to take my case because it seemed too challenging to handle in such a short time. However, JW Zepeda Law Firm not only agreed to help but fully committed themselves and worked tirelessly during those days.
From the very start, the attorney was upfront and honest about what I could expect, and that gave me a lot of confidence. Plus, for the level of professionalism, dedication, and effort they put into my case, I can honestly say their fees are more than fair and very competitive, especially compared to firms that charge significantly more.
Thanks to them, I now feel confident that my case is in the best hands.
If you need an attorney who truly cares about you and will represent you with integrity and expertise, don’t hesitate to reach out to JW Zepeda Law Firm.
Some Unsolicited Reviews
S. Aldrich
JW Zepeda Law Firm is absolutely the best choice you can make for retaining an attorney! I'm a client of his in a very complicated law suit, and he has shown me nothing less than 💯 compassion, patience and complete knowledge of the law and how it works!
Mr Zepeda always makes sure that I'm doing well before we discuss anything else. My personal well being is his first concern and everything else comes after that.
He brings his Christian morals and values into the situation but also brings the determination of a Marine veteran that doesn't know the meaning of quitting, giving up or ever taking anything less than complete justice requires and deserves...
He Will and Does treat every case as it was his own family and fights accordingly.
I rate him and the Law Firm a 5 star rating and Highly recommend him to anyone who needs legal advice or help with the confidence that you will only be extremely pleased and not disappointed at all. If you call or contact him and he's not available at that precise moment, he will without a doubt contact you back as soon as humanly possible. Do to him being such a great attorney he is also very busy.
He very often works on his own personal time which takes away from his family and their time together , but he does what it requires to do the best for the client. Unfortunately there are some people out there that don't acknowledge the fact that attorneys are people who have families and other important things outside of the office, but most people are considerate to the fact and more than not do respect it.
I thank JW and all of the staff at the Law Firm for taking excellent care of me, keeping me updated on everything happening, and fighting hard against any person harming innocent victims to bring them the justice they truly deserve.
I'll never have any other attorney besides the JW Zepeda Law Firm to handle any legal issues I might have in the future!! Great job guys!
S. Aldrich
I was in need of an attorney to help me with some family matters. I called around and when I called Mr. Zepeda.
He listened to me and gave me the best advice in regards to my needs.He listened and asked questions .
He is a very caring and professional man.
I would highly recommend his services.
Thank you Mr.Z for your professional and your Service to our country.
Get to Know Us
A Trial Law Firm: With over 80 years of combined experience, we ensure your case stays with seasoned litigators—not handed off to a novice.
Led by U.S. Marine and accident survivor JW Zepeda, our firm blends firsthand insight into chronic pain with military-honed tenacity.
At your Trial Law Firm, we deliver dedicated, relentless advocacy to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
"With A Servant's Heart, and Warrior's Spirit I Welcome You"
- JW Zepeda, President and Founder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Texas civil rights attorney do?
A Texas civil rights attorney represents individuals whose constitutional or legal rights have been violated by government entities, law enforcement, employers, or institutions. At JW Zepeda Law Firm, we handle cases involving police misconduct, discrimination, wrongful arrest, unlawful surveillance, violations of free speech or privacy rights across the state of Texas, and more.
How do I know if my civil rights were violated?
If you were treated unfairly or harmed by a government official, police officer, employer, or public agency based on your race, religion, gender, disability, political expression, or other protected characteristics, your civil rights may have been violated. Common violations include excessive force, false arrest, racial profiling, and retaliation for protesting or speaking out.
What laws protect my civil rights in Texas?
Civil rights are protected under federal laws like the U.S. Constitution, 42 U.S.C. §1983, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and state laws including the Texas Constitution and Texas Labor Code. Our attorneys are well-versed in both federal and state protections.
What is 42 U.S.C. §1983 and how does it apply to civil rights cases?
42 U.S.C. §1983 is a federal statute that allows individuals to sue government officials—including police officers—for violating their constitutional rights. It’s a powerful tool in cases involving unlawful arrests, excessive force, and due process violations.
Do I need a civil rights lawyer if I was wrongfully arrested or abused by police?
Yes. Police misconduct cases are complex and require experienced civil rights attorneys who understand both criminal and civil law. JW Zepeda Law Firm is trial-ready and equipped to investigate your arrest, gather evidence, and hold law enforcement accountable across Texas.
Can I sue for racial discrimination in Texas?
Yes. Racial discrimination in employment, housing, education, or public accommodations is illegal under both federal and Texas law. If you’ve been treated unfairly because of your race, color, or national origin, our civil rights attorneys can help you pursue justice.
What qualifies as unlawful surveillance or a privacy rights violation?
Unlawful surveillance may include unauthorized recording, tracking your location, intercepting communications, or collecting personal data without consent—especially by government actors. If your privacy has been violated in Texas, you may have a civil rights claim under federal or state law.
How much does it cost to hire a Texas civil rights attorney?
At JW Zepeda Law Firm, we offer free consultations and take many civil rights cases on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay legal fees unless we win. For certain cases, we may also seek attorney’s fees from the opposing party under civil rights statutes.
How long do I have to file a civil rights claim in Texas?
The time limit—or statute of limitations—for civil rights cases varies depending on the nature of the claim and whether it's filed in state or federal court. In many cases, you have two years from the date of the violation. However, some claims require notices of claim to be filed within 180 days. Contact us immediately to preserve your rights.
Do you handle civil rights cases across the entire state of Texas?
Yes. JW Zepeda Law Firm is a Texas-based civil rights law firm with a statewide reach. We represent clients in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Lubbock, Corpus Christi, and beyond. We also maintain city-specific resources and attorneys to better serve some local communities.
What sets JW Zepeda Law Firm apart in civil rights litigation?
We are not a settlement only firm. We are a trial-tested, veteran-led law firm built on service, integrity, and results. Our attorneys understand not just civil rights law—but also criminal defense, immigration, family law, and constitutional litigation. That depth allows us to build stronger, more strategic cases and deliver real accountability.
Can I still file a civil rights claim if I was charged with a crime?
Yes. Even if you were arrested or charged, you may still have a valid civil rights claim—especially if you were subjected to excessive force, unlawful detention, or false charges. We can handle cases involving overlapping criminal and civil rights issues across Texas.
What types of damages can I recover in a civil rights lawsuit?
Depending on the case, you may be entitled to compensatory damages (for pain, suffering, lost wages,
medical bills), punitive damages (to punish egregious misconduct), and injunctive relief (to stop ongoing violations). In successful cases, courts may also award attorney’s fees and policy changes.
How do I get started with a civil rights case in Texas?
Start by contacting JW Zepeda Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the next steps. Civil rights cases are time-sensitive—don’t wait to get the representation you deserve.
