Civil rights are an expansive and significant set of rights that are designed to protect individuals from unfair treatment. They are the rights of individuals to receive equal treatment in a number of settings, including education, employment, housing, public accommodations, and are based on certain legally-protected characteristics. Most laws guaranteeing and regulating civil rights originate at the federal level, through federal legislation such as the following laws:

Age Discrimination Act of 1975

Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Civil Rights Act of 1964

Fair Housing Act (FHA)

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Civil rights also come from federal court decisions. States that pass them through the state constitution and other laws can be more protective of civil rights than their federal equivalents. Municipalities like cities and counties can also enact ordinances and laws related to civil rights.

Changes may occur in this area of law. The information provided is brought to you as a public service, and is intended to help you better understand the law in general. It is not intended to be legal advice regarding your particular problem or substitute for the advice of a lawyer.

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