Michigan Business Law Attorney

Violations of Equal Protection Rights

A clause in the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits discrimination by the state government. It grants all people equal protection regardless of class or creed. A state is charged with applying the law equally to all persons. The Fourteenth Amendment clause is a guarantee provided by our forefathers that all states must treat individuals on the basis that "all men are created equal."

Some of the most famous cases to utilize the equal protection clause had to do with segregation. Segregated school systems, public buildings, and eventually all discrimination on the basis of race were deemed unequal and unconstitutional. It can apply today to any incident where equal protection is not duly applied such as unequal taxes amongst those with equal tax criteria. If you have been treated unequally in the eyes of the law, a Michigan business attorney may be able to assist you in overcoming the discrimination you have experienced.

If a state allows a particular class of persons to engage in a certain activity or privilege and denies others this right or privilege, it may be considered unconstitutional. In order for a classification of the law to qualify as unconstitutional, it must be shown that discrimination was intended. It is a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment for any state to deprive a person of life or liberty without substantive and procedural due process.

Discrimination may be broadly defined as the unlawful and unfair treatment of an individual based on their race, religion, national origin, mental capability, physical capability, or age. In some state constitutions, discrimination may also include sexual preference. If you believe that you are facing employer discrimination, tax discrimination, or any other type of discrimination, it is imperative that you speak with an attorney who is trained in handling violations of equal protection.