Fighting for Your Civil Rights in Michigan

The right to be free from discrimination and to have your fundamental constitutional rights respected is the bedrock of a just society. When those rights are violated - whether by an employer, a landlord, or the government itself - the experience is not only illegal but deeply personal and damaging. The Law Offices of Mitchell S. Bisson is passionately committed to defending the civil rights of individuals in Grand Rapids and across Michigan. We aggressively pursue justice for victims of discrimination and government overreach, holding powerful entities accountable for their unlawful actions.

Vindicating Your Rights Under State and Federal Law

Our civil rights practice is dedicated to fighting injustice in all its forms. We represent clients in cases involving:

Employment Discrimination

Unlawful treatment based on race, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other protected classes.

Housing Discrimination

Being denied the opportunity to rent or buy a home because of your protected status under state and federal fair housing laws.

Police Misconduct & Excessive Force

Holding law enforcement accountable for brutality, false arrest, illegal searches, and other constitutional violations under 42 U.S.C. § 1983.

Violations of Constitutional Rights

Protecting freedoms of speech, due process, and equal protection under the law for all citizens.

Disability Discrimination

Ensuring individuals with disabilities receive the reasonable accommodations they are entitled to in employment and public life under the PWDCRA and ADA.

Sexual Harassment

Fighting for individuals who have been subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or a hostile work environment.

Your Protections Under Michigan Law

Michigan has strong laws designed to protect the civil rights of its citizens. Understanding these laws is the first step in defending your rights.

The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA)

First passed in 1976, ELCRA is Michigan's primary anti-discrimination law. It prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations based on religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status, or marital status. In a historic 2023 amendment, ELCRA's protections were officially and explicitly expanded to include sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, codifying critical rights for LGBTQ+ Michiganders.

The Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act

This 1976 act specifically defines and protects the civil rights of people with disabilities in Michigan. It guarantees the right to employment, housing, and access to public services and accommodations without discrimination. A key component of the PWDCRA is the requirement for employers and public entities to provide "reasonable accommodations" for qualified individuals with disabilities, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the organization.

Section 1983 Lawsuits

In addition to state laws, a powerful federal law known as 42 U.S.C. § 1983 allows individuals to file a lawsuit in federal court against state or local government officials (such as police officers or municipalities) who have violated their rights under the U.S. Constitution. This is a primary legal tool for litigating cases of police misconduct, excessive force, and wrongful arrest.

Email or Call Now for a Free Case Consultation!

Las Vegas: (702) 602-4990
Grand Rapids: (616) 213-3327

MBisson@BissonLegal.com

Should I talk to the police if I'm arrested in Grand Rapids?

No! You have a constitutional right to remain silent. Politely state that you are exercising this right and that you wish to speak with an attorney immediately. Anything you say can and will be used against you by the prosecution.
What's the difference between OWI and OWVI in Michigan?

OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) means driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or that alcohol/drugs substantially affected your ability to drive. OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired) is a lesser charge, meaning your ability to drive was visibly impaired by alcohol or drugs, even if your BAC was below 0.08%.
Can a domestic violence charge be dropped if the accuser recants?

Not necessarily. In Michigan, the prosecutor's office, not the alleged victim, decides whether to press charges. The prosecutor can compel the accuser to testify and may proceed with the case if they believe there is enough other evidence to secure a conviction, even if the accuser wishes to drop it.
How long does a criminal case take in Kent County?

The timeline varies greatly. A simple misdemeanor might be resolved in a few months, while a complex felony case set for trial could take a year or longer. The duration depends on the complexity of the evidence, the court's schedule, and the number of legal motions filed by the defense and prosecution.
Can the police search my car during a traffic stop?

Police can only search your vehicle if they have a warrant, your consent, or probable cause to believe there is evidence of a crime inside.16 You have the right to refuse consent to a search. If police ask for permission, it often means they do not have probable cause to search without it.