Setting a New Standard for Civil Rights

In an ongoing fight for equality in the justice system, Fred Lichtmacher has made an impact. Largely due to his tenacious legal strides, victims of sexual harassment in New York City can now win their case by proving the totality of the circumstances they were harassed or discriminated against on account of their gender or race. With optimized opportunities for justice, these victims no longer need to rely on the difficult-to-meet severe and pervasive standard to prevail as required by Federal Law. This development has made it significantly more possible for victims of such offenses to obtain their much-deserved validation and compensation.

After the murder of Shirley Fontañez, a woman killed by her NYPD officer ex-boyfriend, Lichtmacher tirelessly defended her young, orphaned daughter from the trial court to the Appellate court and back again. His victory in this case clarified that law enforcement has an obligation to investigate violence against domestic partners of the police department.
If law enforcement fails to do so, it can be held liable. This is a groundbreaking step in holding accountable abuses of power by the very institutions that are supposed to protect citizens and fight crime.

Evidenced by his ability to advance laws in the name of civil rights, Fred Lichtmacher’s persistence has been instrumental in proliferating justice for the defenseless.