• Due Process Matters
• Equal Protection Matters
• Class Action, Discrimination Matters
• Mental Health Advocacy/Baker Act Hearings

The Tate Law Firm possesses deep experience in representing plaintiffs victimized by violations of civil rights.  The experience has involved going nose-to-nose against large, powerful corporations on matters involving race, ethnic, gender and disabilities discrimination.  Derek Brett has represented people both individually and in class actions against large corporations including, but not limited to, Cracker Barrel, Amtrak, Cooker, and Baltimore Gas & Electric.  He has also represented individuals unjustly targeted by government agencies, including the Florida Department of Corrections.

The firm understands the importance of vindicating the civil rights protected by the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution, and by several federal Civil Rights laws.  The firm also understands the difficult situations experienced by those victimized by those perpetrating violations of fundamental rights.  The firm prides itself on its ability to tackle complex issues; wade through the often intricate waters of state and federal courts; and to understand and protect its clients’ interests.

These same ideals are further concentrated in the firm’s nuanced approached to clients confronting the possibility of involuntary mental health commitment.  Derek Brett has studied in detail mental health issues.  He has combined this knowledge with a steadfast approach to his representation of people facing Florida’s Baker Act.  Involuntary commitment comes with far-reaching consequences, as the individual – even if ultimately released from civil custody – is also facing a long-term loss of rights, including the right to vote.  Too often, people similarly situated are deprived of competent and knowledgeable legal counsel.  Derek Brett has dedicated himself to representing those without a voice. Indeed, civil rights issues consistently raise deep and emotional responses requiring representation that successfully blends experience with understanding.