Hate Crimes

Heller Ehrman achieved a unique settlement in Colon v. Doe, a case brought under California's civil hate crimes statute (Civil Code 51.7). For over seven years, the Defendant had repeatedly harassed his neighbors, the firm's clients, by trespassing and vandalizing their home and property. He slashed the clients' automobile tires, broke bottles in their driveway, and spray painted their truck with racially-offensive and threatening language. Defendant settled the suit by paying $25,000 in damages and agreeing to move to prevent further contact with the family. If he violates a permanent injunction that restrains him from further harassment, the defendant must pay an additional $25,000 in damages.

Firm attorneys in San Francisco have worked closely with community groups to help screen cases and advise clients who have been victimized by hate-motivated acts. Several cases have been successfully prosecuted and settled through this project.