Fighting for Justice.
Defending Your Rights.
Experienced NYC civil rights attorneys representing clients in cases of police misconduct, wrongful arrests, ACS removals, and more.
JUSTICE FOR EVERY CLIENT
A Civil Rights Law Firm
Built for Real People.
At Wertheimer Fleder LLP, we represent individuals who have suffered at the hands of the systems meant to protect them. Whether you were wrongfully arrested by NYPD, mistreated in jail, or your family was harmed by ACS or DSS, we’re here to help. With decades of combined experience and a track record of impactful verdicts, our boutique firm provides personalized legal representation grounded in integrity, compassion, and fierce advocacy.
PRACTICE AREAS
Our Areas Of Focus.
Police Misconduct & False Arrests
We represent individuals harmed by unlawful arrests, excessive force, and police abuse.
Civil & Commercial Litigation
We handle complex civil disputes with strategic, experienced litigation counsel.
Jail & Prison Abuse
We advocate for those injured or mistreated in jails, prisons, or while in state custody.
Child Welfare (ACS/DSS)
& Family Separation Lawsuits
We sue ACS and DSS for wrongful removals, false accusations, and family separation.
Wrongful Convictions
& Prosecutorial Misconduct
We fight to overturn wrongful convictions and hold prosecutors accountable for misconduct.
Meet the Team.
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Joel Wertheimer
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Mara Fleder
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Jessica Wang
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“I really enjoyed working with Mara and Joel - they were both incredibly responsive, informative and efficient through every step of the process. This was my first experience needing legal representation and they ensured that I was properly prepared for each phase. Highly recommend Wertheimer Fleder LLP for all your legal needs!”
— Victim of Excessive Force and Mistreatment by NYPD.
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“My experience with Mara Fleder was truly exceptional. She handled my case with the highest level of professionalism, showing empathy and compassion. She is extremely knowledgeable and made my family and me feel at ease. I am grateful for the continuous support I receive from Mara in working toward the best possible outcome for my case.”
— Educator Falsely Accused of Child Maltreatment
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“Being able to work with both Joel and Mara has been a blessing. A time that could have been so stressful, but instead done with ease thanks to their thoughtfulness and excellence in their profession. They will always be the first team I come to.”
— Victim of Excessive Force and Transphobic Treatment by NYPD
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“When I first met Mara and explained my situation concerning ACS keeping my son from me for no reason, I really didn’t know where I was wronged, but I knew that it couldn’t be legal. Mara and Joel were honest with me from the beginning. The months that went along they were always informing me what was happening and I was never left out of anything. This firm is one that is passionate about what they do and they believe in doing the right thing by making the people at fault pay. I will recommend them to anybody that has been wronged by ACS. I thank the team for making sure that my son will be able to look back and see that I fought to the end and the reward was good for us both.”
— Father Who Was Wrongly Separated from His Son
OUR CASE WINS
Real Results. Real Impact.
At Wertheimer Fleder LLP, we fight for meaningful outcomes—not just in principle, but in the real lives of our clients. Our case results reflect the impact of that commitment: life-changing verdicts and settlements for people harmed by injustice. Here are just a few examples of what we’ve achieved.
$2.5M for man wrongfully detained and deported
$2.25M for family of man who died by suicide at Rikers
$1.125M jury verdict after just 2 days of wrongful incarceration
$175K+ for father denied custody after improper ACS intervention
$200K for man assaulted by police while in custody at a precinct
$100K for mother after unlawful child removal and medical procedure
$150K for individual wrongfully charged after police planted evidence
Attorney Advertising: Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have Questions About Your Rights?
Not sure if you can sue ACS or bring a claim against the NYPD? Our FAQ section answers real questions from people like you—so you can make informed decisions.
WHAT SETS US APART
Why Clients Trust
Wertheimer Fleder LLP.
Elite Experience: Our attorneys have clerked for federal judges, worked in the White House, and trained at the nation’s top law schools.
Client-Focused Representation: You’ll work directly with Joel or Mara from start to finish—never passed off to junior staff.
Proven Trial Success: We’ve secured millions in verdicts and settlements through relentless preparation and skilled courtroom advocacy.
Unique ACS Expertise: We’re one of the few firms that consistently win cases against ACS for wrongful child removals and family separation.
Let’s Talk About Your Case.
If your rights were violated, you deserve answers—and experienced legal support. Reach out to us today for a confidential consultation.