Martha Smeltzer West, Civil Rights Attorney in Davis, California

Martha concentrates on civil rights, discrimination, employment, general, and government. Each area below outlines the kind of case Martha handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Civil Rights

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• Discrimination

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• Employment

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• General

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• Government

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• Wrongful Termination

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Martha's primary office is at 2407 Rivendell Ln, Davis, CA, 95616-3058. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new civil rights attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Martha usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Martha discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in civil rights practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Martha for a civil rights case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Martha walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Martha offer a free consultation?

  Martha charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Martha's office. Some civil rights attorneys offer free consults — check Martha's current terms during booking.

• How long do civil rights cases in California typically take?

  Simple civil rights matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Martha gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Martha take my case if I'm outside Davis?

  Martha is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Martha will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Martha?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Martha will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Martha accepting new civil rights clients right now?

  Martha's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.