In New York, a group of transgender people have been awarded legal fees during a lawsuit against the city despite the Department of Health changing the policies currently in place in regards to sex designations that are placed on birth certificates.
In the lawsuit, it was alleged that the Health Department demanded proof of sex assignment surgery before issuing a new birth certificate to applicants who identify as transgender. The claimed incident took place in 2009 and members allege the actions were directly discriminatory toward transgendered people. Five years later in 2014, the city updated the requirement that had been set in 1971 in a largely successful move to quiet the claim.
However, the plaintiffs asked for legal fees for the lawsuit. The judge agreed after finding the suit as a “catalyst” for change in the policy that the Health Department put in place. Justice Joan Madden is ordering a hearing to determine what amount will be awarded to the plaintiffs. The lawsuit is asking for $250,000 in legal fees.
If you or someone you love has been discriminated against due to their sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, pregnancy, or any other protected class or category, our Philadelphia civil rights lawyers can help. At Sidney L. Gold & Associates, we believe no one should have to face discrimination or have their rights violated. Call us today at 215-569-1999 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
