The police have an obligation to protect and serve citizens. Holding the police to this obligation is important, given the extensive rights and powers granted to law enforcement. When these powers are abused, victims should work with an attorney to hold the wrongdoers accountable.
If you believe your civil rights have been violated, consult legal counsel on your options, such as filing formal complaints, seeking administrative relief, or filing a lawsuit. A New Britain civil rights lawyer at Ruane Attorneys could help you pursue legal action and recover the compensation you deserve.
Police Violations of Civil Rights
When interacting with the public, the police can abuse or exceed their power in various ways. Often, these violations involve the unreasonable use of physical force or even outright violence. Violations can also impact a person’s constitutional rights or right to privacy. A New Britain civil rights attorney could work to hold law enforcement accountable for any of these abuses.
Excessive Force
Many allegations of civil rights violations involve the unreasonable use of force. Police are empowered to use force when necessary to arrest suspects or protect themselves from harm. However, this use of force must be proportional and reasonable. Unreasonable use of force, like fatally shooting an individual who posed no threat to the officer, is a civil rights violation.
Constitutional Rights Violations
Some civil rights violations have nothing to do with physical violence. Individuals enjoy several rights under the U.S. Constitution, and the police often violate rights related to criminal procedure. This includes unlawful searches or seizures during the course of a police investigation. If law enforcement seizes property, makes an arrest, or searches property unlawfully, it could qualify as a civil rights violation.
What Can a Civil Rights Attorney Do?
There are many ways a New Britain civil rights attorney could help remedy these abuses. While it is impossible to reverse the damage done by the violation, these remedies could prevent future abuse while providing a measure of justice to the victim.
In many cases, the first step is to pursue a formal complaint with the government. This complaint might start with the agency responsible for the civil rights violation, but it could also be escalated to the federal government. In addition to administrative complaints, a civil lawsuit could also be a viable option. An attorney could assist with pursuing legal action based on the violation of a person’s civil rights.
Compensation for Rights Violations
The compensation resulting from a civil rights lawsuit could cover a wide range of losses. When injuries are involved, a successful lawsuit could compensate for medical bills or pain and suffering. It could also cover mental anguish, emotional trauma, and other losses related to the violation of civil rights. A New Britain lawyer at our firm could further discuss the damages available in a civil rights violation case.
Call a New Britain Civil Rights Attorney Today
If you believe your rights have been violated, you have the right to seek out legal counsel. The right attorney could help you hold law enforcement accountable for its abuse of power.
Let a New Britain civil rights lawyer help you make things right. Reach out to Ruane Attorneys as soon as possible for a confidential consultation.