Seeking Compensation For Civil Rights Violations
As a citizen or even a resident of the United States, you have the right to expect certain things from your government and your fellow Americans: Equal treatment under the law; due process when accused of a crime; privacy, autonomy and free speech.
Most of our important civil rights stem from the Constitution, major federal legislation and landmark court rulings (especially from the U.S. Supreme Court). They are the values that we often take for granted — until we are robbed of them. In an increasing number of disturbing incidents, our civil rights are being violated by the very men and women who have sworn an oath to protect and serve: the police.
A Law Firm Standing With You Against Law Enforcement Abuse Of Power
At Cheronis & Parente LLC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients in criminal court and in civil court. As a natural extension of our criminal defense practice, we also help individuals to seek compensation and justice for violations of their civil rights at the hands of law enforcement.
While police abuses happen everywhere, the actions of Chicago police are particularly notorious. We are ready to help you fight back against illegal and unethical behaviors, including:
- Police brutality and use of excessive force
- Wrongful arrest (also called false arrest or false imprisonment)
- Wrongful conviction
- Malicious prosecution
- Racial profiling and discrimination
- Violations of Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable search and seizure
- Violations of Fifth Amendment protections against self-incrimination
- Seeking post-conviction relief for sentences that constitute cruel and unusual punishment
Some of these civil rights violations, such as Fourth and Fifth Amendment protections, will play a critical role in your criminal case. Others will primarily be addressed in a civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages.
Filing A ‘Section 1983’ Lawsuit
One of the most important laws helping us hold police officers accountable is the Civil Rights Act of 1871. Specifically, federal statute 42 U.S.C. § 1983 gives citizens the opportunity to sue the government for civil rights violations. Because of its numbering, filing suit under the law is often referred to as a 1983 claim or a “section 1983.”
When someone acting as a representative of the state misuses his or her authority to deprive someone else of their civil rights, the victim can pursue compensation through a 1983 claim. This statute is often used in cases involving police misconduct like the examples mentioned above.
Speak To An Experienced Attorney About Your Rights And Legal Options
Cheronis & Parente LLC proudly represents clients throughout the Chicago area who have been charged with crimes, suffered as the result of civil rights violations, or both. To learn how our civil rights lawyers can help you, call us at 312-663-4644 or send us an email.
