Civil Rights Lawyers

What Are Civil Rights Violations?

A civil rights violation occurs when a government actor, institution, or entity acting under color of law deprives a person of their constitutionally guaranteed rights. Civil rights violations can involve police officers, corrections officers, government agencies, public schools, and other entities that exercise governmental authority.

Unlike purely private disputes, civil rights cases invoke federal constitutional protections and powerful federal statutes, giving victims tools that are not available in ordinary personal injury or employment cases.

Federal Laws Protecting Civil Rights

Several powerful federal statutes provide the basis for civil rights lawsuits in Georgia:

• 42 U.S.C. § 1983 allows individuals to sue government officials and agencies who violated their constitutional rights under color of state law
• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin by any entity receiving federal financial assistance
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires government entities and programs to be accessible to people with disabilities
• The Fourteenth Amendment guarantees equal protection and due process to all persons

Types of Civil Rights Cases Handled by Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C.

Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. handles civil rights cases involving a wide range of institutional conduct, including the following:

• Police misconduct and excessive use of force
• Wrongful arrest and false imprisonment
• Unlawful search and seizure
• Discrimination by government agencies or public institutions
• Systemic or institutional discrimination in schools, housing, or healthcare
• Abuse of authority by corrections officers or prison officials
• Denial of due process or equal protection by government entities

How Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. Takes On Powerful Institutions

Government entities and institutions have legal teams, deep resources, and significant experience defending civil rights claims. Winning these cases requires attorneys who are not intimidated by that power and who know the legal terrain thoroughly.

At Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C., we approach civil rights cases with the same strategic intensity we bring to every case: thorough investigation, command of relevant constitutional law, skilled litigation, and the willingness to take a case to trial when necessary. We will not let institutions hide behind bureaucracy or procedural complexity.

What Remedies Are Available in Civil Rights Cases?

Remedies in civil rights cases can include both compensation for the individual and systemic relief:

• Compensatory damages for physical injuries, emotional distress, and economic losses
• Punitive damages against individual officers or officials who acted with malicious intent
• Attorney’s fees and litigation costs under federal fee-shifting statutes
• Injunctive relief court orders requiring the institution to change its practices
• Declaratory relief a court declaration that the institution’s conduct was unconstitutional

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “under color of law” mean? “Under color of law” means acting in an official governmental capacity or using authority granted by the government. A police officer who violates your rights while on duty acts under color of law, even if that conduct is also illegal.

Can I sue a city or county government for civil rights violations? Yes. Under Section 1983, local governments can be sued when a violation results from an official policy or custom. Individual officers can also be sued personally in many circumstances.

What is qualified immunity and how does it affect my case? Qualified immunity is a legal doctrine that protects government officials from civil rights lawsuits unless the violated right was “clearly established” at the time of the conduct. The attorneys at Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. have experience arguing against qualified immunity defenses and identifying the legal theories that overcome them.

Are there special deadlines for civil rights lawsuits? Yes. Section 1983 claims in Georgia typically follow the two-year personal injury statute of limitations. However, if the defendant is a government entity, there may be shorter notice requirements. Contact Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. promptly to preserve your rights.

Can I file a civil rights case if I was also criminally charged? A civil rights lawsuit is separate from any criminal proceeding. You can pursue a civil claim even if criminal charges were filed against you, or if no criminal charges were ever brought against the officer. The outcomes are independent of each other.

Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today

Constitutional rights are not suggestions — they are guarantees. When they are violated, Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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