Content Last Updated: May 29, 2026
Civil rights are the basic freedoms and protections every person has under the law, regardless of race, gender, religion, or background. They ensure equal treatment and guard against discrimination.
Civil rights play a key role in guiding how law enforcement engages with the public, especially in high-pressure situations. They establish boundaries meant to prevent abuse and protect individual safety. When law enforcement violates those boundaries through misconduct or excessive force, the impact can be serious and long-lasting, making legal help from an experienced civil rights lawyer an important step in addressing the violation and protecting your rights.
Connect With Our Experienced Attorneys
Police Brutality Center is proud to partner with Alex Straus, Chair of the Civil Rights Department at Milberg PLLC, and Solomon Radner at Radner Law Group to help victims of civil rights abuses.
Overview of Civil Rights
In America, the Constitution guarantees certain civil rights, which have evolved through amendments and federal laws that expand equality and prevent discrimination. Over time, courts have determined that these protections apply to all people within the United States.
In the context of policing, these rights define limits of law enforcement authority and protect individuals from abuse, excessive force, and unlawful treatment. Some key protections include:
- First Amendment: Protects freedom of speech and the right to record or express yourself during police encounters.
- Fourth Amendment: Protects against unreasonable searches, seizures, and excessive force during police encounters.
- Eighth Amendment: Bars cruel and unusual punishment, particularly in jail or prison settings.
- Fourteenth Amendment: Guarantees equal protection and due process during arrest and detention.
- Section 1983 Claims: Allow individuals to bring civil rights lawsuits against officers or agencies for misconduct or constitutional violations.
What Is a Civil Rights Violation?
During police encounters, a civil rights violation happens when officers act outside the limits of federal law while interacting with an individual. Common examples include the following:
- Use of excessive force beyond what a reasonable officer would do
- Searches or seizures conducted without legal authority
- False arrest or detention without legal justification
- Denial of medical care or basic safety while in custody
- Discriminatory treatment based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics
Civil Rights vs. Human Rights: What’s the Difference?
Civil rights are legal protections granted by a specific country, such as the United States, and are enforced via its laws and the Constitution. Human rights are broader and apply to all people everywhere, regardless of government or location. Civil rights focus on how individuals are treated within a legal system, while human rights reflect basic freedoms and dignity inherent to all people. However, both are related in that the U.S. Constitution aims to protect certain inalienable human rights.
In practice, human rights are protected and enforced by civil rights laws and the Constitution. For example, freedom of speech, the right to due process, and protection from discrimination are human rights that are also protected as civil rights in the United States.
What Should I Do if I Think My Civil Rights Have Been Violated?
Seek Out a Civil Rights Lawyer
A civil rights lawyer can determine whether your rights have been violated during a police encounter and advise you on the steps you can take next. They know how these laws apply in real situations and can guide you through the process from the start, including taking legal action if needed.
A civil rights lawyer can help by:
- Reviewing what happened to identify possible rights violations
- Investigating and collecting evidence like video, records, and witness statements
- Filing a civil lawsuit against police departments and law enforcement officers when appropriate
- Handling settlement discussions or representing you through trial if needed
- Pursuing accountability and legal remedies for misconduct
File a Civil Rights Complaint
Filing a civil rights complaint is one way to formally document and report alleged police misconduct or violations of your constitutional rights. Certain agencies investigate claims involving law enforcement and other government actors.
You may be able to submit a complaint to the following:
- Department of Justice Civil Rights Division
- Department of Homeland Security’s Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
- Your local FBI field office
- Your state Attorney General’s office
- Local city or police oversight departments
How Police Brutality Center Can Help You
Everyone has civil rights that must be respected, even during encounters with police. If you believe your rights have been violated, you may have legal pathways to hold those responsible accountable.
Police Brutality Center connects individuals affected by police brutality and misconduct with experienced civil rights lawyers who understand these cases. These lawyers can guide you through your options and help you pursue both accountability and compensation.
Contact Police Brutality Center today for a free consultation.