Civil Rights Litigation
Civil Rights Litigation
When your rights are violated, you deserve a voice—and a fighter.
We represent individuals whose constitutional or civil rights have been violated by government actors. These cases often involve high stakes, emotional trauma, and institutional misconduct.
We pursue claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 and related statutes for:
Police brutality and excessive force
Jail/prison medical neglect
Wrongful arrests and malicious prosecution
Due process violations in civil and criminal proceedings
Government retaliation for exercising free speech
Unlawful searches, seizures, or property takings
📧 Contact@sonkeylaw.com
❓ What qualifies as a civil rights violation?
A civil rights violation occurs when a government actor (like police, prison officials, public schools, or government employers) violates your constitutional rights. Common examples include:
Excessive force or police brutality
Unlawful arrest or detention
Retaliation for free speech
Denial of medical care in custody
Discrimination by a public entity
Private disputes (like landlord/tenant issues or private employer discrimination) usually don't qualify unless tied to a state actor.
❓ Do I need proof before I book a consultation?
You don’t need to have all the documents, but you should know:
When the incident happened
Who was involved
What happened
What harm you suffered (physical, emotional, financial)
Any supporting documents—photos, police reports, witness names—can help. We’ll guide you on what else is needed after the consult.
❓ What kind of compensation can I get?
If successful, you may be entitled to:
Compensatory damages (medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress)
Punitive damages (in cases of extreme misconduct)
Attorney’s fees (under federal law)
Injunctive relief (forcing a government body to stop or change behavior)
We evaluate damages during your case review.
❓ Can I sue a police department or jail?
Yes, but usually not directly. We typically sue individual officers or officials in their personal capacity under 42 U.S.C. § 1983. In some cases, we can also sue cities or counties if their policies caused the harm.
❓ What’s the statute of limitations?
Most civil rights claims must be filed within 2 years of the incident, but it depends on the state and type of claim. Delays can affect your case, so don’t wait.
❓ How much does it cost to hire you?
We charge a $200 consultation fee for civil rights matters. If your case is accepted, a minimum $1,500 retainer is required before we begin reviewing any documents or conducting legal research. We typically work on a hybrid fee model, combining this initial retainer with a contingency fee if the case proceeds. In some matters, a higher retainer may be required to cover litigation costs or issues outside the contingency scope.