At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how devastating a civil rights violation can be. Whether you’ve been the victim of excessive force, false arrest, or any other type of injustice, we are committed to holding those who violate your rights accountable. With years of legal experience, including working as a former Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel, Attorney Ramy Mikhail Louis offers a unique perspective on civil rights law. His first-hand experience from working on the opposite side of civil rights cases provides invaluable insight into how government agencies and law enforcement operate. We represent individuals whose rights have been violated by law enforcement, government officials, or other entities. We work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served and that you are compensated for the harm you have suffered. Contact a Long Island criminal defense attorney familiar with civil rights violations from our firm today.
Common Civil Rights Violations
False Arrest
A false arrest occurs when law enforcement unlawfully detains or confines an individual. The police generally need “probable cause” to arrest someone, meaning they must have a reasonable belief that the person committed a crime or have an arrest warrant. If the arrest is made without such cause, you may have grounds for a false arrest claim. To establish false arrest, you must prove the following four elements:
- The police intended to confine you.
- You were conscious of the confinement.
- You did not consent to the confinement.
- There was no probable cause or arrest warrant to justify the confinement.
Malicious Prosecution
A malicious prosecution claim arises when you are subjected to unjustified litigation. This often follows a false arrest, especially if charges were brought against you with no probable cause. A malicious prosecution claim requires proof of the following five elements:
- The defendant initiated the prosecution against you.
- The defendant lacked probable cause to pursue the prosecution.
- The defendant acted with malice.
- The prosecution was terminated in your favor (such as through a dismissal or not guilty verdict).
- You were deprived of liberty after arraignment, implicating your Fourth Amendment rights (for federal claims).
Excessive Detention
Excessive detention refers to the unreasonable or prolonged detention of an individual following an arrest or stop. If you have been held in detention beyond a reasonable time or without justification, you may have a civil rights claim for excessive detention.
Unlawful Strip Searches
Unlawful strip searches can be invasive and traumatic, especially when performed without a valid reason or legal justification. Law enforcement is required to follow strict guidelines when conducting searches to ensure they do not violate a person’s rights. If you’ve been subjected to an unlawful strip search, we can help.
Unlawful Search Warrant Affidavits and Executions
In order for law enforcement to conduct a search, they must present a valid warrant supported by probable cause. If a search warrant is obtained based on false information or if the execution of the warrant violates your rights, it may be grounds for a civil rights claim.
Fabrication of Evidence
When law enforcement officers create false information or evidence to mislead prosecutors or influence a jury, they violate your constitutional right to a fair trial. If evidence was fabricated in your criminal court case, we can fight for the justice you deserve.
Excessive Force & Police Brutality
Excessive force occurs when law enforcement officers use more force than is necessary under the circumstances. This may include physical violence, the use of weapons, or other forms of abuse during an arrest or police pursuit. Claims of police brutality may involve violations of both federal and state laws, depending on the circumstances.
Excessive Force claims can be assessed under two standards:
- The 14th Amendment “shock the conscience” standard, which applies in cases where the individual was not detained by the police but harmed during a pursuit.
- The 4th Amendment “objective reasonableness” standard, used when a person is under arrest and no longer free to leave. If the officer’s actions are found to be unreasonable under these standards, they may be liable for excessive force.
Damages Awards
The damages awarded in civil rights cases can vary based on several factors, including:
- The severity of physical and emotional injuries.
- The length of detention or prosecution.
- Loss of reputation and employment.
- Number of prior arrests.
- Out-of-pocket expenses.
- Officer’s intentions and severity of the crime charged.
- Invasions of privacy and other personal impacts.
How a Civil Rights Violation Lawyer Can Help
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we are committed to protecting your civil rights and fighting for justice. With experience as a former Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel, Attorney Ramy Mikhail Louis brings a unique perspective and extensive knowledge of the legal system regarding civil rights protections. We understand the complexities of civil rights law and are here to guide you through the legal process.
If you believe your civil rights have been violated, contact us today for a free case evaluation. Contact us to discuss your case with a dedicated attorney who is committed to fighting for your freedom and rights. Your voice matters, and we’re here to help.
Civil Rights Violations We Handle
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we are experienced in handling the following civil rights violations:
- False Arrest: Detained without probable cause or an arrest warrant.
- Excessive Force & Police Brutality: Use of unnecessary force by law enforcement officers.
- Malicious Prosecution: A criminal case initiated without just cause or malicious intent.
- Unlawful Search & Seizure: Violation of your Fourth Amendment rights by illegal searches.
- Racial Profiling: Unfair targeting based on race or ethnicity.
- Excessive Detention: Unjustified prolonged detention after an arrest.
- Unlawful Strip Searches: Strip searches conducted without proper legal justification.
- Unlawful Search Warrant Affidavits & Executions: Search warrants obtained through false or misleading information.
- Fabrication of Evidence: Creation or manipulation of evidence to influence a case.
- CCRB Complaints: Filing a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) regarding police misconduct or civil rights violations. The CCRB conducts independent investigations and makes recommendations on officer discipline.
Contact a Long Island Civil Rights Violation Lawyer
Whether you’ve been impacted by one of these violations or another civil rights issue, we are here to help you seek justice and hold those responsible accountable. Contact us today.
