There’s truly no doubt that the freedoms granted to you should never be violated. Sadly, big companies and corporations, even government offices and officials abuse their power and make them think that they’re immune to the law.
If you find that your civil rights were violated, you must speak to an attorney at law to ensure that you’re taking the proper steps to help you seek justice and compensation. However, a common concern for most people is knowing when they can sue for civil rights violations, and perhaps you’re here because you’re wondering the same thing.
What is a Civil Rights Violation?
In the most basic sense, civil rights violation is when you’re treated unfairly and the government violates your rights. Sadly, these instances occur all the time, especially in the small towns where there’s either a small police force or few law enforcement officials left to uphold their rights.
However, as a victim of civil rights violations, you have the absolute right to seek legal counsel and get an attorney to help you obtain the compensation you need and deserve for the pain, suffering, and injuries you endured.
With that said, you should know that your civil rights include the following:
- Freedom of speech, religion, and assembly;
- Right to petition the government;
- Right to procedural due process;
- Freedom from discrimination for protected classes;
What are the Different Examples of Civil Rights Violation?
There are many different kinds of civil rights violations, and they occur all the time, especially in police brutality cases. However, you must know that your civil rights can also be violated by a private company, the local government, or even a teacher or school counselor.
- Discrimination in the Workplace: Discriminating when it comes to employment and job applications is totally illegal and considered a civil rights violation. If you were denied a job or promotion because of your race, religion, gender, or ethnicity, you have the right to sue the employer.
- Using Excessive Force: While most people assume that police officers have the right to use some force in order to apprehend a suspect, excessive force must be reasonable. Using force that’s excessive or unreasonable is a civil rights violation.
- Sexual Assault: You have a civil rights violation to protect you from sexual assault by non-government employees. This includes sexual assault by teachers, school officials, and employers.
- Unreasonable Searches and Seizures: The Constitution grants you the right to be “secure in your persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures.” If you’re a victim of a government search or seizure that was unreasonable, it’s a civil rights violation.
If a police officer entered your home or business, or even your possessions like your purse or vehicle, without your permission or a search warrant, it’s considered a civil rights violation.
The Bottom Line: If You Think Your Civil Rights Have Been Violated, It’s Best to Speak to an Attorney at Law
Sometimes, violations are avoidable, but other times, they are unavoidable. What matters most is that you’re taking the proper steps to seek justice and to protect your rights. Of course, you can always speak to an attorney at law about your civil rights case.
An experienced attorney can help you with the legal process, whether you’re filing a lawsuit or you want to pursue a claim. Plus, you may be able to receive compensation for the pain and injuries that you endured, including any medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses that you may have incurred throughout this process.
How Can We Help You?
If you’re looking for an attorney at law in Birmingham, AL, who can assist with alternative dispute resolutions, you’ve come to the right place.
The lawyers of McCallum, Hoaglund & McCallum, LLP have a combined 75 years of experience in law practice. Our expert team passionately seeks justice for our clients and provides legal services, ranging from complex business litigations to construction law, medical malpractice defense to employment litigation, and more.
Learn more about our services today!