Nashville Civil Rights Attorney

Experienced Civil Rights Lawyer Advocating for Clients In Nashville, TN

The United States Constitution provides people with a number of civil rights that apply when they interact with police officers or law enforcement officials. Unfortunately, these rights are sometimes violated, and these violations can cause significant harm to people who have been arrested, those who are held in detention or sentenced to prison, and others who are involved in criminal cases. At The Baker Law Firm, we are committed to defending the civil rights of clients in Nashville, and we work to pursue justice for those who have been wronged.

Police Misconduct

Law enforcement officers may take a number of actions that violate people's rights. They may do so when investigating crimes, performing arrests, holding people in detention, or in other situations.

Police brutality is an issue that commonly affects suspects and people who have been detained or arrested. Officers may use excessive force during an arrest or while a person is in their custody. They may inflict serious injuries, use weapons inappropriately, or engage in other forms of misconduct that can cause people to suffer severe injuries, emotional trauma, and, in some cases, permanent disability. In these situations, victims of police brutality may take steps to recover financial compensation for their injuries and other forms of harm they have suffered.

In some cases, misconduct may result in the death of a person while in police custody. These situations can raise serious questions about the actions of law enforcement officers and the conditions of detention facilities. In-custody deaths may result from excessive force, neglect, or failure to address safety concerns. These incidents can be devastating for the families of people who are killed, and law enforcement agencies may be held responsible for allowing deaths to occur.

Failure to Provide Adequate Medical Care

People who are incarcerated or detained by police have the right to receive the proper medical care to address injuries, chronic health issues, and other issues that may affect their well-being. When law enforcement or prison officials fail to provide necessary medical treatment, people may experience severe health complications, unnecessary suffering, and even death. Delayed medical attention, refusal to administer medication, inadequate medical facilities, and neglect of chronic conditions may need to be addressed, and people who have suffered harm due to these issues may be able to recover compensation for their injuries and damages.

Options for Addressing Civil Rights Violations

If you believe your civil rights or the rights of a loved one have been violated, The Baker Law Firm can help you understand your legal options. We will work with you to seek justice and hold the responsible parties accountable.

One of the initial steps to follow in these situations is to file a formal complaint or report with the relevant authorities. This may involve lodging complaints with police departments, local authorities, or oversight bodies such as civilian review boards. While this step does not guarantee immediate action, it can create an official record of the misconduct. Civil rights violations can also be reported to federal and state agencies, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). These agencies have the authority to investigate allegations of misconduct and take appropriate action against offending officers or institutions.

The next step in seeking justice for civil rights violations will typically involve filing a civil lawsuit. This can help you recover monetary compensation and hold the offending parties accountable for their violations of the law. You may be entitled to several different forms of relief, which may include:

• Compensatory damages: These damages will address the actual losses you have suffered due to the violation of your rights. You may be compensated for medical expenses, lost income, and other costs directly related to the misconduct.
• Non-economic damages: You may also be compensated for intangible losses such as pain and suffering and emotional distress. These damages recognize the profound impact that civil rights violations can have on your well-being.
• Injunctive relief: A court may require the offending officers or agencies to take or refrain from certain actions. This can include mandates to implement policy changes, provide training to law enforcement officers, or improve conditions in detention facilities.
• Declaratory relief: The court may issue a declaration stating that the actions of the offending party were unconstitutional or unlawful. This type of relief can help establish a legal precedent, providing a basis for future claims and reforms.
• Punitive damages: In cases of extreme misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and prevent others from engaging in similar behavior in the future.

Contact Our Nashville Civil Rights Attorney

At The Baker Law Firm, we are committed to defending your rights, and we can help you take steps to hold police officers or other officials accountable for civil rights violations. Contact us at 865-200-4117 to arrange a free consultation.