When the people in charge cross the line
Everyone has the right to live free from discrimination. If you've been denied services, mistreated by law enforcement or had your fundamental rights violated, we're here to help. We work to hold institutions accountable and fight for the justice you deserve.
What this can look like
- Police used excessive force, arrested you without cause or searched you illegally
- You were mistreated in a jail, prison or detention facility
- A business, restaurant, gym or store refused you service because of who you are
- A school or public agency treated you differently because of a protected trait
- You were punished by a government employer or agency for speaking out
The law on your side
Civil rights cases hold the government and the businesses that serve the public to the rules that protect everyone.
- 42 U.S.C. § 1983
- The federal law that lets people sue state and local officials, including police officers, who violate their constitutional rights.
- Pennsylvania Human Relations Act
- State law that bars discrimination by places that serve the public, such as stores, restaurants, hotels and gyms.
- Federal civil rights statutes
- Laws such as Title VI and Title IX cover programs that receive federal money, including schools.
Mind the clock
Federal civil rights claims in Pennsylvania generally must be filed within two years. Some claims against local governments require written notice within six months, and discrimination complaints to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission are generally due within 180 days.
These are general time limits, not legal advice. The deadline that applies to you depends on your facts.
What to gather
You don't need all of this to reach out. Bring what you have.
- Any police report, citation, booking paperwork or court documents
- Photos of injuries and medical records
- Video from phones, doorbells or nearby businesses, saved right away
- Names, badge numbers and descriptions of the officers or staff involved
- Names and contact details of witnesses
Common questions
Can I really sue a police officer?
Yes. Federal law allows it when an officer violates your constitutional rights. These cases have special rules and defenses, which is why experience in court matters.
I still have criminal charges pending. Should I wait?
Talk with us now. What you say and do in the criminal case can affect a civil rights claim, and some deadlines keep running.
Talk with Sophia about what happened
Tell us a little about your situation. We'll contact you to talk it through.