The law surrounding constitutional claims is neither simple nor easy. We understand that and understand our clients deserve the highest quality counsel to guide them in this complex area. Our Constitutional Law and Civil Rights Section regularly works with governmental entities (state, county, municipal) in a wide range of constitutional and civil rights matters, including those involving police misconduct, election law, inmate claims, school discipline, prosecutorial misconduct, racial discrimination, sexual abuse and violations of the First Amendment (freedom of speech), Fourth Amendment (unreasonable searches/seizures and use of excessive force), Eighth Amendment (cruel and unusual punishment) and Fourteenth Amendment (due process and equal protection). We have defended both individual actions and class actions alleging civil rights violations under federal constitutional law (under 42 U.S.C. § 1983) as well as other federal and state laws.

We advise and consult with public entities on how to proactively manage risk regarding civil rights liabilities, as well as conduct sensitive internal investigations once a potential civil rights violation has been identified. Oftentimes, we are able to pre-emptively and cost-effectively resolve civil rights disputes before formal complaints are filed in federal or state court.