Civil Rights Violations Deserve Real Legal Representation
Consultations are free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
This Work Is Personal
Garcia Sheppard is committed to serving communities that have historically been underserved by the legal system and over-targeted by the institutions meant to protect them.
Civil rights cases are some of the hardest fights in law. We take these cases because we have the experience to handle them and the commitment to see them through.
Civil Rights Cases We Handle
We represent individuals whose constitutional or statutory rights have been violated, including:
- Police Brutality and Excessive Force
- Wrongful Arrest and False Imprisonment
- Unlawful Search and Seizure
- Denial of Due Process
- Discrimination by Government Officials
- Jail and Detention Conditions
- First Amendment Violations
Not sure if your situation qualifies?
Call us. These situations are often more legally significant than people realize, and the only way to know is to talk it through with an attorney.
How We Handle Your Case
Free Consultation
You explain what happened, and we listen and give honest feedback about your case.
Case Evaluation
We review evidence, identify the applicable legal claims, and assess the strength of your case. Civil rights cases often involve specific documentation requirements and early deadlines, so timing matters.
Investigation
We gather all relevant records, including incident reports, footage, medical documentation, and witness accounts.
Case Strategy
We identify all liable parties, including individual officers or officials and the institutions behind them, and develop a legal strategy built around your specific facts.
Fighting for You
We negotiate when a fair resolution is possible. When there is not, we take it to court.
Request a Free Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have a civil rights case?
It depends on the facts. Most claims involve a government official violating constitutional or federal rights, though private parties can be liable under certain laws. A free consultation helps clarify your options.
What is qualified immunity, and does it block my case?
It can protect government officials from personal liability but isn’t automatic. Courts look at whether the violated right was clearly established. An attorney can assess how it applies to your case.
How long do I have to file?
Deadlines are often shorter than expected, especially when government entities are involved, and notice requirements apply. Act quickly to protect your rights.
What can I recover in a civil rights case?
Damages in civil rights cases can include compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, lost income, and, in some cases, attorney’s fees. In cases of particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may also be available.