Have your civil rights been violated by law enforcement in Tacoma, Washington? Are you dealing with the aftermath of police misconduct, excessive force, or wrongful arrest? You should know you have legal options. Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you fight for justice.
We have more than 30 years of legal experience and have recovered over $1 billion for injured clients. Our law firm has earned a reputation for standing up to powerful institutions and protecting the rights of individuals across Washington.
Contact our office today for a free consultation with a Tacoma police misconduct lawyer, or call us at (253) 264-0225. We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis; you won’t pay anything unless we win compensation for you.
Why Choose Darrell Cochran to Help With a Civil Rights Violation in Tacoma, WA?
Civil rights abuses by police officers or government agencies in Tacoma, WA, can have devastating consequences. Victims often suffer physical harm and emotional trauma, not to mention a loss of trust in public institutions. These cases require a Tacoma police misconduct attorney with the experience and resources to take on government entities and get justice.
For more than three decades, Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyers has taken on tough cases involving police misconduct, wrongful arrests, and government abuse of power. Our legal team is known throughout Washington for tackling complex claims against public agencies—and winning. We’ve recovered billions in personal injury settlements and verdicts, and our results have been recognized by leading organizations like Martindale-Hubbell and Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Tacoma personal injury lawyer. Let us be your voice as you speak back to power.
Overview of Civil Rights Violations and Government Misconduct
Civil rights are certain rights protected under federal and state laws. They ensure individuals are treated fairly and shielded from abuse, discrimination, and other unlawful acts by individuals in positions of authority.
Some of the most common civil rights violations we see in Washington include:
- Police brutality (excessive force, assaults, or improper use of restraint)
- False arrests or wrongful detention
- Malicious prosecution
- Illegal searches and seizures
- Racial profiling
These unlawful practices can result in significant physical injuries and a loss of trust in public institutions. Fortunately, our legal system allows victims to pursue accountability and compensation when their rights are violated.
Civil Rights Laws and Remedies for Violations
Both federal and Washington State laws provide remedies for individuals harmed by government misconduct:
42 U.S. Code § 1983
This statute, commonly referred to as Section 1983, allows victims to file lawsuits against police officers, government employees, or public agencies that violate their constitutional rights.
18 U.S. Code § 242
This statute makes it a criminal offense for officials to intentionally deprive someone of constitutional protections. While this law doesn’t provide direct compensation to victims, a conviction can support civil claims.
34 U.S. Code § 12601
This law authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to intervene when law enforcement agencies engage in systemic civil rights violations. These claims can result in court-ordered penalties but do not directly compensate individual victims.
Washington State Civil Rights Protections
State law provides additional protections against police misconduct, wrongful arrest, and other civil rights violations. Victims may pursue personal injury claims for damages such as physical harm, emotional suffering, and economic losses.
What Compensation Can You Recover for a Civil Rights Violation in Tacoma?
Victims of civil rights violations are entitled to seek financial compensation for both economic and non-economic losses.
A successful claim might include money for:
- Medical expenses related to physical injuries
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Rehabilitation or counseling costs
- Emotional distress, anxiety, or PTSD
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages, when the misconduct is especially egregious
Some laws even allow for the recovery of attorney’s fees and court costs. We will work to identify every type of compensation you deserve and fight to maximize your recovery.
How Long Do You Have to File a Civil Rights Lawsuit in Washington?
Civil rights cases have distinct time limits. If you fail to file your lawsuit by the relevant deadline, you could jeopardize your ability to seek compensation in court.
The following deadlines may apply to your case:
- Section 1983 claims: These claims must typically be filed within three years of the violation.
- Personal injury claims: Generally, you also have three years to file under state law.
- Claims against government agencies: Washington generally requires that a formal notice of claim be filed with the appropriate government entity at least 60 days before filing a lawsuit.
There may be more than one deadline that applies to your case. That’s why it’s critical to consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve vital evidence.
Contact a Tacoma Police Misconduct Attorney Today for a Free Consultation
If your civil rights have been violated in Tacoma or anywhere in Washington, Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyers is ready to stand up for you. Our legal team has the experience and track record you need to hold government agencies accountable for unlawful conduct.
Don’t let a violation of your rights go unanswered. Contact our Tacoma police misconduct attorney today to schedule a free consultation.