The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects the rights to free speech, to peacefully assemble, and to petition the government for redress of grievances. The First Amendment bars federal, state, and local governments from passing laws that restrict protected speech. It also prohibits the government from retaliating against a person for their constitutionally protected…
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Your Civil Rights When Dealing With Law Enforcement
You are guaranteed certain civil rights when dealing with law enforcement. At Hale & Monico, our Chicago civil rights attorneys aggressively pursue claims involving civil rights violations. Learning about your civil rights when dealing with law enforcement helps you know when officers cross the line. What Are Civil Rights? Civil rights give us freedom and…
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What Rights Do Prisoners Have Against Jail Neglect?
A jail sentence has the potential to result in abuse and neglect. However, few in the mainstream media and political scene are willing to acknowledge that prisoners often suffer brutal experiences after conviction. Prisoners have rights against jail neglect as detailed below by our Chicago civil rights attorneys. Prisoners Have Legally Protected Rights There is…
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Building a Strong Police Brutality Case Through Video and Medical Evidence
As recent headlines prove, many people become victims of police brutality. Those cases can be difficult to prove, but they are winnable by a Chicago civil rights attorney. It’s important to use solid physical evidence to win a case involving police brutality in Illinois. Video of what happened should always be obtained. It’s also crucial…
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How Body Cam Footage Can Affect Police Misconduct Cases
In the heart of Chicago, where struggles against police misconduct are deeply felt, body cam footage has become crucial in ensuring those charged with protecting and serving do not overstep their mandate. If you think you’ve been a victim of police misconduct, bodycam footage may be a critical element in your civil rights case. However,…
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Building an Effective Defense Against False Arrest Charges
If you were the victim of an unlawful arrest, you might be able to use false arrest as a defense in your criminal case. You might also be able to pursue financial compensation for the police misconduct. False arrest cases are challenging, and not to be handled as a DIY project. You will want to…
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Police Misconduct and Personal Injury Claims: Protecting Your Rights
If you suffered an injury because of police brutality or other misconduct, you might be able to go after financial compensation for your injuries and other losses, but you cannot expect that a check will simply show up in the mail. You will have to take action and make a personal injury claim. This blog…
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What Types of Damages are Available in Illinois Civil Rights Lawsuits?
You might wonder whether it is worth it to file a civil rights lawsuit if an employer or someone working for the government violated your civil rights. Will they merely get a reprimand, or will the court make it financially worth your while to hire a lawyer to take action on your behalf? If you…
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Can I Sue DCSF in Illinois?
Yes, you can sue DCFS in Illinois, but it will not be easy. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) can get sued for abuse, gross negligence, or a violation of civil rights. Because these cases are so difficult, you will want to talk to a Chicago civil rights attorney about your case. Proving…
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When Do I Need A Civil Rights Attorney?
If someone violated your civil liberties, a civil rights lawyer could advocate on your behalf. It can be challenging to know if you have a civil rights violation, but a Chicago civil rights attorney can talk to you and determine whether you might qualify to take legal action because of the mistreatment. These cases are…
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