Using Decades of Experience To Protect Your Interests

Governments are supposed to protect us, uphold our rights, and ensure our safety. Far too often, however, government actors instead inflict tremendous harm on the very people they are meant to serve. The damage from civil rights violations, such as police brutality, can be profound. Federal law provides an avenue to hold governments accountable through civil rights claims.

At Goethals & Stone, PC, our mission is to fiercely advocate for victims of injustice throughout the Bay Area. Our civil rights lawyers are both former mayors with decades of legal experience. Their firsthand experience in government equips them with an in-depth understanding of how to pursue accountability. They understand the inner workings of government and know how to build compelling civil rights cases. Their goal is to not only secure compensation but also pursue meaningful change and reform within the systems that have failed to protect our clients.

Understanding Civil Rights Claims

Federal law establishes civil rights claims to maintain the balance of justice and accountability when government officials overstep their bounds. Also called Section 1983 claims about the federal statute, these claims are well worth considering in situations such as:

1. Law enforcement misconduct, abuse, and excessive force
2. Violations of prisoner rights, including inhumane and unlawful treatment
3. Restrictions on free speech are imposed in government workplaces or public schools
4. Due process and equal protection violations
5. Malicious prosecution, false arrest, and false imprisonment

In California, the statute of limitations (deadline) for filing a Section 1983 civil rights claim is generally two years after the incident. Don’t wait to explore taking legal action.

Let Us Help You Reclaim Your Power & Stand Up For Your Rights

Civil rights violations can leave you feeling helpless and disempowered. We are passionate advocates for justice and can stand by you through what may be one of the darkest chapters of your life. Our civil rights attorneys will listen to your story, evaluate your options, and help you put this chapter behind you by empowering legal action.