Weatherly McConnell’s civil rights litigation practice goes hand in hand with our criminal defense practice and is another way that we fight for people’s rights. Utilizing all of our experience as criminal defense and trial attorneys, we go on offense to vindicate the wrongs perpetrated by the government and its agents. We focus on rooting out police misconduct, jail and prison abuses, and the violation of other civil rights. Rarely does the government acknowledge or accept responsibility for its mistakes, and we are willing to utilize our experience and tenacity to fight as long as it takes to get a just outcome.

At Weatherly McConnell, our civil rights litigation is more than a service; it’s a commitment. We believe every person deserves fair treatment under the law, and when government actors overstep their power, we stand ready to hold them accountable. 

What We Handle And Where We Help

We litigate civil rights cases involving: 

• False Arrest & Malicious Prosecution—when someone is wrongfully detained or charged 
• Excessive Force & Police Misconduct—including K-9 attacks, shootings, improper restraint techniques, and unlawful search and seizure 
• First Amendment Violations—unlawful censorship and retaliation for protected speech 
• Wrongful Convictions—cases where errors and/or misconduct led to convictions that should be overturned 
• Conditions in Jails, Prisons, & Detention Centers—including medical neglect, assault by guards, and the conditions of confinement 

What to Expect: The Legal Process

1. Initial Consultation & Fact Investigation: We’ll listen to your story, review evidence (videos, documents, medical records, witness testimony), and assess the responsible parties.
2. Legal Research & Filing: There are legal standards (constitutional rights, statutory protections) and potential hurdles such as qualified immunity and time limits. We evaluate these carefully before proceeding. 
3. Discovery & Evidence Gathering: Collecting all relevant evidence— body cam footage, police reports, internal agency memos, forensic reports, etc. 
4. Litigation/Negotiation: We may attempt settlement or alternative dispute resolution first. If that fails, we litigate to vindicate your rights. 
5. Remedies & Accountability: Legal outcomes may include monetary damages, injunctions (court orders to change policies or practices), disciplinary actions, or other corrective reforms. 

Why It’s Not Always Easy — Why Experience Matters

• Government Defendants/Immunity: Officers or agencies often have legal protections; overcoming qualified immunity is complex. 
• Complexity: Civil rights claims involve constitutional law and other complex legal frameworks that are challenging to navigate. 
• Evidence Challenges: Key evidence (video, records) can be damaged, lost, or withheld. Timing matters.