Civil Rights Attorney Serving Camden County, New Jersey
Civil Rights Attorney Serving Camden County, New Jersey
Legal Guidance When Constitutional Rights Are Violated by Public Officials or Institutions
The law protects individuals from being mistreated by those in power. When government actors—such as police officers, school administrators, corrections officials, or other public employees—violate those protections, civil rights laws provide a path for accountability.
At the Law Office of Terrell A. Ratliff, we assist clients in Camden County who believe their constitutional rights were violated by a public official or agency. These cases are serious, complex, and often emotionally charged. We approach them with care, clarity, and a commitment to helping clients understand their options under both state and federal law.
Whether your case involves unlawful arrest, excessive force, denial of due process, or a First Amendment violation, we are available to assess the situation and explain the possible next steps.
What Is a Civil Rights Case?
Civil rights law generally refers to legal protections provided by the U.S. Constitution, New Jersey Constitution, and related federal statutes—particularly Section 1983 of Title 42 of the U.S. Code. These laws prohibit government agencies and public employees from violating a person’s constitutional rights under the color of law.
A civil rights case may arise when a public official or institution:
- Uses excessive force during an arrest or detention
- Conducts an unlawful search or seizure
- Arrests or detains someone without probable cause
- Discriminates based on race, religion, gender, or disability
- Retaliates against someone for exercising free speech or reporting misconduct
- Fails to provide medical care while someone is in custody
- Denies procedural due process, especially in public education or employment settings
These cases are often filed under Section 1983 in federal court or through state-level tort claims involving public entities. Each has its own procedures and deadlines.
Camden County Context
Civil rights issues in Camden County may involve local police departments, corrections facilities, municipal governments, school districts, or public housing authorities.
Examples of potential case origins include:
- Arrests by Camden County Police Department, Cherry Hill Police, or Pennsauken Township Police
- Incidents occurring at Camden County Correctional Facility
- School discipline disputes involving Camden City School District or other public school entities
- Public employee retaliation claims involving county departments or municipal offices
- Jail medical neglect cases involving detainees or inmates in county custody
We review cases with care, working to determine whether a violation occurred and what avenues—legal or administrative—may be available for relief.
What Compensation Can a Civil Rights Claim Include?
Civil rights claims can seek monetary compensation and, in some cases, equitable remedies like injunctive relief or policy changes. A successful case may result in:
- Medical expenses from injuries sustained during unconstitutional conduct
- Lost wages due to retaliatory termination or suspension
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages (in federal court, in limited circumstances)
- Attorney’s fees under federal civil rights statutes
Each case is highly fact-specific. Not every instance of unfairness or harm will qualify under the legal definition of a civil rights violation. We advise clients clearly and carefully about the legal merit of each case.
Key Deadlines and Filing Requirements
Many civil rights cases are subject to strict deadlines. In New Jersey:
- Claims under Section 1983 must generally be filed within two years of the incident.
- If the claim is against a New Jersey public entity (such as a township or county office), the Tort Claims Act requires you to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the event.
Failing to meet these deadlines can result in losing the ability to pursue the claim, even if it has merit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is being treated unfairly by police the same as a civil rights violation?
Not necessarily. Civil rights laws protect against unconstitutional actions—not every instance of poor treatment or rudeness will rise to the level of a legal violation. That said, if your rights were violated under the Fourth, Fifth, Eighth, or Fourteenth Amendments, you may have a claim.
Can I file a civil rights claim if I was charged with a crime?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. An arrest made without probable cause, or the use of excessive force, may still violate your rights even if charges were filed. We analyze the full timeline and outcome of the case.
Do civil rights cases always go to federal court?
Not always. Many Section 1983 claims are filed in federal district court, but some claims may be pursued under New Jersey law in state court, especially those involving public employees or local entities.
How long do these cases take?
Civil rights cases can take months or even years. They often involve extensive discovery, expert review, and motion practice. We help clients understand what to expect at each stage.
Can I bring a claim against a public school or district?
Possibly. If the district or administrators denied your student due process, retaliated for protected speech, or discriminated unlawfully, a claim may be viable. These cases often overlap with education law and constitutional law.
Discuss a Civil Rights Concern in Camden County
If you believe your rights were violated by a Camden County public official, law enforcement officer, or institution, it’s important to speak with an attorney promptly. These cases are complex and time-sensitive.
To schedule a consultation, contact the Law Office of Terrell A. Ratliff at (856) 344-3808 or reach us online.