Illinois Civil Rights

Protecting your inalienable rights

Seidman Law Offices stand up for citizens and residents who have been mistreated in the United States.  If you were wrongfully denied your rights or were brutally treated by the police, our focused legal team is here to ensure you receive quality legal representation.  We evaluate your specific circumstances to determine if your rights were violated and develop sound strategies based on years of experience and extensive knowledge of the law.

Our work with civil rights specifically deals with—

The First Amendment

Initially only applicable to the federal government, the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution was extended to cover state and local governments in the 20th century.  It guarantees certain civil liberties, including—

  • Freedom of peaceable assembly
  • Freedom to petition the government for a redress of grievances

The Fourth Amendment

The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guards against unreasonable searches and seizures by the government.  Under the Fourth Amendment, search and arrest warrants must be approved by a judge and supported by probable cause.  Its protection extends to cover—

  • Persons
  • Houses
  • Papers
  • Other personal effects

It does not, however, protect your property from search or seizure by organizations or private citizens.

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Section 1983

Section 1983 of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1871 is designed to allow individuals to sue municipalities, state officials, and local officials if their federally protected rights have been violated.  It stipulates that any party acting beyond the bounds of lawful authority is liable by law for discriminatory actions or the deprivation of rights.

Civil rights claims that fall under section 1983 include—

Wrongful convictions

One of the worst civil rights violations is being convicted of a crime when you are innocent.  Wrongful convictions can be the result of many factors, including—

  • Illegal arrest
  • Unlawful search and seizure
  • Fabricated evidence
  • Mistakes in trial

The attorneys at Seidman Law Offices have the determination necessary to fight wrongful convictions and protect your rights under the law.

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Police brutality

We firmly believe no one has the right to abuse your constitutional rights or break the law.  This is especially true for individuals in positions of authority, including police agents, who have a duty to protect and serve the public.  At Seidman Law Offices, we hold law enforcement officials responsible for their actions.  Our Chicago police misconduct attorneys represent victims of—

  • Excessive force
  • Harassment
  • False arrest

Our lawyers know federal and Illinois state laws necessary to adeptly argue brutality cases in court or at the negotiation table.  While we do our best to settle cases out of court, we take claims to trial if the opposition does not offer fair and just compensation for your injuries. 

Exceptional attorneys.  Specialized care.  Uncommon results.

The Chicago lawyers at Seidman Law Offices are skilled litigators prepared to defend your civil rights.  Located close to the Sears Tower, we offer free initial consultations and regularly meet clients on nights or weekends by appointment.  We operate on a contingency fee basis. 

Contact Seidman Law Offices to speak to a experienced lawyer about your police brutality or civil rights case if you are located in Illinois.

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