A false arrest happens when law enforcement detains someone without proper legal authority. In New York, this can occur if an officer arrests someone without a warrant or probable cause. Knowing your rights and legal options is helpful if you believe you've been...
Civil Rights Violations
Understanding when police commit civil rights violations
Civil rights violations by police officers are a big concern. These issues affect trust between communities and law enforcement. In New York, knowing about these violations helps protect citizens' rights. Excessive force Police officers sometimes use more force than...
What are some signs of excessive force from the police?
Law enforcement plays a big role in maintaining public safety, but instances of excessive force are still an issue. Citizens need to be aware of signs that indicate the inappropriate use of force by law enforcement officers. Recognizing these signs can empower...
How police could violate your civil rights during an arrest in NY
Living in a democratic society, you possess certain inalienable rights that even law enforcement officials must respect during an arrest. However, instances occur where the police might violate these civil rights. Knowing what these violations are can equip you to...
What is a wrongful conviction?
If someone accuses you of a crime you did not commit; you may assume your innocence will be obvious to the judge and jury overlooking your case. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. In the U.S., many people face wrongful convictions. In fact, since 1989, the...
How to respond to police misconduct
The police are a vital part of society for keeping the peace. The high level of responsibility means law enforcement officers have an elevated standard to uphold. Unfortunately, police misconduct can still cause civil rights issues as there is no guarantee that all...
What are your rights when the police show up at your door?
If officers show up at your door, do you know what they can and cannot do? There are rights you have in every police encounter afforded to you under the law. The American Civil Liberties Union recommends making sure you understand your rights when encountering law...
When may law enforcement collect and store DNA samples?
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable search and seizure. Protection also applies to DNA samples. The American Bar Association notes that collecting DNA for evidence requires due process. If law enforcement officials have...
What are civil rights?
People often talk about their civil rights, but many people do not fully understand what this means. Civil rights are a privilege given to people under the law, according to the Legal Information Institute. In the United States, people get their civil rights through...
What is the right to due process?
As a U.S. citizen, you have many rights. You gain these through the constitution, which provides you some important protections, especially when you face criminal charges. One of those rights is due process, but many people do not understand what this means. Cornell...