Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for public and governmental entities to violate the rights of everyday citizens. In some cases, these citizens have had to ensure far longer terms of imprisonment than necessary. Fortunately, for some, there is a path to recourse through civil lawsuits under Statute 1983. Though you can’t get those years back, you may qualify for substantial compensation to help improve the quality of the rest of your life. Contact a dedicated Dallas civil rights lawyer from Spangler Law today.

Civil Rights Lawyer: Representing Clients With Statute 1983 Claims

Here at Spangler Law, we are committing to fighting for the justice and compensation our clients deserve after being excessively incarcerated in the Dallas County prison system. We have extensive experience handling Statute 1983 claims, and we stand ready to put that experience to work for you in your case as well.

What is Statute 1983?

Statute 1983, also known as 42 U.S.C. § 1983, is a federal law that allows individuals to sue for civil rights violations committed by government officials and entities. This statute is particularly significant in cases where individuals have been subjected to excessive detention or overdetention in prison.

Under Statute 1983, you can seek redress if a government official, acting under the color of law, has deprived you of your constitutional rights. This includes the right to be free from unlawful detention beyond your sentence. Filing a claim under this statute can hold officials accountable and provide compensation for the injustices you’ve suffered.

How Do I Know if I Qualify?

To qualify for a Statute 1983 claim for excessive detention, certain criteria must be met. They are as follows:

Violation of Constitutional Rights: You must demonstrate that your constitutional rights, specifically the right to due process and protection from unlawful detention, were violated.
Government Official Involvement: The violation must have been committed by a government official or someone acting under the authority of state law.
Proof of Overdetention: There must be clear evidence that you were held in custody longer than your legally mandated sentence.
Intent or Negligence: You need to show that the overdetention was due to the intentional actions or negligence of the government officials involved.
Exhaustion of Remedies: In some cases, you may need to have exhausted any available administrative remedies before filing a lawsuit.
Timely Filing: The claim must be filed within the applicable statute of limitations period for civil rights violations in Texas.

What Compensation Am I Entitled To?

If your Statute 1983 claim is successful, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including the following:

Economic Damages: Compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and any other financial losses incurred due to the overdetention.
Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life.
Punitive Damages: In cases of particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future.
Attorney’s Fees: Reimbursement for the legal costs associated with pursuing your Statute 1983 claim.
Injunctive Relief: Court orders to prevent further violations and mandate changes in policies or practices to protect other individuals from similar treatment.

How Long Do I Have to File a Statute 1983 Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a Statute 1983 claim is generally two years from the date of the alleged violation. This means you have a two-year window to initiate legal action after discovering that your rights were violated due to overdetention.

It is crucial to act promptly, as missing this deadline can bar you from seeking any compensation or justice for the harm you endured. Given the complexity of these cases and the need for thorough preparation, contacting a skilled civil rights lawyer as soon as possible is highly recommended to ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe.

Contact a Texas Civil Rights Lawyer Today

Don’t risk filing a Statute 1983 claim on your own. These cases are complex and require the attention of a skilled civil rights lawyer. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you are in the right place. Contact a Dallas lawyer from Spangler Law today to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable legal team.