MDAF civil rights lawyers exclusively defend governments and their employees from claims of civil rights violations. Civil rights claims are a method by which a person’s constitutional rights are enforced through the courts. MDAF is a highly experienced and deeply established firm, providing quality legal representation to municipalities throughout New York state. We utilize aggressive, pro-active and cost-conscious case management in the successful defense of civil rights and insurance claims. Due to our extensive trial and appellate experience, we have the ability to quickly analyze the key issues of liability and immunity defenses that are central to resolving civil rights claims efficiently and with prudence. We represent many counties, towns and their law enforcement departments throughout New York. When governmental bodies and their employees are confronted with a civil rights lawsuit, they need to rely upon well-established attorneys who are skilled in defending every possible type of case. MDAF has successfully handled the defense of all civil rights cases, including: - Sexual harassment cases
- Employment discrimination in hiring, firing and benefits
- Wrongful death
- Police liability claims, including:
- Excessive use of force
- Unlawful imprisonment
- False arrest
- False imprisonment
- Assault and battery
- Malicious prosecution
- Improper training and supervision
In addition, MDAF handles Section 1983 civil rights claims founded upon the Civil Rights Act of 1871, the primary tool used today by those claiming violation of their federal constitutional rights as a result of actions or inactions by governments through their officials and employees. Immunity can be the first line of defense in a civil rights action. The defense of qualified immunity insulates government officials and employees when their actions or inactions meet certain legal requirements developed by the courts, protecting them and the governmental body from liability. MDAF lawyers are proficient in efficiently and cost-effectively protecting government employees, their supervisors and employing agencies from civil rights liability. |