New York Civil Rights & Criminal Defense Lawyers
New York Civil Rights And Criminal Law Blog
What Counts as Discrimination by Law Enforcement?
Police discrimination remains one of the most pressing civil rights issues facing our communities today. Whether it manifests as racial profiling, excessive force, or biased enforcement practices, discrimination by law enforcement officers violates constitutional rights and erodes public trust. At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we've spent decades fighting for justice on behalf of New Yorkers who have faced discriminatory treatment at the hands of law enforcement. In this article, we'll explore what legally constitutes police discrimination, how to recognize it, and what steps you can take…
Breaking the Blue Wall of Silence at Mid-State
Breaking the Silence: Exposing Abuse at Mid-State Correctional Facility In July 2016, over 30 corrections officers at Mid-State Correctional Facility in Marcy, New York, launched a brutal raid on inmates in the prison’s 4-H dorm. Fueled by false allegations that one of their own had been attacked, the officers stormed in, inflicting severe physical and psychological harm. Inmates were subjected to beatings, racial slurs, and even sexual assaults. The officers made it clear that any attempt to speak out would result in further violence or even death.…
Exposing Abuse in New York Prisons
Exposing Abuse in New York Prisons: The Case Against Marcy Correctional Facility Guards In December 2024, the tragic death of inmate Robert Brooks at the hands of prison guards at Marcy Correctional Facility brought to light disturbing allegations of systemic abuse within the New York State prison system. Brooks’ death, captured on video, revealed a brutal assault by multiple guards while he was handcuffed and restrained in the prison infirmary. The video footage shows guards repeatedly punching and kicking Brooks as other officers stood by, seemingly indifferent…
Is a Nightclub or Restaurant Liable for Negligent Security?
If you've been injured due to an assault or other violent incident at a nightclub or restaurant, you may be wondering if the establishment can be held liable for negligent security. Property owners and operators have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their patrons by providing adequate security measures. If they fail to do so, and you are harmed as a result, they could be held accountable for your injuries. At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we are dedicated to helping victims of negligent security get…
How Long Does a DWI Stay On Your Record?
A Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) conviction can have lasting consequences, affecting your driving privileges, employment opportunities, and personal reputation. Understanding how long a DWI stays on your record is crucial to navigating the legal and social implications of such a conviction. In New York, the length of time a DWI remains visible on your record can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the offense and whether it is your first conviction. If you’re facing a DWI charge or already have one on your record,…
What is the Fourth Amendment?
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government, ensuring that citizens have the right to privacy and security in their homes, personal belongings, and communications. Understanding your Fourth Amendment rights is critical, especially when those rights are violated by law enforcement or other government entities. At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we are dedicated to defending the civil rights of individuals who have been unlawfully searched, detained, or had their property seized. If you believe your Fourth Amendment…
Can You Sue if Someone Dies in Jail?
When a loved one is incarcerated, their safety and well-being become a constant concern for family members. The tragic reality is that deaths in custody do occur, often under circumstances that raise serious questions about the care and treatment of inmates. For those left behind, the pain of loss is compounded by confusion about their legal rights and options. This blog post explores a critical question: Can you sue if someone dies while in jail? As experienced civil rights attorneys handling police misconduct and prisoner rights cases,…
Can I Sue the Police for Emotional Distress?
When interactions with law enforcement result in emotional trauma, it raises the question: can you sue the police for emotional distress? While emotional distress claims against police officers can be challenging, it is possible to seek justice in certain situations where misconduct, abuse of power, or unlawful actions have occurred. Understanding your legal rights and how emotional distress claims are handled is crucial to determining if you have a valid case. This blog explores the legal avenues available for individuals who have suffered emotional harm due to…
Taxpayer Dollars at Risk: Police Misconduct is Costing NY
In recent years, the financial burden of police misconduct on New York City taxpayers has become increasingly evident. Since 2018, lawsuits related to NYPD misconduct have cost the city an astounding $548,047,141, with a significant portion of this expense—$114,586,723—incurred in just 2023 alone. This data analysis, put forth by the Legal Aid Society, highlights a pressing issue: the financial implications of police misconduct extend far beyond the courtroom and directly impact the city's budget and resources. The Real Price of Police Misconduct These numbers are not only…
What is Malicious Prosecution?
In the realm of law, malicious prosecution is a term that strikes fear into the hearts of many. It involves the misuse of legal proceedings without probable cause, often resulting in severe financial and emotional consequences for the innocent party involved. Understanding what malicious prosecution entails and how to protect yourself against it is crucial in today's legal landscape. What is a False Arrest? False arrest occurs when an individual is detained or arrested without legal justification. This wrongful action can be committed by law enforcement officers…
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