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Your constitutional rights are the bedrock of American democracy, and at DiDonato & Burke Law Firm, we’re dedicated to protecting them. Our civil rights attorneys have extensive experience in cases involving wrongful arrest, false imprisonment, police misconduct, and other violations of constitutional rights. If you need a civil rights attorney in Pennsylvania, our firm is prepared to advocate for your rights with experience and determination.
As a former prosecutor, Thomas Burke understands how law enforcement should operate within the bounds of the law. This unique perspective allows him to effectively advocate for his clients whose rights have been violated by those in positions of authority.
Thomas Burke, a seasoned civil rights attorney in Philadelphia, brings a wealth of knowledge in both federal and state statutes protecting individual liberties. With his background as a former prosecutor, Mr. Burke offers a unique perspective in handling civil rights cases. He is particularly adept at addressing Fourth Amendment violations, such as unlawful searches and seizures, First Amendment infringements including free speech and religious freedom issues, Eighth Amendment concerns related to cruel and unusual punishment, and Fourteenth Amendment matters involving due process and equal protection. Mr. Burke’s extensive courtroom experience and deep understanding of constitutional law make him a formidable advocate for clients whose civil rights have been violated.
If you’re looking for a dedicated Philadelphia civil rights lawyer or need trusted Philadelphia criminal defense representation, Thomas Burke is ready to fight for justice on your behalf.
Potential civil rights cases can involve allegations such as excessive force, unlawful arrest, unlawful detention, unconstitutional searches, misconduct by law enforcement, or certain mistreatment while incarcerated. Whether conduct violates federal or state law depends on the specific facts, the rights involved, and the legal standards governing the officials’ actions.
Deadlines can be extremely important in civil rights cases. Federal civil rights claims brought under 42 U.S.C. §1983 generally borrow Pennsylvania’s limitations period for personal-injury actions, but federal law and the facts determine when a claim accrues, and different claims or defendants may involve additional notice requirements or deadlines. Prompt legal review is recommended.
Seek appropriate medical care if you are injured and preserve available evidence. This may include photographs, videos, witness information, medical records, police paperwork, messages, and details about when and where the incident occurred. Avoid altering or deleting evidence and consider speaking with an attorney promptly because deadlines may apply.
Potentially. An arrest or detention may raise civil rights issues when it violates constitutional protections, but an unfavorable arrest does not automatically create a valid civil claim. The circumstances, probable cause, warrants, statements, evidence available to officers, and later criminal proceedings may all affect the legal analysis.
A civil rights attorney can review records, police reports, video, medical evidence, witness testimony, court records, and the circumstances of the incident to determine what legal claims may be available. The attorney can also evaluate filing deadlines, potential defendants, available defenses, and how related criminal proceedings may affect the civil case.
