Constitutional rights are fundamental to our democracy and are essential to protect Americans nationwide. The First Amendment provides some of the most important constitutional rights as it protects the freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, and the right to assemble. It also protects the right to petition the government to redress of grievances. The First Amendment states
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Without these protections, the government would be able to prevent individual Americans from speaking up and having a voice. The First Amendment ensures that Americans can express their opinions and views and practice their chosen religion without government interference. It does not protect against actions taken solely by private entities or individuals.
Examples of First Amendment Claims:
Common First Amendment violations include, but are not limited to:
- Law enforcement officers mistreating protestors, including the use of excessive force, unwarranted spying, and the failure to treat protesters and counter-protesters equally,
- Public employers retaliating against employees for engaging in protected speech (e.g., political activity)
- Government agencies targeting individuals because of their religion
The attorneys at Hadsell Stormer Renick & Dai have brought cases involving First Amendment violations on behalf of public employees, protestors, and other individuals against cities, law enforcement departments, school districts, and other federal and state governmental entities and agencies. For example:
- In September 2018, Hadsell Stormer Renick & Dai and the ACLU of Arizona filed a class action lawsuit against the City of Phoenix, the Phoenix police chief, and other police officers alleging excessive force and violation of First Amendment rights of free speech and assembly when the Phoenix Police Department violently dispersed protesters at a Trump protest in August 2017.
- In 2012, we settled a lawsuit filed against the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and former Orange County Sheriff Michael Carona for retaliating against a sheriff for exercising his First Amendment freedom of speech rights in supporting Carona’s opponent in the election for sheriff.
- In 2011, Hadsell Stormer Renick & Dai and the ACLU of Southern California filed a lawsuit against the FBI for unlawfully targeting and surveilling Muslim community members in violation of their constitutional rights to religious freedom and privacy.
Contact Us If You Believe Your Constitutional Rights Have Been Violated
Many people don’t know what to do if they believe their constitutional rights are violated. The first thing you should do is contact an experienced civil rights lawyer. Our lawyers at Hadsell Stormer Renick & Dai LLP are committed to pursuing justice for violations of civil and human rights. We have handled a wide range of civil rights cases and have the experience necessary to help you obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
Get in touch with our team today to learn how we can help you: (626) 775-7870!