Police Misconduct and Civil Rights Claims in Texas
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed May 15, 2019
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
You may have grounds to file a civil rights lawsuit if the police mistreat you. The most common form of police misconduct is the use of excessive force, sometimes called police brutality. For instance, in one Texas case a woman alleged that a sheriff's deputy slammed her into a concrete bench while booking her on charges.
The main obstacle plaintiffs face in bringing such lawsuits is that police officers have a certain degree of "immunity," which ensures that they're not unreasonably hampered in performing their difficult job. Generally speaking, police officers will be immune from suit unless they violate someone's clearly established rights. The same immunity rules apply to lawsuits against sheriff's deputies, correctional officers, and others in law enforcement.
Overview of Police Misconduct and Civil Rights Claims in Texas
Although the best way to understand your legal rights is to consult an attorney, here is a "plain English" summary of some important aspects of suing for police misconduct in Texas.
| Statutes | Federal Law: 42 U.S. Code section 1983 Texas Law: Texas Tort Claims Act |
| Types of Police Misconduct | Police misconduct includes where an officer:
|
| Time Limit | The statute of limitations for a Section 1983 claim varies from one to six years because it borrows the state's time limit for personal injury claims. A claim is usually barred if it's brought past the deadline. The Texas Tort Claims Act provides only a brief window for asserting claims, sometimes as little as 45 days, so it's important to act quickly. |
| Immunity | Under a doctrine known as qualified immunity, law enforcement officers are shielded from liability for causing injuries or harm unless they violate someone's clearly established rights. Typically, the question of whether immunity applies is a central legal issue in a police misconduct case. A separate doctrine of immunity shields municipalities from some damages claims. |
| Damages | A plaintiff in a successful lawsuit for police misconduct can recover monetary damages. In addition, the other side may be required to pay the plaintiff's attorney fees. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Police Misconduct Laws in Texas: Related Resources
- Police Brutality Lawsuits and Section 1983
- What Procedures Must the Police Follow While Making an Arrest
Talk to an Attorney About Police Misconduct Laws in Texas
If you were a victim of police brutality, falsely arrested, or harmed by other misconduct, you may be able to file suit and obtain compensation for your injuries. Discuss your case with a Texas civil rights lawyer near you who will help defend your legal rights.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.