Upholding Justice Under Federal and State Laws
Collins & Collins, P.C. is committed to fighting against civil rights violations in New Mexico, ensuring robust protection for all citizens, particularly children, prisoners, the elderly, and those with mental illnesses, under a wide range of legal statutes.
Key Areas of Focus
Our focus encompasses a broad spectrum of civil rights claims under various statutes, including:
- New Mexico Civil Rights Act (NMCRA)
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- New Mexico Human Rights Act (NMHRA)
- Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
These laws collectively address unlawful acts by employers, governmental agencies, and other entities, focusing on issues ranging from employment discrimination to police misconduct and accessibility violations.
Our Commitment to Civil Rights
Protecting the Most Vulnerable:
Civil rights laws are essential for the protection of fundamental freedoms and rights. Our firm takes a strong stance against violations that affect both the broader community and particularly vulnerable groups such as children, prisoners, the elderly, and individuals with mental illnesses.
Children’s Rights:
We advocate for the rights of children in educational settings and other public domains, ensuring protection against discrimination, unfair treatment, and any form of abuse. Our focus includes upholding the rights of children under the ADA and NMHRA, providing a safe and supportive environment for all children.
Prisoners’ Rights:
Collins & Collins, P.C. actively defends the rights of prisoners, who are often at risk of abuse and neglect. We handle cases involving correctional abuse, medical neglect, and violations of federally protected rights under §1983 and the NMCRA, ensuring that the constitutional rights of incarcerated individuals are defended.
Police Excessive Force:
Excessive force by police is a grave civil rights issue that requires diligent legal scrutiny. We address instances where law enforcement officers have used force exceeding the necessary amount to effectively carry out their duties. These cases often involve complex evaluations of the circumstances surrounding each incident, focusing on the protection of citizens’ rights under both state and federal law.
Rights of the Elderly:
Elderly individuals often face unique vulnerabilities, especially in institutional settings such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities. We fight against the abuse, neglect, and discrimination that the elderly may encounter, ensuring their rights are respected and protected.
Mental Illness Rights:
People with mental illnesses are frequently subjected to civil rights violations in various environments, from healthcare settings to law enforcement interactions. Our firm addresses cases involving discrimination, abuse, and the denial of necessary medical treatment or accommodations, advocating for the dignity and rights of those with mental health challenges.
Associated Tort Claims in Civil Rights Cases
Comprehensive Legal Approaches:
Civil rights violations often intersect with other serious legal concerns, necessitating a comprehensive approach to litigation. Collins & Collins, P.C. frequently handles cases where civil rights infringements are compounded by other tort claims, including:
Medical Negligence:
Especially prevalent in cases involving incarcerated individuals or police custody, where failure to provide adequate medical care can have devastating consequences.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress:
- Often arises in situations of abuse or misconduct, where the behavior of the offending party goes beyond mere negligence to willful and egregious mistreatment.
Negligence:
- Occurs when the failure to provide the standard of care expected in a given situation leads to harm or injury.
Wrongful Death:
- Pursued when a violation of civil rights leads directly to a loss of life, requiring a sensitive and assertive legal response.
This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of harm are addressed, providing our clients with a holistic legal strategy aimed at achieving comprehensive justice.
How Can We Help?
If you or someone you know has suffered from a civil rights violation involving serious injury or death, Collins & Collins, P.C. offers comprehensive legal representation aimed at achieving justice and meaningful change. We are dedicated to holding those who violate civil rights accountable and restoring the rights and dignity of our clients.
Contact us today for a consultation to explore your options and begin the journey towards justice.