Filing a Civil Rights Lawsuit in California: Protecting Against Police Misconduct & The Crisis Happening Right Now in Our Communities

We are living in a moment where civil rights violations are not just a part of our history—they’re happening right now, often in silence, behind closed doors, and under the cover of legal authority.

At HH Law Firm, I recently filed a civil rights lawsuit in federal court on behalf of a client who was subjected to aggressive police action on his own property—including being tased and arrested without clear legal cause , and held for over 24 hours without access to a phone call or legal counsel. His only “offense”? Fitting the description from an anonymous, racially motivated tip.

This reflects a troubling pattern where constitutional rights are inconsistently protected and enforced. 

Here's what I’m seeing firsthand:

• Excessive Use of Force: Officers are escalating routine interactions into violent takedowns, often deploying tasers or worse—without justification or warning.

• Unlawful Arrests: Clients are being detained based on anonymous, unverified tips that reflect racial bias—not facts. We’re seeing probable cause applied loosely, often based on vague or racially biased descriptions. 

• Warrantless Home Searches: Without proper legal grounds, often entering homes, garages, and vehicles—often citing standard protocol where justification is unclear or absent. 

• Retaliation for Protected Speech: People who dare question officers or assert their rights—especially through speech—are punished. Fast.

• Targeted Policing Based on Race or Ethnicity: We’ve seen entire cases built around the ethnicity or national origin of the individual, with no other evidence supporting police action.

The Law Is Clear—But Enforcement Isn’t

We all have rights under the U.S. Constitution—freedom from excessive force, unlawful searches, false imprisonment, and racial discrimination. These aren’t vague ideals. They are legally enforceable rights under the First, Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendments.

In California, additional protections like the Bane Act (Civil Code § 52.1) and the Ralph Act (Civil Code § 51.7) prohibit threats, intimidation, and violence based on race, ethnicity, or political identity. These are powerful tools, but they only work if we use them.

And that’s exactly what I’m doing.

What You Should Know—and Share

If you or someone you know:

• Was arrested without cause

• Experienced physical force despite compliance

• Had your home or property searched without a warrant

• Was treated differently due to race, religion, or political beliefs

• Was denied access to a phone, legal counsel, or medical care while in custody

You may have grounds for a civil rights lawsuit. These are not just unfortunate incidents—they are violations of law, and they deserve real accountability.

California’s own Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board (RIPA) has acknowledged that charges like "resisting arrest"—when filed without any underlying offense—are a red flag for racial profiling and abuse of power. And yet, that exact scenario continues to unfold in our neighborhoods.

We’re seeing officers ignore their own department’s policies. We’re seeing a systemic failure to intervene when force goes too far. In many cases, charges are later dropped—often after significant harm has already occurred.

It’s not enough to be aware. We have to act.

My Pledge as a Civil Rights Attorney

I am committed to using every legal avenue—state and federal—to protect those whose rights have been violated. Whether through the courts, through media, or through public pressure, I will continue to fight for accountability and justice.

If you’ve experienced something like this, or know someone who has, speak up. Reach out. We’re here.

Let’s make something clear: Your rights don’t disappear when you encounter law enforcement. And if they’re violated, you have recourse. You have power.

If you’ve been the victim of police misconduct, contact HH Law Firm today. You don’t need to navigate this alone—we’re already in the fight.

Hani A. Habbas is a civil rights and personal injury attorney practicing in California and Washington, D.C. He is the founder of HH Law Firm, A Professional Law Corporation. Hani can be reached at hani@hhlawfirm.law or (949) 617-5901.

If you or someone you know has experienced police misconduct, such as excessive force, unlawful arrest, or racial profiling in California, it's crucial to understand your rights under both federal and state laws. At HH Law Firm, we specialize in civil rights litigation, advocating for victims of law enforcement abuse and ensuring accountability through legal channels. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in handling cases involving violations of constitutional rights, including those protected by the First, Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendments, as well as California's Bane Act and Ralph Act. We are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support to individuals seeking justice for civil rights violations in California and Washington D.C. 

This article addresses common questions and concerns, including:

• What constitutes police misconduct under California law?
  

• How to file a civil rights lawsuit for unlawful arrest or excessive force.
  

• Understanding your constitutional rights during police encounters.
  

• Legal protections against racial profiling and discrimination by law enforcement.
  

• Steps to take if your civil rights have been violated in California or Washington D.C.
  

• The role of the Bane Act and Ralph Act in protecting civil liberties.
  

• How a civil rights attorney can assist in holding law enforcement accountable.