Civil Rights Litigation

Nominal damages are a token court award—often $1 to $100—given when a plaintiff proves a legal right was violated but shows no measurable monetary loss. They acknowledge wrongdoing and can support other relief like declaratory or injunctive remedies. This article explains what nominal damages are, why courts award them, and common scenarios where they apply. […]

The exclusionary rule generally bars evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment from being used in a criminal prosecution. It’s designed to deter unlawful searches and seizures by law enforcement, though several exceptions can still allow the evidence in. This article explains what the exclusionary rule is, when it applies, key exceptions, and how […]