This required training track introduces Kirakosian Law team members to the core principles of civil rights litigation and how our firm evaluates, files, and manages cases involving police misconduct, excessive force, unlawful search and seizure, and related constitutional claims.

You will learn how civil rights law works, how we assess case strength, the stages of a typical case from intake through trial, and the critical role our team plays in building high-quality, compliant files.

By the end of this track, you’ll be able to:
– Understand what qualifies as a viable civil rights case
– Identify key claims we pursue and red flags we avoid
– Support attorneys through proper document handling, communication, and process tracking
– Confidently participate in every stage from intake to federal litigation support

Completion of this track is mandatory for all new legal staff and must be renewed annually.

Course Content

What Is Civil Rights Law?
4 Topics
4 Quizzes
Topic 1.1: What Makes a Civil Rights Case – 42 U.S.C. § 1983
1.1 Civil Rights Cases Quiz
Topic 1.2: Common Defendants in Our Cases
1.2 Common Defendants Quiz
§ 1983 (Federal Claim) vs. § 910 (California Government Claim)
1.3 1983 vs 910 Quiz
Topic 1.4: The Role of Damages in a Civil Rights Case
1.4 Damages in Civil Rights Quiz
Understanding Police Misconduct Cases
7 Topics
Unlawful Search & Seizure (USS)
Excessive Force (EXF)
First Amendment Retaliation (FA)
Negligence (in Jail or Custody)
What Makes a Case Viable at Kirakosian Law
What Makes a Case Weak
Why This Matters for Intake Staff
Final Quiz
Civil Rights General Overview Quiz