New Jersey Jail Injury & Neglect Attorneys
Corrections Officer & Prison Guard Misconduct
In the United States, all individuals have certain inalienable rights. This includes individuals who are currently incarcerated or in the custody of law enforcement. Just because a person has been imprisoned, this does not mean that they have lost their right to proper treatment from corrections officers, prison guards, and other law enforcement officials.
If you or someone you love has been abused, mistreated, or neglected while detained, arrested, or incarcerated, you have the right to take legal action. By filing a civil lawsuit against the liable party, you can seek compensation for damages you have endured as a result of a serious injury or medical condition resulting from abuse or neglect by prison staff or corrections officers. At van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, we represent victims of prison abuse and neglect, as well as the families of people who pass away while incarcerated. Our New Jersey jail injury and neglect attorneys are committed to standing up for the rights of all people and fighting on behalf of those who have their civil rights violated by powerful people and entities.
To learn more, including how we can fight for your fair recovery, call (215) 486-0123 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
What Constitutes Jail Mistreatment & Neglect?
People who are in the custody of law enforcement and/or incarcerated have the right to proper treatment. This means that they have the right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment, abuse, and neglect. But what exactly does jail abuse and neglect look like?
The mistreatment of inmates takes many forms, including but not limited to:
- Physical abuse, such as excessive use of force and torture
- Assault, including sexual assault by prison staff
- Ignoring sexual assault by fellow inmates
- Refusal to provide medical care
- Failure to respond to suicidal ideation
- Neglecting inmates with mental health disorders
- Withholding of food and/or water
- Failure to intervene in inmate-on-inmate assaults
- Harassment/singling out inmates for punishment
These and other forms of jail mistreatment and neglect can lead to severe bodily injury, life-threatening medical complications, and death. When this occurs, prison staff and other responsible parties can be held accountable.
What to Do If an Inmate Is Being Mistreated
The mistreatment and neglect of jail and prison inmates is a type of civil rights violation. If you or someone you care about has been mistreated by prison staff, you can file a formal complaint with the facility. Often, the most effective method is visiting the facility in person and speaking directly to administrative staff. If you are unable to visit the facility, you can call and ask to speak to the appropriate staff member.
If the issue remains unsolved, you may contact the New Jersey Department of Corrections and report the abuse or neglect. If necessary, you can also contact the New Jersey State Governor’s Office. If the issue continues, you may also reach out to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Jersey.
We also strongly recommend that you seek legal help. By putting an attorney on your side, you send a message that jail abuse and neglect will not be tolerated. Additionally, your attorney can immediately begin preparing your case and protecting your rights, as well as the rights of your loved one.
At van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, we conduct exhaustive investigations and meticulously prepare cases for trial. Our New Jersey jail injury and neglect attorneys have decades of combined experience, as well as a proven track record of success in this highly complex area of law. We have represented individuals and families who have suffered devastating losses due to the misconduct and negligence of law enforcement officers, corrections officers, prison guards, jail staff, and large, powerful corrections facilities. Our team is ready to aggressively advocate for you and the justice your family deserves.
What Clients Say About Us
Caring Deeply About Our Clients and Their Families-
“Micheal van der Veen was my attorney and he did an outstanding job on my case. He really listens and cares about your situation no matter how big or small and also makes you feel right at home when your in his office.”
- Matt Swisher -
“The van der Veen team treats you as family. We win together. You are not just a client, but a family member when you choose this office.”
- Antonio Walker -
“It has been a real pleasure to work with Mr. van der Veen and his team. They really care not only about the case and the legal issues, but mainly about the person. The legal work is excellent and the result in our case was simply outstanding!”
- Nadia Hristova
In the Media
Choosing the Right Firm Can Make All the Difference
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Unrivaled Record of SuccessWe have won tens of millions of dollars for injured victims, and have achieved countless "not guilty" verdicts for clients faced with criminal charges.
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No Challenge too BigOur firm has handled some of the biggest cases in country, including representing the President of the United States.
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Personalized Representation
We understand that every case is unique. Therefore, we tailor our approach based on the facts of the case and the needs of our client.
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Uncompromising PassionOur competitive nature is one of our strongest qualities. You can be confident that no other firm will outwork our team.
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Holistic ApproachNot only do we want to excel legally for the client, but we also want to make sure we are strengthening their mind, body and spirt.
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Supporting the CommunityOur team engages in many community events and regularly donates time and resources to many charitable organizations in Philadelphia.
Home to Philadelphia’s most accomplished attorneys, van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin pairs diverse practice experience with a passion-driven, comprehensive law practice—all for the client’s benefit.