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Civil Rights Law

Section 1983 is a federal law that allows people to sue in court if someone acting on behalf of a state or local government violates their civil rights under the U.S. Constitution or federal law. It gives individuals a way to seek compensation or other remedies when a government official misuses their authority and causes harm.

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Section 1983 Outline

This document is an outline of Section 1983 principles and procedural issues related to civil rights litigation within the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Last updated February 5, 2026