Attorney Chris O’Cleireachain of Valle, O’Cleireachain, Zamora & Harris recently represented a plaintiff in a civil rights lawsuit against the State of New Mexico, arising from an assault by a former New Mexico State Police officer. The case resulted in a settlement with the state.
This case reflects an important point that many abuse survivors are not aware of: a civil claim can move forward on its own, separate from any criminal case. In this particular instance, prosecutors dismissed the initial criminal charge of rape against the police officer accused and never refiled it. The civil rights lawsuit, filed by VOZH Law in New Mexico’s First Judicial District Court, proceeded independently and was ultimately successful in securing a measure of accountability for the survivor.
Civil rights cases against government agencies and law enforcement carry a distinct kind of legal complexity. Many of these cases draw on civil rights law and questions surrounding official conduct and authority. As a result, representing survivors of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or sexual violence requires methodical investigation. The approach practiced at VOZH includes a firm understanding of governing law and a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes client well-being throughout every stage of the case.
Valle, O'Cleireachain, Zamora & Harris takes pride in representing survivors of sexual assault and harassment in civil claims, especially in cases that involve institutions that failed to protect the people in their care. New Mexicans deserve respect and dignity from the agencies entrusted with their care, and VOZH Law ensures their voices are heard – and listened to.
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