A large number of cases are filed every year alleging a violation of civil rights. There is a large body of law governing civil rights claims. Two important sources of remedies for civil rights violations by the government and its officials are the Civil Rights Act of 1871 and the Constitution of the United States. The Civil Rights Act of 1871 was enacted to enforce the Fourteenth Amendment.

The courts have held that nominal, actual, and punitive damages may all be awarded. This section gives district courts jurisdiction over lawsuits that seek to redress deprivations of Constitutional and statutory rights. Finally, note that special immunities, arising from the constitution itself, exist in limited, unique circumstances.