Prisoner civil rights cases are generally filed pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 1983. Under section 1983, a prisoner must allege a violation of a right protected by the United States Constitution or created by federal statute caused by the conduct of a person acting under color of state law. Examples of persons normally acting under color of state law include county sheriffs, police officers, detention center personnel, and state prison guards.
42 U.S.C. § 1983 Prisoner Litigation Forms
- 1983 Prisoner Complaint Packet
- Application to Proceed Without Prepaying Fees (Proceed In Forma Pauperis).
42 U.S.C. § 1983 Prisoner Litigation Information