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Qualified Immunity

A legal doctrine that protects government officials, including law enforcement officers, from liability in civil lawsuits unless their conduct violates clearly established statutory or constitutional rights, and there is no reasonable question that their actions were unlawful.

42 U.S.C. 1983 (Section 1979 of the Revised Statutes)

A federal law that allows people to sue state and local government officials who, acting 'under color of law,' deprive them of their constitutional rights. This bill expands it to include federal officers.

Civil Action

A lawsuit brought in court to obtain money or other relief for a private wrong, rather than to punish a crime. These actions are between individuals, organizations, or governments.

Deprivation

In this context, it refers to the act of taking away or denying someone their legal rights, privileges, or immunities guaranteed by the Constitution and laws.

Under Color of Law

Refers to an action taken by a person who is acting as a government official, even if their specific action is outside the bounds of their authority or illegal. It means they are using their official power or position to carry out the action.