The United States Constitution protects people in its borders from the overreach of the government with a Bill of Rights and limited powers.
Government force is often initiated through actions by law enforcement officers at the local, state and federal level.
When law enforcement officers act beyond the scope of their powers in Puerto Rico, civil rights lawyers represent the infringed-upon to not only help the victim recover for damages, but also to change public policy and keep police powers in check.
Additionally, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects people from unlawful discrimination by other citizens, business entities and local governments.