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What Are Monell Claims and When Can a Municipality Be Sued for Civil Rights Violations?

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Loyda Gomez
Written byLoyda GomezParalegal & Office ManagerB.A.Sc., Political Science & Government, John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY), 22+ years at The Orlow Firm, Bilingual: English and Spanish

Updated: October 14, 2025 · 29 min read

What Are Monell Claims and How Do They Apply in NYC?

Quick Answer: A Monell claim, originating from the 1978 U.S. Supreme Court decision Monell v. Department of Social Services of the City of New York, enables individuals to pursue legal action against a municipality (such as New York City) for violations of constitutional rights directly linked to the city's official policies or prevailing customs. In essence, it establishes that a city can be held accountable for harm stemming from its systemic practices, not merely from the isolated misconduct of its individual employees.

Here are the key aspects of a Monell claim:

  • Absence of Vicarious Liability: Monell claims fundamentally differ from holding a city responsible simply due to an employee's wrongful act (known as vicarious liability). To succeed, there must be demonstrable evidence that an official policy or a pervasive, established custom of the municipality directly led to the constitutional infringement.
  • Policy or Custom Requirement: The unconstitutional conduct must be demonstrably connected to an official municipal policy (which could be a formally written rule, regulation, or ordinance) or an unofficial but widespread and persistent custom. This custom must be so ingrained that it carries the force of law.
  • Deliberate Indifference: In certain scenarios, a Monell claim can be based on a municipality's failure to adequately train or supervise its employees. For this to qualify, such a failure must clearly indicate the city's deliberate indifference to the risk of constitutional violations occurring.
  • Examples in Policing: Within the realm of law enforcement, a Monell claim might be pursued if a consistent pattern of excessive force incidents can be directly linked to the police department's inadequate training protocols or an unwritten custom that inadvertently fosters such behavior.
  • Dual Purpose of Redress: Monell claims serve not only to seek monetary compensation for damages sustained due to the constitutional violation but also to address systemic issues within the municipality. These lawsuits can potentially lead to systemic reforms and encourage necessary policy changes within the city's operations.
  • Application in NYC: Given that the landmark Monell case itself involved the New York City Department of Social Services, the city often finds itself as a defendant in such claims. This is particularly true in cases involving alleged police misconduct, where victims of police brutality, unlawful arrest, or other constitutional violations may have grounds for a Monell claim if they can demonstrate that the city's policies or widespread customs contributed to the incident.
To speak with someone about a potential Monell claim, call The Orlow Firm's police misconduct lawyers at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

When Can You Sue a City or Government Agency for Civil Rights Violations?

You can sue a city or government agency for civil rights violations if the harm was caused by an official policy, practice, or failure to act. In these cases, a type of lawsuit called a Monell claim may apply. This allows people to hold a municipality, like New York City, responsible when its actions—or lack of proper action—lead to a violation of someone’s constitutional rights. Under current law, you generally cannot sue a city just because one of its employees did something wrong. Instead, the city can only be held responsible when:
  • The violation was caused by an official policy or custom
  • A high-ranking decision-maker, like a police chief or commissioner, approved or allowed the wrongful behavior
  • The city failed to train or supervise its workers, and that failure led to the violation
For example, if an NYPD officer uses excessive force, you usually cannot sue the City of New York just for that alone. But if evidence shows the city had a practice of ignoring complaints or failed to train officers properly, you may have grounds for a Monell claim. Here are some common times when you might be able to sue:
  • Police Misconduct: If police routinely use excessive force and the city fails to stop it.
  • Unlawful Arrests: If people are being arrested without cause due to a department-wide practice.
  • Jail Abuse: If people are harmed in city-run jails because of poor supervision or training.
  • Racial Discrimination: If a city agency enforces rules in a biased or unfair way.
In these cases, the city may be legally responsible under federal law for not correcting a known problem, or for having a policy that caused it in the first place. Monell claims are often filed under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, originally enacted as part of the Civil Rights Act of 1871 (also known as the Ku Klux Klan Act). This federal law lets people sue state or local governments for violating rights protected by the U.S. Constitution, such as the right to be free from unreasonably harsh punishment or wrongful arrest. Because these claims are complex, they often require strong proof that the city had notice of the issue and failed to take meaningful action. If you or a loved one has been affected by government wrongdoing in New York City, you may have the right to pursue a Monell claim. Call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 to learn more during a free, confidential consultation.

What Types of Misconduct Can Lead to a Monell Claim in New York?

Monell claims allow you to sue a city or local government when their actions—or lack of action—violate your civil rights. In New York, this often involves agencies like the NYPD, the Department of Corrections, or other city-run organizations. But not just any misconduct applies. To bring a valid Monell claim, the violation must be caused by an official policy, practice, or failure to train employees. Here are the most common types of misconduct that can lead to a Monell claim in New York City:
  • Excessive Force by Police: If police officers routinely use more force than necessary and the city fails to correct this, the city can be held accountable under Monell.
  • False Arrests or Wrongful Detention: Arresting someone without probable cause can lead to a civil rights violation, especially if it’s part of an ongoing pattern within the department.
  • Failure to Train or Supervise: If the city does not properly train its employees—like corrections officers or police—on how to handle situations lawfully, this can lead to misconduct and a Monell claim.
  • Racial Profiling or Discriminatory Practices: If a department has a known practice of targeting people based on race or other protected traits, the city may be responsible.
  • Ignoring Civil Rights Complaints: A Monell claim may be possible if the city or agency knows about repeated rights violations and does nothing to fix the problem.
  • Inhumane Jail Conditions: For example, if inmates in city jails face unsafe or abusive conditions due to poor policies or staff misconduct, the city could be liable.
To succeed in a Monell case, it’s not enough to show that one employee acted badly. You must show that the wrongful act stemmed from a broader issue with city policy or a repeated failure to address a known problem. For example, if a New York City police officer uses excessive force during an arrest, and investigations show this officer has done so before with no discipline, the city could be liable—especially if other officers have similar complaints. These claims are complex, but they play a key role in holding New York City and its agencies accountable when civil rights are violated through systemic misconduct or policy failures.

How Do You Prove a Monell Claim Against a New York Municipality?

To prove a Monell claim against a New York City municipality, you need to show more than just a civil rights violation by a government employee. You must also prove that the city or agency itself is responsible because of a policy, practice, or custom that allowed the violation to happen. This kind of claim is based on a 1978 Supreme Court case called Monell v. Department of Social Services. A Monell claim does not hold the city responsible just because a city worker—like a police officer or teacher—did something wrong. It must be shown that the harmful action happened because of something the city did or failed to do through its policies or repeated behavior. To prove a Monell claim in NYC, here are the main things you'll need:
  1. A constitutional violation occurred : First, you must prove that your constitutional rights were violated. This could involve excessive force, false arrest, or another civil rights issue.
  2. A policy or custom caused the violation : You must connect the violation to a city policy, official practice, or common custom. This means the wrongdoing wasn’t just a one-time event but something the city allowed, ignored, or encouraged through its behavior.
  3. The city acted with “deliberate indifference” : This means the city knew—or should have known—that the policy or practice could lead to civil rights violations and failed to fix the problem.
There are several ways to show that a government policy or practice led to your harm:
  • Written policies that are unconstitutional or improperly carried out.
  • A pattern of similar incidents where the city failed to prevent or correct violations, showing an unofficial but common practice.
  • Failure to train or supervise employees properly, especially if this failure puts people at risk.
  • Decisions made by high-ranking officials who have final authority and whose choices represent official policy.
For example, if the NYPD consistently ignores officer misconduct, and citizens regularly report similar abuses, that could support a Monell claim. Or if correction officers repeatedly use excessive force at a city jail, and the Department of Correction takes no action, that pattern may prove a wrongful policy or custom. Monell claims are complex and require strong evidence. If you believe your civil rights were violated by a New York City agency or employee, an experienced civil rights lawyer can help you gather the right facts, documents, and witness statements to support your claim. For help right now, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free, confidential consultation.

What Evidence Helps Support a Successful Monell Lawsuit in NYC?

To successfully bring a Monell claim in New York City, you must prove that a city agency, like the NYPD or Department of Corrections, had an official policy or custom that led to the violation of your rights. This means that the wrongdoing wasn’t just one officer’s actions—it came from the city’s practices, training failures, or lack of oversight. To do this, you need strong and specific evidence. Types of evidence that can help support a Monell claim in NYC include:
  • Official policies or written documents: City manuals, procedures, or training materials that show the agency encouraged or allowed harmful behavior can help prove your case.
  • Pattern of similar incidents: Records of past complaints, lawsuits, or reports showing the same kind of misconduct happening over time. This shows the city knew about it but failed to fix the problem.
  • Failure to train or supervise: Evidence that officers were not properly trained, or that the agency didn’t supervise employees to prevent recurring abuse.
  • Internal reports or investigations: Details from internal reviews, disciplinary records, or audits can reveal if misconduct was ignored or covered up.
  • Statements from officials: Public comments or emails from leaders showing they approved of, ignored, or failed to act on known problems.
  • Expert testimony: Professionals who study police conduct or civil rights may testify how the city’s practices violate the law or fall short of accepted standards.
  • Video or audio recordings: Footage from body cameras, security cameras, or 911 calls can show how an incident occurred and support the claim of a policy-related problem.
  • Sworn statements from witnesses: Accounts from victims, bystanders, or former employees can describe how misconduct was widespread or accepted within the agency.
For example, in New York City, if an officer has used excessive force and many others in the same unit have done the same without punishment, that might show a pattern. If this continues and the NYPD’s leadership knew but did nothing, it may support a Monell claim for failing to train or supervise. Gathering this evidence can be difficult. Often, you must request documents from city agencies, file Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests, or use legal tools during a lawsuit to get what you need. Working with a civil rights attorney can help you collect the right kind of proof and build a strong case. If you believe your civil rights were violated by a New York City agency and it may have been part of a larger problem, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

How Are Monell Claims Different from Other Civil Rights Cases?

Monell claims are different from most other civil rights cases because they involve suing a government agency or municipality, not just a person. In many civil rights cases, an individual—like a police officer—is held responsible for their actions. But in a Monell claim, you're holding the city or government entity accountable because of its own policies or practices. This type of claim is based on the 1978 Supreme Court case Monell v. Department of Social Services. The Court ruled that local governments, like New York City or the NYPD, can be sued under federal law (42 U.S.C. § 1983) if their own official policies or customs cause a violation of someone’s constitutional rights. Here’s how Monell claims stand out from other civil rights cases:
  • You sue the city or agency itself: In typical civil rights cases, the person who violated your rights—like a police officer—is sued. In a Monell claim, you sue the whole agency, such as the NYPD or Department of Correction, for allowing or encouraging the abuse.
  • Focus is on policy, not just one person’s actions: For Monell claims, the key issue is whether there was a pattern, custom, or policy that caused the wrongdoing. One bad act isn’t enough—you have to show the problem was part of how the agency operates.
  • Must prove a connection between the policy and your injury: It’s not enough to show a policy exists—you have to prove the policy directly led to your rights being violated.
For example, if an NYPD officer used excessive force against you, that alone may not be enough for a Monell claim. But if you can show the department allowed or ignored repeated complaints of similar conduct without making changes, that could be evidence of a policy or failure to train that supports a Monell claim. In short, Monell cases don’t just look at what happened to you—they ask why it happened and whether the city itself played a role. This makes them more complex, but also powerful tools for accountability. If you believe your rights were violated by a New York City agency, it's important to understand whether a Monell claim may apply. For guidance on your specific case, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

What Is the Legal Process for Filing a Monell Claim in New York City?

Filing a Monell claim in New York City involves several legal steps. These steps aim to show that a city agency, like the NYPD or Department of Corrections, caused a civil rights violation through its official policies or customs. Below is a clear breakdown of the legal process for bringing a Monell claim against a municipality in NYC.

1. Filing a Notice of Claim

Before you can sue a city agency in New York, you must first file a Notice of Claim. This is a written document that alerts the city to your complaint. You usually have only 90 days from the date of the incident to file this notice. The Notice of Claim must include:
  • Your name and contact information
  • Details of the incident – date, time, and location
  • The type of harm you suffered
  • Why you believe the city is responsible

2. The City's Response Period

Once you file the Notice of Claim, the city has time to review your allegations. They may ask you to appear for a hearing, often called a "50-h hearing." This is like a deposition, where you give a sworn statement about what happened. The city uses this to gather more information before a lawsuit is filed.

3. Filing the Lawsuit in Court

After filing the notice and going through any hearings, you can file your Monell lawsuit in court. You must do this within one year and 90 days from the date of the incident. In federal court, you will likely bring the case under Section 1983, a federal law that covers civil rights violations. To succeed in a Monell claim, you must prove that:
  • The violation was caused by an official policy of the city or agency
  • Or by a widespread practice or custom – even if it wasn't written down
  • Or that the city failed to train or supervise employees properly

4. Discovery Process

Once the case is in court, both sides enter what's called "discovery." This is the stage where each side gathers evidence. Your attorney may request records, policies, or videos, and may take sworn statements from city employees. Discovery is key to proving that a city policy or failure caused the constitutional violation.

5. Trial or Settlement

If the case doesn’t settle during discovery or through motion practice, it may go to trial. There, a judge or jury will decide whether the city is legally responsible and what compensation you should receive. However, many Monell cases are resolved in settlements before reaching trial. Because Monell claims can be complex and involve strict legal deadlines, it’s important to act quickly. An experienced civil rights attorney can help guide you through each step. To learn how The Orlow Firm may be able to help with your Monell claim in New York City, call (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

Are There Time Limits for Filing a Monell Claim in NYC?

If you're thinking about filing a Monell claim in New York City, it’s important to know there are strict time limits for doing so. Missing these deadlines can stop your case before it even begins. These rules are part of what’s called the statute of limitations and notice of claim requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the legal time limits for Monell claims in NYC:

1. You Must File a Notice of Claim Within 90 Days

If you're suing a city agency like the NYPD, Department of Corrections, or another public entity, you usually need to file a Notice of Claim. This legal document tells the city that you plan to sue. In most cases involving city misconduct or civil rights violations, you must file this notice within 90 days of the incident. The city then has 30 days to request a hearing or investigate your claim before you’re allowed to file a lawsuit.
  • Example: If you were wrongfully arrested by the NYPD on April 1st, you would have until June 30th to file your Notice of Claim.

2. You Have One Year and 90 Days to File a Lawsuit

After the Notice of Claim is filed, you have more time to actually start the lawsuit in court. In most cases where you're suing a New York City agency under a Monell theory, you must file your lawsuit within one year and 90 days from the date of the incident. This is shorter than the usual three-year deadline for some other types of personal injury cases. So it’s especially important to act quickly when a city agency is involved.

3. Federal Civil Rights Claims Have a Different Deadline

Monell claims often involve federal rights under Section 1983 of the U.S. Civil Rights Act. If you’re only filing in federal court under Section 1983 (and not using state law claims), you may have up to three years from the date your rights were violated. However, this doesn’t remove the need to file a Notice of Claim if you're also using local New York law or suing in state court.

Don’t Wait to Get Help

The legal clock starts ticking the moment your rights are violated. Because different deadlines apply depending on how and where you file, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. At The Orlow Firm, we can help you understand your specific deadlines and file all paperwork on time. To protect your rights, call The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you take the right legal steps within the deadlines that apply.

What Compensation Can You Receive from a Monell Lawsuit?

If you file a Monell lawsuit in New York City, you may be able to recover different types of compensation. These cases often involve civil rights violations by a city agency, such as the NYPD or the Department of Correction. If a government policy or custom caused your harm, and the court agrees, you may be entitled to payment for the losses you suffered. The purpose of compensation in a Monell claim is to make up for what you’ve lost because of the violation of your rights. Here are common types of compensation available in a Monell lawsuit:
  • Medical Expenses: If you were injured, you may recover costs for hospital visits, surgeries, medication, therapy, and ongoing medical care.
  • Lost Wages: If the injury or trauma caused you to miss work, you may be awarded money for the wages you lost, as well as future income if you can’t return to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Civil rights violations often cause emotional distress. You may receive compensation for mental anguish, trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Punitive Damages: Under City of Newport v. Fact Concerts, Inc., 453 U.S. 247 (1981), punitive damages are not available against municipalities in Section 1983 actions. However, punitive damages may be sought against individual government employees sued in their personal capacities.
  • Attorneys’ Fees and Legal Costs: Under certain civil rights laws, if you win your case, the city may be required to pay your legal fees and court costs.
Let’s look at an example. Suppose an NYPD officer used excessive force during an arrest in Brooklyn, and there is evidence that this was due to an unofficial policy or lack of proper training by the NYPD. If this is proven in court, you may be compensated for medical treatment, long-term trauma, and time missed from work—all tied to the city's failure to protect your rights. Every Monell case is different. What you can recover depends on the facts, the harm you suffered, and whether the city’s actions (or lack of proper action) can be proven in court. If you believe your civil rights were violated by a New York City agency, it's important to understand what compensation you may be entitled to. Contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.

Can You Sue the NYPD or Other NYC Agencies Under Monell?

Yes, you can sue the NYPD and other New York City agencies under a legal rule known as a Monell claim. Monell claims allow individuals to sue a city or government agency for civil rights violations—but only under certain conditions. In general, you can't sue a city or its agencies just because an employee did something wrong. Instead, you must show that the agency itself had a policy, custom, or practice that led to the violation of your rights. This rule comes from the U.S. Supreme Court case Monell v. Department of Social Services. To file a Monell claim against the NYPD or another city agency, your case must meet specific criteria. Here’s how it works in practice:
  • The misconduct was part of an official policy: This could be a written rule or regular protocol used by the NYPD or city agency that caused the harm.
  • The city ignored known problems: If supervisors knew about officers violating people’s rights and did nothing to stop it, that could be grounds for a Monell claim.
  • There was a custom or habit of misconduct: Even if it’s not written down, long-standing patterns of abuse or discrimination can qualify.
  • Poor training or supervision: If the city failed to properly train or oversee officers, and that failure led to a civil rights violation, the city could be held responsible.
Example in NYC: Imagine a person is wrongly arrested and injured by NYPD officers who used excessive force. If it turns out that the NYPD had a pattern of this kind of behavior and failed to correct it, a Monell claim may allow that person to sue the city itself, not just the individual officers. This type of legal action is most often used in cases involving:
  • Excessive force by police
  • False arrest or wrongful imprisonment
  • Illegal searches
  • Failure to protect someone from harm while in custody
Monell claims are complicated, and proving a policy or pattern isn’t always easy. But if you or a loved one believe your civil rights were violated by a city agency such as the NYPD, seeking legal guidance is crucial. An attorney can help gather the right evidence and determine whether a Monell claim is possible in your situation. For help with your civil rights case in New York City, contact The Orlow Firm for a free consultation at (646) 647-3398. We're here to listen and help you understand your legal options.

How Can a Civil Rights Lawyer Help with Your Monell Case in NYC?

Handling a Monell claim in New York City can be complicated. A civil rights lawyer can play a key role in guiding you through the process and helping protect your rights. These cases often involve suing a city agency like the NYPD or the Department of Correction for civil rights violations. Here’s how an attorney can help with your Monell case:
  • Reviewing Your Case: A lawyer will review what happened in detail. They look at whether your rights were violated and if the city’s actions or policies played a role.
  • Identifying City Policies or Practices: To win a Monell claim, you must show the city had a harmful policy, custom, or practice. A lawyer knows how to dig for this information using legal tools.
  • Collecting Key Evidence: Civil rights lawyers gather important records such as body camera footage, internal documents, or past complaints. They may also interview witnesses or call on experts.
  • Filing Legal Documents: Suing a city involves strict rules and deadlines. An attorney helps file the right papers on time and in the right place so your claim isn’t thrown out.
  • Handling Negotiations: If the city wants to settle, your lawyer can talk with them to try to reach a fair agreement without going to trial.
  • Taking the Case to Court: If needed, your lawyer can represent you in court. They’ll argue your case before a judge or jury and explain how the city’s wrong actions hurt you.
These cases often involve complex details about government actions and civil rights law. A lawyer with experience in Monell claims can help connect those dots and build a strong case on your behalf. For example, if you were wrongfully arrested in Brooklyn due to a repeated NYPD practice of targeting residents without clear cause, a civil rights attorney might work to show it's more than just a one-time mistake—it’s a pattern tied to departmental policies. Having the right legal support can make a big difference in such claims. If you believe a city agency in New York violated your rights, speaking with a civil rights lawyer can help you understand your options and next steps. Contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free, confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monell Claims in New York

  • What is a Monell claim? A Monell claim is a legal action you can take against a city or government agency when your civil rights are violated. These claims come from a Supreme Court case called Monell v. Department of Social Services. In simple terms, it means you can sometimes sue the city for harm done by its employees—like police officers—if the harm was caused by an official policy, custom, or lack of oversight.
  • Can I sue the City of New York for police misconduct? Yes, but only under certain conditions. You must show that the police officer’s actions were not just individual mistakes. Instead, the misconduct must be connected to a larger issue—like a department-wide policy, custom, or failure to supervise or train officers. That’s what makes it a Monell claim.
  • Does my case have to involve a written policy? No. While written policies can be used as evidence, a Monell claim can also be based on an unwritten practice or pattern. For example, if officers in a certain precinct have a known history of excessive force and the city does nothing to stop it, that could support a claim.
  • What are common examples of Monell claims in NYC? These claims often involve:
    • Police brutality or excessive force
    • Unlawful arrests without proper cause
    • Failing to provide medical care while in custody
    • Racial profiling or discrimination
    • Wrongful convictions caused by poor training or oversight
  • How is a Monell claim different from suing just one officer? When you sue an officer individually, you are holding that one person responsible. A Monell claim aims to hold the city or agency responsible because their policies or actions allowed the harm to happen. Winning a Monell claim may also lead to broader changes in how the agency operates.
  • Do I need to prove that the city meant to cause harm? No, intent is not required. You just need to show that the city’s action—or failure to act—led to the violation of your rights. For example, if the city ignored signs that their officers were acting violently and took no steps to fix it, that could be enough.
  • Are there time limits for filing a Monell claim in NYC? Yes. For federal Section 1983 Monell claims, you generally have three years from the date of the violation to file suit, and no Notice of Claim is required. However, if you also bring state-law tort claims against the city, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days and commence the lawsuit within one year and 90 days of the incident. Because multiple deadlines may apply, it's important to speak with a lawyer promptly.
  • Can I sue the NYPD under a Monell claim? Yes, but officially, the lawsuit would be against the City of New York, not the NYPD as an individual agency. The NYPD is part of the city government, so if your rights were violated by an NYPD officer, a Monell claim would target the city itself.
  • What kind of compensation can I get in a Monell lawsuit? If successful, you may be able to recover money for:
    • Physical and emotional injuries
    • Lost wages
    • Medical expenses
    • Pain and suffering
    • Attorney’s fees The specific amount depends on the facts of your case.
  • Do I need a lawyer to file a Monell claim? Monell claims can be complex, especially when they involve large city agencies like the NYPD or Department of Corrections. A civil rights lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and file the proper paperwork on time. For help with your case, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

Sources

Contact The Orlow Firm for a Free Consultation on Monell Claims in NYC

What Are Monell Claims and When Can a Municipality Be Sued for Civil Rights Violations?
If you believe your civil rights were violated by a New York City agency such as the NYPD, Department of Corrections, or another municipal body, The Orlow Firm is here to help. You may have what's known as a Monell claim. These types of cases allow individuals to hold a city or its agencies legally responsible for civil rights violations under certain conditions. Monell claims can be complex. Unlike typical personal injury cases, you need to prove that the violation was caused by an official policy, pattern, or failure by the city or agency involved. This can include:
  • Unlawful practices by police officers that the department routinely ignores or fails to correct.
  • Lack of proper training for staff, leading to repeated civil rights abuses.
  • Failure to investigate complaints of misconduct, allowing abusive behavior to continue.
At The Orlow Firm, we work with clients throughout New York City who have suffered serious harm due to unconstitutional actions by city agencies. Our attorneys will listen to your story, explain your legal options, and advise whether a Monell lawsuit may be possible in your case. We understand these situations are often deeply emotional and stressful. You may be dealing with trauma, loss, or fear. We take the time to guide you with compassion, explaining each step in simple terms so you’re never left in the dark. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation where you can share your concerns and get honest feedback about your potential Monell claim. During this call or meeting, we can review:
  • What happened to you or your loved one
  • Which agency or employees were involved
  • What policies or patterns may have contributed to the harm
  • What evidence may be available to support your case
To speak with a lawyer about your situation, call The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398. We serve clients across all boroughs of New York City and are committed to helping you seek justice.

The Following People Contributed to This Page

Loyda Gomez
Written byParalegal & Office ManagerB.A.Sc., Political Science & Government, John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY), 22+ years at The Orlow Firm, Bilingual: English and Spanish

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Our Locations

We offer free initial consultations and operate four offices across New York City for your convenience. We can go to you if you cannot come to us.

Queens Office (Main)

71-18 Main Street
Queens, NY 11367 Map

(646) 647-3398

Fax: 718-544-6485

Manhattan Office

(By appointment only)

405 Lexington Ave, 26th Floor
New York, NY 10174 Map

(646) 647-3398

Fax: 718-544-6485

Brooklyn Office

(By appointment only)

32 Court Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201 Map

(646) 647-3398

Fax: 718-544-6485

Bronx Office

(By appointment only)

903 Sheridan Avenue, 2nd Floor
Bronx, NY 10453 Map

(646) 647-3398

Fax: 718-544-6485

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Notice: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The Orlow Firm works on a contingent fee basis. A contingent basis means that our attorneys do not charge by consultation but will take a percentage on the amount recovered. This amount is usually one third of the net recovery after disbursement. This means that the cost of hiring The Orlow Firm varies based on the amount recovered.

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