All forms
Civil RightspdfFederal
Prisoner Civil Rights Complaint (42 U.S.C. 1983)
Civil rights complaint filed by an incarcerated person alleging constitutional violations by prison officials, such as cruel and unusual punishment or denial of medical care.
PDF TemplateUse the instructions below to complete this form
Instructions
Exhaust all available administrative remedies (grievance procedures) before filing suit, as required by the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA). Use the court's prisoner complaint form if available. Allege specific facts showing deliberate indifference to a serious medical need (Eighth Amendment) or other constitutional violations. Name individual defendants and describe their personal involvement. You may request in forma pauperis status if indigent. The court will screen the complaint under 28 U.S.C. 1915A and may dismiss frivolous claims.