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Pro Se 15

Complaint for Violation of Civil Rights (Non-Prisoner)

Federal · United States Courts · Effective December 1, 2016

This form is used to start a lawsuit in federal court when someone believes their civil rights have been violated by a person or government agency. It asks the filer to list the people being sued, explain the legal basis for the lawsuit, and describe the facts of the alleged violation.

Open the official PDFfrom United States Courts

Where this fits in a case

Start a case

Stage: Start a case

This form is used by a person who is not represented by a lawyer to file a complaint in the United States District Court alleging a violation of civil rights.

Usually filed by the person starting the case.

Common questions

Who should fill out this form?
This form is for a 'Pro Se' filer, meaning someone representing themselves without a lawyer. It is titled 'Complaint for Violation of Civil Rights (Non–Prisoner).'
What must accompany this form to be filed?
To file this complaint, it must be accompanied by the filing fee or an application to proceed in forma pauperis.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect December 1, 2016.

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