Litigation

Direct Litigation

HRLF represents victims of human rights abuses in U.S. courts around the country under a variety of statutes, including the Alien Tort Statute, Torture Victim Protection Act, and state civil rights laws.  These cases seek to hold the perpetrators to account and to obtain remedies to repair the harm caused.

Criminal Petitions

Perpetrators of human rights abuses often commit violations of criminal laws, whether those of a particular country or under international criminal law.  Where appropriate to advance accountability, HRLF encourages relevant authorities to investigate international crimes.

Global Legal Assistance

The fight for human rights is a collective endeavor across the globe, particularly where the perpetrators of abuses are powerful actors.  HRLF offers assistance to those working on accountability efforts in foreign countries and at international bodies.