The Rhodes Law Firm Launches Civil Rights & Pro Bono Practice to Combat Federal Constitutional Violations

New Orleans, LA — The Rhodes Law Firm, LLC, a leading New Orleans-based litigation firm founded by attorney Jonathan M. Rhodes, today announced the official launch of its Civil Rights and Pro Bono Practice Group, dedicated to defending individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies — including ICE, DHS, and other federal authorities.

The new practice officially launches Monday, October 13, 2025, and will focus on cases involving unlawful detentions, excessive force, illegal searches, and other civil rights abuses. The Rhodes Law Firm will offer both full-service civil rights representation and pro bono assistance to qualifying clients.

“If you or someone you know has been impacted by local, state, or federal law enforcement actions, call The Rhodes Law Firm at 504-475-0975 or visit therhodeslawfirm.com,” said Managing Attorney Jonathan M. Rhodes.

Firm’s Founder Speaks Out on Systemic Violations

“The Civil Rights and Pro Bono practice group was created in response to the egregious violations of constitutional rights being perpetrated by federal agents against the people of the United States,” said Rhodes. “The Fourth Amendment clearly protects the right of the people to be safe from unreasonable searches and seizures. Yet, we are witnessing daily, in cities across this nation, blatant violations of that fundamental right by federal agents.”

Rhodes has long been a leader in Louisiana’s access to justice and civil rights community. During his tenure at the Louisiana State Bar Association Access to Justice Program, he founded Louisiana’s first Self-Help Desks for family law and domestic violence in New Orleans — a program now expanded statewide and providing thousands of people with free legal resources each year.

Recent Landmark Civil Rights Victory: Parker v. Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections

The firm’s launch follows a major civil rights victory in the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Rhodes and his team successfully defended a critical ruling in Robert Parker v. Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, et al., where the court held that the Secretary of Corrections was not entitled to Qualified Immunity after unlawfully detaining Mr. Parker for nearly a year beyond his release date.

The Fifth Circuit’s decision set an important precedent: government officials who show “deliberate indifference” to citizens’ rights can no longer hide behind Qualified Immunity. “This case reaffirms that the government can and must be held accountable when it violates clearly established constitutional rights,” said Rhodes.

Expanding the Fight: Civil Rights and Federal Accountability

Building on the Parker precedent, The Rhodes Law Firm will now turn its focus toward holding federal agencies — including ICE and DHS — accountable for unconstitutional searches, detentions, and deportation practices that violate the Fourth Amendment and Due Process Clause.

“Qualified Immunity will be crucial in these ICE and DHS cases going forward,” said Rhodes. “These agents act as if they are above the law. But immunity is qualified, not absolute. If a federal agent violates a clearly established constitutional right, they are not shielded from suit. These agents may wear masks to hide their faces — but they cannot hide from the law.”

For Those Seeking Legal Assistance

Hablamos Español. The Rhodes Law Firm offers consultations in both English and Spanish. All calls and consultations are strictly confidential. Your information will never be shared with law enforcement or any third party without your express consent.

About The Rhodes Law Firm, LLC

Founded by Jonathan M. Rhodes, The Rhodes Law Firm, LLC represents clients across Louisiana and nationally in matters involving civil rights, criminal justice reform, real estate, business, and complex civil litigation. With offices in New Orleans, the firm combines a deep commitment to constitutional justice with the tenacity and precision of modern trial advocacy.

The Rhodes Law Firm, LLCCivil Rights & Pro Bono Practice Launch: October 13, 2025Phone: 504-475-0975Web: therhodeslawfirm.comEmail: info@therhodeslawfirm.com

Media Contact:The Rhodes Law Firm, LLCAttn: Media RelationsEmail: info@therhodeslawfirm.com

Phone: 504-475-0975