First, you generally have two years from the date of the arrest to file a civil rights false arrest case in federal court. Were you arrested under false pretenses?Our Chicago civil rights attorney has the extensive experience required to fight for your civil rights. In Illinois, false accusations can lead to various charges, such as filing a false police report, perjury, or even criminal defamation in some cases. If the arrest is illegal, you are entitled to bring a lawsuit against the law enforcement officer for false arrest. (3) A peace officer who executes a warrant of arrest in good faith beyond the geographical limitation of the warrant shall not be liable for false arrest. You can file a lawsuit in either federal or state court depending on the factual issues. A Section 1983 lawsuit addresses excessive force and wrongful arrest. You have the right to remain silent if police try to question you about a crime. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.