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History

Qualified Immunity for Government Officials

Quick fact

Qualified immunity was originally created in 1871 to protect officials from liability for actions taken in 'good faith,' but it has evolved into a powerful shield that often protects officers even when they violate the Constitution, so long as the right wasn't 'clearly established' at the time.

Why this is interesting

You've probably heard of the police officer who wasn't held accountable because of 'qualified immunity.' But what does that actually mean? Why can officials sometimes break the law and avoid consequences?