New Mexico Security Guard Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide for Guaranteed Success

Common legal liabilities for security guards primarily include negligence, false imprisonment, and violation of civil rights.

Negligence occurs when a security guard fails to act with the level of care that a reasonable person would exercise in similar circumstances, resulting in harm to an individual or property. For example, if a guard ignores a situation that jeopardizes safety or fails to follow protocols that lead to an incident, they may be held liable for the injuries or damages resulting from their inaction.

False imprisonment arises when a security guard unlawfully restrains or detains an individual without legal justification. This can happen if a guard prevents someone from leaving a property without proper cause or authority, leading to a claim for damages by the detained individual.

Violation of civil rights pertains to actions taken by security personnel that infringe upon an individual's constitutional rights. This can include situations involving excessive force or discrimination, where the guard's actions are deemed to violate established laws designed to protect individual freedoms.

Recognizing these liabilities is crucial for security professionals to ensure they operate within legal boundaries and uphold the rights and safety of individuals they are tasked to protect. Understanding these responsibilities helps guards avoid actions that could lead to costly legal repercussions.