What type of lawsuit is mentioned for seeking money damages and/or declaratory relief in prison cases?

A Section 1983 lawsuit is the correct type of lawsuit mentioned for seeking money damages and/or declaratory relief in prison cases. This statute, originating from the Civil Rights Act of 1871, allows individuals to sue for civil rights violations when government officials, including prison personnel, act under the color of state law to deprive a person of rights guaranteed by the Constitution or federal law. In the context of prisons, inmates can use Section 1983 to address various grievances, such as excessive force, denial of medical care, or violations of due process, thus paving the way for potential monetary compensation or a court order to change harmful practices.

The other options represent different legal frameworks that are not primarily tailored for the types of cases typically brought by inmates in correctional settings. Title IX focuses on preventing sex-based discrimination in education programs and activities, making it less relevant to prison conditions. Federal Tort claims relate to personal injury or property loss claims against the federal government, which doesn’t extend to constitutional violations in the same manner as Section 1983. Title 18 primarily governs federal criminal law, not civil rights claims. Therefore, Section 1983 stands as the most applicable and relevant statute for inmates seeking legal redress in prison cases.