When you suffer harm or someone you love is fatally injured because of police brutality, you may begin to wonder what rights you have against people of authority. Similarly, if wrongful imprisonment occurs, you may be wondering how you can get justice for the years of your life you may have lost.
No matter the situation, when law enforcement agencies violate your civil rights, you deserve the right to take legal action. There are a few factors for you to consider, though, before you take action against law enforcement or a governmental agency for your damages.
Were You Wronged?
To sue police or another agency for violating your civil rights, you must show that the action against you was not within reasonable standards of care. You can show that one of the following problems factors in your case:
- The arrest occurred with the use of excessive force
- The arrest was not warranted and wrongful
- The officer fatally hurt someone in a shooting or while in custody
Should any misconduct occur, you can speak with a lawyer about your ability to sue the officer, department, or other agency for compensation and justice. In any matter, working with an attorney helps you determine your rights and protects them throughout the process.
Were There Damages?
The point of suing police, the police department, or another agency is to obtain justice and recover compensation for damages you may experience. For instance, if you suffer an injury due to police brutality, you may be able to sue for medical expenses, income loss, pain and suffering, and more.
For police misconduct, you can pursue damages that include the following:
- Monetary compensation to reimburse you for fines, attorney’s fees, and court expenses
- Allowance for each year of your imprisonment
- Lost income from being incarcerated
- Additional costs stemming from your imprisonment
Our Cleveland civil rights lawyers at Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP are here to help you understand your options and champion your ability to pursue justice. Let our team help you through the process, and we’ll go above and beyond to protect you and your rights.
