Police Misconduct
The sole responsibility of law enforcement is to protect and serve, but as many viral videos have uncovered, police officers often act outside the law to pursue an initiative. This often leads to individuals suffering severe injuries and not knowing how to handle the issue. A belief shared by many is that the only remedy for police misconduct is in criminal court. However, you also have the right to pursue damages in civil court. Law enforcement officers have the duty of upholding the law and when their negligence results in the injury or even death of a civilian, officers and their superiors can be held liable.
Winning a court case against the Fort Lauderdale Police Department is no simple task, which is why it is crucial that you secure experienced legal representation. The Fort Lauderdale police misconduct lawyers at Salpeter Gitkin, LLP are seasoned personal injury lawyers with experience filing claims against large corporations. We believe that no one is above the law and everyone should be held responsible for their actions. Bring your concerns to us, and we can make you aware of your legal options.
Types of Police Misconduct Cases
Police misconduct is an act that can take many forms as it encompasses all unjust behaviors. With law enforcement officers being in a position of authority, there are numerous situations where they can abuse their power at the expense of another individual. Some of the most common instances include:
- False arrests
- Excessive force
- Sexual abuse
- Jail neglect and abuse
- Car accidents involving police cars
- Police brutality
- Wrongful death
You don’t have to be in police custody at the time of your injury to bring forth a civil case against law enforcement. The only relevant factor is that a police officer was the source of your injury. In such instances, you can pursue compensation for a variety of damages with the help of a knowledgeable attorney. However, before seeking legal counsel, you should first take the appropriate actions to strengthen your case.
How to Hold Law Enforcement Accountable
When considering the possibility of filing a civil claim against a law enforcement department or a specific officer, you want to present a case that’s irrefutable. The moment to start building your case is immediately after the unjust act occurs. Once you feel as if a police officer has violated your rights, be sure to do the following:
- Stop and jot down exactly what transpired to the best of your memory.
- Locate witnesses and collect their names and contact information.
- Hold on to any evidence that may help prove your case like bloody or torn clothing
- Take pictures of your injuries
The final and most crucial step is for you to get in contact with a personal injury attorney with experience handling police misconduct cases.
Fort Lauderdale Police Misconduct Lawyers
The Fort Lauderdale police misconduct lawyers at Salpeter Gitkin, LLP are passionate and seasoned attorneys dedicated to protecting the rights of the injured. With decades of combined experience recovering millions of dollars in compensation for clients, we thoroughly understand what goes into filing a successful civil claim. Don’t assume that law enforcement officers are untouchable. Contact us today at (954) 467-8622 for a free case evaluation.
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