Police officers have authority most people never hold. When that authority is abused, the law allows the person who was harmed to hold the officers and the City accountable.
Claims We Handle
- False arrest and false imprisonment
- Excessive force
- Malicious prosecution
- Unlawful stops and searches
- Injuries in custody and denial of medical care
- Wrongful death
Two Paths, Different Deadlines
- State law claims against the City and its officers. A written notice of claim is generally due within 90 days, and the lawsuit generally must be filed within one year and 90 days.
- Federal civil rights claims. These do not require a notice of claim.
We evaluate both in every case. Missing the 90 days can eliminate the state claims even when the federal claims survive.
Mistreated by the police?
Federal civil rights claims generally must be filed within three years, but related state claims can have much shorter deadlines, some as short as 90 days. Don't wait.
If You Were Charged
Charged with a crime you didn't commit?
To bring a malicious prosecution claim, the criminal case must have ended in your favor, such as a dismissal or acquittal.
Evidence We Go After
- Body camera and precinct video
- Arrest paperwork, memo books, and radio recordings
- Medical records from the day of the arrest
- Civilian Complaint Review Board files and the officers' prior complaint history
- Witnesses and cell phone video
What You Can Recover
- Compensation for the time you lost your liberty
- Medical bills and lost wages
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Punitive damages against individual officers in the right case
- Attorney's fees on federal claims
Common Questions
The charges against me were dropped. Does that prove the arrest was illegal?
Not by itself. The question is whether the officers had probable cause at the time. A dismissal helps, and it is required for some claims.
I filed a complaint with the CCRB. Is that a notice of claim?
No. A CCRB complaint is separate and does not preserve your right to sue. The notice of claim is a specific sworn document served on the City.
Will bringing a lawsuit cause problems for me with the police?
Retaliation is unlawful. Tell us right away about any contact after you bring a claim.
Talk to a Lawyer Today
The consultation is free. There is no fee unless we win, and we advance the costs of the case. You speak with your attorney directly, not a call center.