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Police Abuse

Police abuse undermines public trust and can have lasting, traumatic effects on victims. Our experienced attorneys are committed to holding law enforcement accountable

Why You Need a Police Abuse Lawyer?

Police abuse cases are often complex and challenging, as law enforcement officers and their departments are typically protected by qualified immunity—a legal doctrine that shields government officials from personal liability for actions

Police Misconduct

Proving that police officers acted unlawfully requires substantial evidence, including witness statements, video footage, and police reports.

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Qualified Immunity

Qualified immunity can be a significant hurdle in police abuse cases, but it is not absolute. If your lawyer can demonstrate that the officer violated

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Handling Agencies

Suing law enforcement agencies or government entities can be intimidating. Your lawyer will be experienced in dealing with these powerful institutions

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Accountability

Police abuse can lead to serious physical and emotional injuries, as well as financial losses. Your lawyer will help you pursue compensation for medical bills

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Our Commitment to You

Types of Compensation

Common Types of Police Abuse

Police abuse can take many forms, from excessive physical force to unlawful detentions. Some of the most common types of police abuse include

Excessive Use of Force

Police officers are permitted to use reasonable force when making an arrest or protecting public safety, but when they use more force than necessary, it becomes excessive.

Wrongful Arrest and False Imprisonment

A wrongful arrest occurs when law enforcement officers arrest someone without probable cause or a valid warrant. Being wrongfully detained can lead to loss of freedom

Deaths in Custody

Law enforcement officers have a duty to provide care and protect the lives of those in their custody. In some cases, detainees may suffer injuries or death due to neglect, excessive force

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of police abuse can pursue compensation for various types of damages, depending on the severity of their injuries and the impact of the abuse on their lives.

Medical Expenses

Compensation for medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatment related to physical injuries caused by police abuse.

Lost Wages

If the abuse resulted in missed work or a loss of employment, victims can seek compensation for lost wages and lost earning potential.

Pain and Suffering

Police abuse often results in significant physical pain and emotional trauma. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts

Wrongful Death

In cases where police abuse results in death, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim.

Essential Steps to Take After Police Abuse

Filing a police abuse claim involves navigating complex legal processes and adhering to strict deadlines.

Complaint with the Police Department

Before filing a lawsuit, victims of police abuse may choose to file a complaint with the police department’s internal affairs division.

Filing a Section 1983 Lawsuit

Section 1983 allows individuals to file lawsuits against law enforcement officers or government officials for violating their constitutional rights.

Gathering Evidence

Proving police misconduct requires substantial evidence. This may include video footage (such as body camera or dashcam footage), witness statements

Overcoming Qualified Immunity

Police officers often invoke qualified immunity, a defense that protects them from liability unless they violated clearly established law.

Seeking Damages

Victims of police abuse may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages. In cases involving wrongful death, surviving family members may also file a wrongful death claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about
personal injury cases and our legal services.

The time limit varies by state but is usually between one to three years from the date of the injury. It’s important to file as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines.

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability benefits, and other related costs depending on the specifics of your case.

Knapp Moss works exclusively on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and the firm takes a percentage of any settlement or award. We don’t make any money until we win your case and get you paid. 

Case duration varies depending on complexity, insurance negotiations, and court schedules. Some cases settle within months, while others may take years.

Get the Legal Support You Deserve

Contact Knapp Moss for a free consultation and let our experienced team of personal injury attorneys fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.