Steps to Take After Experiencing Police Misconduct in TN

 Posted on October 14, 2024 in Criminal Defense

We trust police officers to protect us in our everyday lives. We give them the authority to use force in a just and reasonable manner, and when we call 911, we expect that the people who arrive on scene are there to help. Unfortunately, the trust we place in them can sometimes be abused, and people find themselves victimized by officers of the law.

Speaking up for your civil rights can feel like a losing battle on your own. The Baker Law Firm is here to fight alongside you as legal advocates who will not be intimidated in the face of law enforcement misconduct. Our Knoxville, TN civil rights attorneys provide passionate representation, as we work towards a just settlement for your physical and emotional damages.

What Qualifies as Misconduct?

Police misconduct can take different forms other than excessive force; it also includes incidents that occur while you are in the custody of the police. For instance, police misconduct covers abuse at the hands of another inmate in detention, or the failure of the police to provide you with medical care in jail. Other abuses of power include blackmail, wrongful arrests, and unlawful search and seizure. If you can prove that you suffered physical or emotional damages from the event, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Certain cases of police misconduct have garnered media attention and seen serious victories for the victims and their families. In 2016, the family of Sandra Bland won a wrongful death suit for $1.9 million, and in 2021, the city of Chattanooga paid out $550,000 to a survivor of sexual assault by a police officer. At the worst of times, police officers can seem above the law, and going against them in court can be intimidating. However, a civil rights attorney can bring these injustices to light and bring you closure to these traumatic abuses of power.

After the Incident

If you believe you were the victim of police misconduct, record as much information as you can about the incident. This includes the officer’s badge number if applicable, where and when the incident took place, and any witnesses to the misconduct. Furthermore, video evidence of the incident can support your account and potentially strengthen your case; body cam footage and video captured on a smartphone are both acceptable.

To move forward with a police misconduct suit, you need to file an official complaint. However, we strongly recommend consulting with an experienced civil rights lawyer who can guide you through the process and keep you informed of your options.

Speak with a Knoxville, TN Criminal Defense Lawyer

When it comes to police misconduct, the sooner you report it, the better. A Knoxville, TN civil rights attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve when your trust in the law is broken. Attorney Lance K. Baker with The Baker Law Firm is a presenter for the Tennessee Bar Association, and brings years of civil rights and constitutional law experience to every case. Call 865-200-4117 to schedule a free consultation.