One of the most painful and stressful situations a person may go through is being arrested, particularly if it occurs for no apparent reason. You might be wondering if you can file a wrongful arrest lawsuit if you or someone you care about was detained without cause. The answer is yes, and you should. This blog post will explain what a wrongful arrest is, your legal rights, and how Greg Kirakosian, an attorney, may assist you in holding the wrongdoers accountable.
What Is a Wrongful Arrest?
When a law enforcement official detains someone without probable cause or a proper warrant, it is known as a wrongful arrest, unlawful arrest, or false arrest. To put it another way, before they can take you into custody, the police must have a good, solid basis to think you committed a crime. Your constitutional rights might be violated if they don’t.
Some common examples of wrongful arrest include:
- Being arrested based solely on race, ethnicity, or appearance (racial profiling)
- Being detained for a crime you did not commit with no evidence
- Arrest without a warrant in situations where one is required
- Arrest based on fabricated evidence or false testimony
- Being held after your charges have been dropped or dismissed
It’s important to understand that even if the officer thought they were doing their job, it doesn’t excuse an unlawful arrest. The law requires a higher standard—one based on facts, not assumptions.
Why a Wrongful Arrest Violates Civil Rights
Every citizen is protected from unauthorized search and seizure by the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. That protection is directly violated in an unlawful arrest. The Fourteenth Amendment also guarantees you the right to due process, which includes the defense against being stripped of your freedom without a fair and lawful procedure.
You have the legal right to file a civil case when these rights are infringed. In addition to providing you with the opportunity to pursue justice, holding law enforcement responsible also helps shield others from experiencing the same mistreatment.
Can You Sue for Wrongful Arrest? Absolutely.
If you’ve been wrongfully arrested, you can file a civil rights lawsuit against the police department or individual officers involved. A successful lawsuit can provide monetary compensation for:
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Lost wages or employment opportunities
- Damage to your reputation
- Legal fees and expenses
- Physical injuries (if excessive force was used)
- Punitive damages in extreme cases
It’s important to act quickly. Civil rights lawsuits have strict filing deadlines, known as statutes of limitations. Waiting too long could limit your ability to take action, no matter how strong your case is.
Why You Need a Civil Rights Lawyer
Cases of wrongful arrest are complicated. Municipalities and police departments frequently have legal teams prepared to vigorously contest claims. Working with a knowledgeable civil rights lawyer who isn’t scared to question the system is crucial because of this. Greg Kirakosian is that lawyer
Our areas of expertise at Kirakosian Law are human rights abuses, police misconduct, and unjust arrests. Greg has fought for years on behalf of those whose rights were violated by those in positions of authority. He is aware of what it takes to present a compelling argument, acquire supporting documentation, and challenge the legal protections that police frequently invoke, such as qualified immunity.
What sets Greg Kirakosian apart is not just his legal knowledge—it’s his commitment to people. He treats every client with compassion and respect, because he understands that being wrongfully arrested isn’t just a legal issue—it’s a deeply personal one. You deserve to have your story heard, your rights defended, and your life restored.
How the Process Works
If you suspect you were wrongfully arrested, here’s what to expect when working with Greg Kirakosian:
- Initial Consultation – You’ll speak directly with Greg or a member of his team about your experience. We’ll review any available documents (like police reports or video footage) and determine if you have a viable case.
- Investigation – We’ll gather all necessary evidence to support your claim, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and arrest records. If needed, we’ll consult with experts to reconstruct events.
- Filing a Lawsuit – Once we’ve built your case, we’ll file a civil rights lawsuit on your behalf. This can be against the arresting officer, the police department, or even the city, depending on the circumstances.
- Pursuing Justice – We’ll negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement. If the other side refuses to do what’s right, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight for you in court.
Your Rights Matter—And So Does Your Justice
Being wrongfully arrested is a violation of your freedom and dignity, not just a minor inconvenience. However, you are not helpless. It’s legal for you to push back. You are entitled to ask for clarification. Additionally, you have the ability to hold law enforcement officials responsible if you have the correct lawyer.Don’t wait if you were unfairly arrested in California. To arrange a free consultation, get in touch with Kirakosian Law right now. Allow Greg Kirakosian to support you, help you navigate the court system, and help you get the recompense you are due.