Law enforcement officials are tasked with safeguarding and serving the public, however there are instances where they violate civil rights rather than uphold them. If you have been a victim of police wrongdoing, you may be asking how to file a lawsuit against the police department and what legal alternatives you have.
This blog will go over the most common reasons why people sue the police, with a focus on civil rights breaches such police brutality, excessive force, and malicious prosecution. We will also discuss how an experienced civil rights lawyer, such as Greg Kirakosian, may help you hold law enforcement accountable and obtain the reparations you deserve.
Reasons to Sue the Police for Civil Rights Violations
If the police violate your constitutional rights, you have the legal right to seek justice. Here are common reasons to file a lawsuit against a police department:
- Excessive Force & Police Brutality – Officers can use force when necessary, but it must be reasonable. Unjustified physical violence, wrongful use of weapons, or deadly force can lead to serious injuries, emotional trauma, or even wrongful death.
- Malicious Prosecution – If an officer or prosecutor falsely accuses you of a crime without probable cause—often due to bias or retaliation—you may be able to sue for damages, including legal costs and emotional distress.
- Unlawful Arrest & False Imprisonment – Arrests must be based on valid evidence. If you were arrested or detained without cause, your civil rights were likely violated, leading to reputational harm, financial loss, and emotional suffering.
- Racial Profiling & Discrimination – Targeting individuals based on race, ethnicity, or nationality rather than actual suspicion is a civil rights violation and can be grounds for legal action.
- Failure to Intervene – Officers must prevent misconduct by their peers. If a police officer witnesses excessive force, an illegal search, or any rights violation and does nothing, they can also be held accountable.
If you’ve experienced any of these violations, a civil rights attorney can help you fight for justice and compensation.
How Do I Sue the Police for Violating Civil Rights?
Filing a lawsuit against a police department can be complex, but an experienced civil rights attorney can help guide you through the process. If you’re asking how do I sue the police for violating civil rights, here are the steps you’ll need to take:
1. Gather Evidence
To build a strong case, it is essential to collect all possible evidence related to the incident. This includes:
- Witness statements
- Photos and videos
- Police reports
- Medical records (if injured)
- Any relevant communications with law enforcement
2. File a Complaint with Internal Affairs or a Civilian Review Board
Police officers have a responsibility to prevent their colleagues from participating in unlawful behavior. If an officer watches another cop using excessive force, executing an illegal search, or engaging in any type of misconduct and does nothing to stop it, they may face a civil lawsuit.
3. Work with an Experienced Civil Rights Lawyer
A skilled attorney, such as Greg Kirakosian, can review your case, advise you on the best legal approach, and guide you through the complex legal procedure. Civil rights disputes frequently include powerful government institutions, so having an experienced lawyer on your side can dramatically improve your chances of winning.
4. File a Lawsuit
Once your attorney has acquired enough evidence, they will file a lawsuit on your behalf. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may take this legal action under federal law (for example, a Section 1983 claim for civil rights abuses) or state law.
5. Seek Compensation
If your lawsuit is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages (to punish the responsible party and deter future misconduct)
Why Work with Greg Kirakosian?
If you’re wondering how to file a lawsuit against a police department or asking yourself, how do I sue the police for violating civil rights, working with a dedicated civil rights attorney like Greg Kirakosian is the best step forward. Taking legal action against law enforcement can be challenging, but with the right representation, justice is possible.
Kirakosian Law has a proven track record of fighting for victims of police misconduct and holding law enforcement accountable for their actions. Their legal team understands the complexities of civil rights violations and is committed to seeking justice for those who have been wronged.
Greg Kirakosian and his team will thoroughly investigate your case, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. They will collect crucial evidence, including witness statements, video footage, and police reports, to build a strong case on your behalf.
Additionally, they will challenge the police department’s defense, exposing any inconsistencies or violations of your rights. Police departments often have extensive legal resources, but Kirakosian Law is prepared to fight aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Navigating a civil rights lawsuit can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With an experienced attorney on your side, you can take a stand against police misconduct and seek justice for the harm you have suffered.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one have been the victim of police wrongdoing, it is time to take action. Please contact Kirakosian Law to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options. Holding law enforcement accountable is about more than simply getting justice for yourself; it’s about preventing future abuses and ensuring that everyone’s civil rights are safeguarded.
Don’t wait; contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward justice.