Reporting police misconduct can seem very difficult because the police departments are often insular, and it can seem like police officers go out of their way to protect each other. However, with the help of a police misconduct lawyer, you may be able to overcome these obstacles and successfully hold the police officer to account.
How to File a Complaint
Most police departments have a process you may follow to issue a complaint. This will usually include an online form, phone number, and mail-in form. You may want to contact the police department so that you feel like your voice is heard as you will be able to talk to a live individual.
However, contacting the police department through email can be useful because you'll be able to email the department any video or photographic evidence you have showing police misconduct. In some cases, a special team is responsible for investigating these cases.
Bolster Your Case
After the incident of police misconduct, you may find yourself incarcerated. As soon as possible, request the tools necessary to write down everything that happened so you don't forget. You may be under heavy stress due to the situation and may forget important details that would support your case.
How Police Officers Often Escape Accountability
Oftentimes, after the initial investigation, the county attorney refuses to file charges. Then, the United States Department of Justice may decide that your civil rights are not violated. Then, you may find out that the police officer will not be professionally disciplined. All of this can be maddening when you feel like your rights have been violated. For this reason, it's important to speak with a police misconduct lawyer as early on in your case as possible. These types of lawyers will fight hard for your right to receive justice.
You will especially want to consult with an attorney if you are arrested by the police. If you are not arrested, consulting with an attorney is optional but recommended. Make sure to choose an attorney who is specialized in police misconduct rather than an attorney who works in multiple areas of law.
Even if the police officer is not held accountable by the criminal justice system, you may still pursue a civil case against him or her. This is not as difficult because a civil case has a lower burden of proof than a criminal case since it is based on a preponderance of evidence.
Share18 September 2020
When it comes to fighting in court, it isn't always easy to stay strong, stable, and secure in your convictions. Fortunately, by working with a great lawyer, things become much easier. About ten years ago now, I was accused of a crime that I didn't commit, and it was really heartbreaking. I started thinking about what to do, and a friend of mine suggested working with a great lawyer. It was incredible to see how much help the lawyer was, and within a few months, I was proven innocent. This blog is here to help people who might be fighting legal battles of their own.
