Police officers and correctional officers who engage in brutality or other misconduct can be held accountable through a personal injury lawsuit. Unfortunately, police brutality and excessive force remain significant problems in New York. In some cases, police officers target law-abiding citizens for illegal reasons.
We Provide Aggressive Advocate for Police Brutality Victims in New York
You may be entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured or your loved one has been killed due to police misconduct. Michael LoGiudice, LLP, has significant experience representing plaintiffs who’ve been the victims of misconduct by a police officer or correction officer. Reach out to Michael LoGiudice, LLP today to schedule a confidential and free consultation with a police brutality attorney and learn more about pursuing a civil rights lawsuit.
Examples of Police Brutality and Misconduct
Law enforcement officers have a legal responsibility to use discretion when they carry out their duties. They can use force when it is justified to protect themselves or others. However, when police officers use force beyond legal limits, their actions can be considered police brutality. Police brutality happens when police officers use unjustified, excessive, or illegal force against civilians. Examples of police brutality include the following:
- Beatings
- Torture
- Sexual abuse and misconduct
- Intimidation
- Police harassment
- Denial of medical care
- Indiscriminate use of riot control measures
- Racial discrimination
- Malicious prosecution
- False arrests
When police officers use excessive force when arresting a civilian or trying to quell a riot, they can cause serious injuries. The use of excessive force by a police officer is a violation of the citizen’s constitutional rights. It’s also a violation of New York, federal law, and police department regulations. Pursuing a lawsuit against the police officer and their police department for excessive force and other violations holds officers accountable and prevent them from hurting more innocent citizens in the future.
Bringing a Lawsuit Against a Police Department in New York
The process for filing a lawsuit against the police department differs from other types of lawsuits. You will need to take the right steps at the right time, or you could risk your claim being dismissed. Attorney Michael LoGiudice has an in-depth understanding of what it takes to hold the responsible New York police department accountable. He can help you understand your rights and guide you through every step of the process, keeping you up-to-date so you can make informed decisions about your case. After you file a notice of claim, you will be able to file a complaint in court stating the specific violations that caused your injuries.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Bringing a personal injury claim against a government agency or municipality comes with some unique requirements. Victims of misconduct by public employees only have 90 days after the injury occurred to file a Notice of Claim against the responsible municipality. Victims who file a federal claim may have a more extended deadline, but it’s crucial that you discuss your case with an attorney in case the shorter deadline applies to you.
If you miss this deadline, you could lose your opportunity to recover compensation for your injuries or your loved one’s death. We recommend reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible, so you don’t lose your opportunity to obtain justice for your injuries.
Corrections Officer Abuse and Misconduct
Corrections officers at Rikers Island and other detention centers have a duty to treat inmates in a way that keeps them reasonably safe. They are also legally responsible for maintaining the prison system and facilities safe. Correctional officers frequently face violent situations and must use force to stop them. However, some correctional officers abuse their legal authority and use excessive force against inmates or sexually assault them, causing serious injuries. Unfortunately, many New York prisoners have been the victims of unwarranted hitting, beating, kicking, and sexual assault while they are inmates.
When these abusive situations happen in New York correctional facilities, victims may be entitled to compensation through a civil rights lawsuit. Many inmates do not have the financial resources to pursue justice and compensation after being injured. However, they have the right to bring a personal injury lawsuit against the city or other municipality. A court will determine whether the correctional facility employee acted lawfully and will make a decision based on the facts of the case.
Compensation Available When Suing a Police or Corrections Department
Attorney Michael LoGiudice understands that many prisoners are concerned about how they will pay for a lawsuit against the correctional facility while in prison. He takes civil rights cases on commission, meaning you will not have to pay any legal expenses until he obtains compensation on your behalf.
At that point, he will receive payment by obtaining a percentage of your financial recovery. What happens if an abusive prison guard has seriously injured you or your loved one? It’s crucial that you reach out to an attorney as soon as possible so you don’t miss your opportunity to obtain the compensation you deserve.
Victims of police misconduct and correctional facility misconduct can pursue economic and non-economic damages for their injuries. The specific damages to which you may be entitled will depend on the facts of your case. Generally, the following types of damages are available in a civil rights lawsuit:
- Humiliation
- Mental anguish
- Loss of future earnings
- Lost wages
- Past and future medical expenses
- Attorney’s fees and costs
- Punitive damages
Reach Out to a Civil Rights Attorney in New York
Michael LoGiudice, LLP has a proven track record of successfully pursuing personal injury claims against New York correctional facilities and police departments. These cases can be difficult to prove, and the government has an unfair advantage over victims. However, attorney Michael LoGiudice has the experience and skills to level the playing field and advocate assertively for his clients. Contact Michael LoGiudice, LLP today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how he can fight for your rights.