People are deeply affected when someone suffers injuries at the hands of aggressive police officers. The excessive use of force by police has the potential to result in severe injuries or even death. It’s also a major cause of long-lasting trauma for the victim, their family, and even the community.
If you’ve been hurt by a law enforcement officer, you shouldn’t have to face the police department on your own. To ensure your rights are protected, it’s necessary to have legal representation. The Minnesota civil rights trial lawyers of Madia Law understand the challenges you are facing.
We can provide you with the legal representation and support you need during this difficult time. Our police excessive force lawyers in Minnesota are here to fight for justice. We fight tooth and nail for what is right. We work to ensure you get the compensation and peace of mind you need to move forward.
What Excessive Force Means in Minnesota
Excessive force is a form of police misconduct when cops take excessive action that isn’t necessary to do their job. Some situations of excessive force might include the following:
- Unnecessary shootings
- Hitting, punching, kicking
- Misusing Tasers or batons
- Using holds that make it hard to breathe
- Ziptie restraints that are improperly handled
- Tear gas
All of the above actions may be justifiable. It all depends on the context and how much force was used. Even though police have the right to use force in the course of doing their jobs safely, going overboard breaks the law and your rights.
For a legal consultation with a excessive force lawyer serving Minnesota, call 612-349-2729
When does “Force” Cross the Line?
Figuring out when force turns into “too much force” isn’t clear-cut. Courts look at things like:
- How serious was the crime?
- Did the person pose a significant threat?
- Was the person trying to get away or fighting arrest?
The use of excessive force can be determined by a number of factors. Typically, no single act can easily be defined as such. A Minnesota police excessive force attorney can examine the details of your situation and help you decide if you have legal grounds for a claim.
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Minnesota Excessive Force Cases that Made the News
The tragic death of George Floyd sparked a global conversation on the dangers of using excessive force. Philando Castile and Jamar Clark are two more of the names associated with excessive police force in Minnesota.
Laws prohibiting racial profiling have not stopped this from happening. Such events send shockwaves through our societies. They cause people to protest and demand that the police reform their methods, but change takes time, and these problems still exist.
The pain and shattered trust these incidents have caused demand immediate action. Bringing your situation to a Minnesota lawyer with experience in police brutality cases can aid in bringing about change and help you achieve closure to move on.
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Your Rights Against Excessive Police Force
As a citizen, you have protections against unjust treatment. The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects citizens against “unreasonable seizures,” which means that law enforcement cannot use unnecessary force against anyone.
Police brutality victims in Minnesota can also seek protection under state law. The Minnesota Human Rights Act is one such law that prohibits discrimination by law enforcement against certain groups.
There are very specific circumstances when the use of deadly force is allowed by law enforcement. Sadly, in too many cases, these laws have been ignored. If your loved one was killed by an officer and have questions, a lawyer can help you. For more information, Minnesota statute 609.066 defines the authorized use of deadly force by police officers.
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How an Attorney Can Help You Seek Justice and Compensation
In any police excessive force situation, we investigate thoroughly to find the truth. To build a solid case for you, we review recordings, medical data, and the testimony of witnesses.
We will vigorously represent you in court, demonstrating the injustice of the situation and why you deserve to be compensated.
Some of the compensatory damages we may seek on your behalf include:
Here are some of the common types of damages that can be recovered in a police excessive force claim in Minnesota:
- Medical expenses: Past and future costs for medical treatment related to injuries from the excessive force
- Lost wages: Income lost from being unable to work due to injuries
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain caused by the excessive force
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for limitations on activities of daily living due to injuries.
- Property damage: Recovery for damage to personal property during the excessive force incident.
- Attorney’s fees: May be recoverable if the plaintiff is successful in the suit.
The damages would be aimed at making the plaintiff whole from losses caused by the officer’s excessive and unreasonable use of force. Your police misconduct attorney in Minnesota will make an accurate and thorough calculation of your losses and the impact on your life to ensure you pursue the maximum compensation possible.
Contact a Minnesota Police Excessive Force Lawyer Today
The problem of excessive police force is serious. Victims are left not only with bodily wounds but also with psychological scars. You should not have to pay for your injuries and losses when you’ve been harmed by those who are meant to protect you.
When it comes to cases involving police misconduct or excessive force, our track record speaks for itself. The personal injury attorneys of Madia Law are prepared to fight for you to ensure that your rights are respected, and your voice is heard.
By speaking out against the use of excessive force, we can move toward a more equitable Minnesota. Contact us today and begin your quest for justice.
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