Police brutality is nothing new. It has become more widely discussed with the rising popularity of social media. Police protect and serve the public and community, but they can end up being the biggest criminals on the block. This is a controversial topic for some but those personally affected by police brutality; it goes deeper than politics.
In recent years, this infamous trend has come to the forefront, whether it be the case of Elijah McClain, a young man who was walking home to his apartment when officers attacked him, or the case of Frank Ordonez, who was the UPS driver that was shot and killed on live television by police officers.
In these cases, the consequences were more than an injury as a result of police brutality; it was a death sentence for going about your day. Although these stories made national news, many cases do not. If you have suffered an injury due to police brutality, you will need the help of an NJ injury lawyer.
The Laws
In the simplest of terms, police brutality is when an officer uses excessive force on a person. It can also be when there was unwarranted harm caused by law enforcement to another person. There are laws to protect civilians. But, sadly without an NJ injury lawyer on your side, your case may never receive proper attention. If you have an injury as a result of police brutality, several federal laws can come into play, such as:
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Title 6 of the civil rights Act
- Title 18 of the United States Code
Depending on the circumstances of your case, these laws might come into play.
Criminal vs. Civil Cases
When it comes to bringing a case of police brutality to the courts by an NJ injury lawyer, there are several things to consider. The first is whether it will be a criminal or civil case. Depending on the classification, the cases will be handled differently. Criminal cases will involve the DOJ bringing a case against a person, while it is brought against a government entity or law enforcement agency in a civil case.
Meeting with an NJ injury lawyer to discuss your options will be necessary as these cases are often very complex and tedious. The bottom line is that you or your loved one have suffered an injury due to police brutality, and the person responsible should be held liable.
Injury as a Result of Police Brutality
Due to the brute force and differences in authority, injury resulting from police brutality can often be life-altering. You may become disabled or be in recovery for years due to the negligence and overt abuse of power. Your life should not permanently alter because of an ill-trained officer or has a racial bias.
Contact an NJ Injury Lawyer Today
If you have sustained an injury due to police brutality, you must seek legal guidance immediately. Call The Law Offices of James C. DeZao, P.A. at (973) 358-6134 today to schedule a consultation. Our personal injury attorneys can examine your case, speak to witnesses, collect evidence, and provide you with an honest evaluation of your case.