Civil Rights and Police Abuse Attorneys
The Cochran Firm has built and maintained its reputation as a leading Civil Rights law firm by successfully representing hundreds of people who were injured and/or killed by police. Our civil rights and police misconduct attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for victims of excessive force, wrongful death, false arrest, and other constitutional violations.
Our founder, Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr., and his partners have successfully represented people all over the country. Whether in New York, Abner Louima (9 Million dollars), Andre Smith (6.4 Million dollars), Ohio, Tarika Wilson (2.5 Million dollars), Atlanta, Los Angeles, Mississippi, Harvey Hill (Confidential Settlement), or elsewhere across the country, The Cochran Firm has fought for and obtained justice on behalf of police shooting victims, beating victims, false arrest victims and those who have been wrongfully convicted.
Helping victims like Geronimo Pratt, the wrongfully convicted Black Panther Party leader who was freed by Johnnie’s work in 1997 after having served 27 years in prison, the Cochran Firm has maintained its leading role in the civil rights arena for more than 50 years. Our attorneys handle complex civil rights lawsuits involving violations of the Fourth, Fifth, Eighth, and Fourteenth Amendments, including unlawful searches, excessive force, and denial of due process.
If you have been mistreated or wronged, please call The Cochran Firm. We will fight for you!
What Are Civil Rights and Police Misconduct?
Civil Rights are protections that are created by law to shield individuals from discrimination, excessive force, unlawful arrest, suppression of speech, and the violations of other freedoms. They are meant to ensure that individuals receive equal treatment under the law and that they are protected from illegal government actions.
In police misconduct cases, civil rights violations often occur when law enforcement officers abuse their authority or act under color of law to deprive someone of rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
Civil Rights apply to a wide range of issues, including police misconduct, employment discrimination, fair housing, voting rights, and many other topics.
Civil rights provide protections for not only our African-American brothers and sisters, but for every person, no matter their race, creed, nationality, or religion, who has been victimized by police misconduct, wrongfully convicted, unfairly treated at work, or in any other arena where there has been a violation of a person's rights. If you feel you have ever been discriminated against on the basis of your unique identity at work, sexually harassed, or faced a hostile environment based on race, gender, religion, age, or other characteristic, give us a call.
The Cochran Firm is here to obtain justice for you and/or your loved ones.
Types of Police Misconduct and Civil Rights Violations
Police misconduct can take many forms, and understanding these categories can help victims recognize when their rights have been violated. The Cochran Firm represents clients in cases involving:
- Police shootings and wrongful death
- Excessive force and police brutality
- False arrest and unlawful detention
- Illegal searches and seizures
- Racial profiling and discrimination
- Jail neglect, abuse, or denial of medical care
- Wrongful convictions and malicious prosecution
These claims are often pursued under federal civil rights laws such as 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which allows victims to seek compensation when government officials violate constitutional rights.
Civil Rights and Police Encounters
Police brutality has been exposed now more than ever, thanks to cameras that have been used to capture police/civilian encounters. While many officers perform their duties lawfully, even one instance of misconduct can lead to serious injury, wrongful death, or long-term harm, making it essential to understand your legal rights during any police interaction.
Police have an incredibly difficult job, and many, if not most, act in a lawful manner. However, there are also some who abuse their power. When interacting with police, try to survive the encounter by following these steps:
- Be respectful – do not use hostile or antagonizing language, even if you believe you are justified in doing so
- Calmly document – record your interaction with the police and let them know that this will be turned over to your attorney
- Remain silent if required – if you feel you are being unfairly questioned or led to incrimination, calmly inform the officer you will be happy to answer questions with an attorney present
- Call Cochran – After any incident, call us for free, and we will help: 1-800-THE-FIRM
Taking these steps can help preserve critical evidence and strengthen a potential civil rights claim.
Civil Rights Attorneys for Police Misconduct
Our attorneys continue the legacy our founder, Johnnie Cochran, left behind by fighting for the victims of police misconduct and discrimination.
We have been fighting in the Civil Rights arena for more than 50 years.
The Cochran Firm’s work has led to:
- Policy reforms
- Release of the wrongfully imprisoned
- Changing of state flags
- Justice for the families of loved ones lost to hate crimes
- The recovery of Hundreds of Millions of Dollars for our Clients
Our attorneys are in the courtroom every day, fighting for the rights of individuals like you. To see the latest from our attorneys in their pursuit of equal justice, see our results.
If you or a loved one has experienced police misconduct, civil rights violations, or abuse of authority, do not wait to seek legal help. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with The Cochran Firm today. Our experienced civil rights attorneys are ready to protect your rights, investigate your case, and pursue the compensation and accountability you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to sue a police officer?
Most civil rights attorneys handle police misconduct cases on a contingency fee basis. This means there are typically no upfront costs, and legal fees are only collected if compensation is recovered. This structure allows victims to pursue justice regardless of their financial situation and ensures the attorney is invested in the outcome of the case.
What is the most common civil rights violation?
One of the most common civil rights violations involving police is excessive use of force. This occurs when an officer uses more force than reasonably necessary under the circumstances. Other frequent violations include false arrest, unlawful detention, and illegal searches, all of which can form the basis of a civil rights claim.
What is the most common way lawsuits against police officers are resolved?
Many civil rights lawsuits against police officers are resolved through settlements before trial. Settlements can provide compensation more quickly and avoid the uncertainty of a jury verdict. However, some cases proceed to court when a fair settlement cannot be reached or when broader accountability is necessary.
How do you prove a police misconduct case?
Proving a police misconduct case typically requires strong evidence such as body camera footage, surveillance video, witness statements, medical records, and police reports. An experienced civil rights attorney will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and may work with experts to demonstrate how the officer’s actions violated constitutional rights.
How long do you have to file a civil rights lawsuit?
The time limit to file a civil rights lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state but is often between one and three years. Acting quickly is important because missing the deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. Consulting a civil rights lawyer as soon as possible helps protect your rights.
What compensation can you recover in a civil rights case?
Victims of civil rights violations may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to hold the responsible party accountable and deter future misconduct.
