For individuals who have lived through police brutality, making plans for the future can seem daunting with the case still unresolved. One of the primary concerns that you may have if you have been a victim of brutality is how much you can expect to receive if you win your case. This is an important part of your financial future, and you are being diligent in trying to plan for this possibility. However, determining how much you may be awarded in a police brutality case relies on multiple factors.
How To Pursue A Police Brutality Case
In order to achieve the best possible outcome, you should consider working with an attorney who specializes in police brutality. Because police officers are subject to a concept called qualified immunity, proving guilt in a brutality case can be especially challenging. Partnering with a civil rights attorney will bolster your strategy with the expertise necessary to present a comprehensive case in court.
What Affects The Payout In A Police Brutality Case?
Every case that comes before a court is unique, and yours is no exception; the payout for success in your police brutality case will depend upon a variety of factors, not all of which are within your control. While your legal counsel can expertly craft your representation and present a comprehensive and compelling argument, police brutality payouts are determined by more than just this. The court will also consider the types and quality of evidence your attorney provides, and the geographic location of the case, jury makeup, and other courtroom considerations also play a role in the final determination.
Medical Evidence
If you have suffered physical harm at the hands of a police officer, part of the evidence packet that your attorney will present will include medical records and documentation of your injuries. The more of this evidence you can provide, the better your chances of success. If your injuries were severe enough to warrant a hospital stay or continued treatment, you may receive a higher payout that assists with the medical bills incurred when you received care.
Police Reports
A police report can give valuable insight into what occurred in your situation that may influence your payout. A report indicating that the officer responded to a simple or straightforward call with force in excess of what was necessary is a tool that your attorney can use to fight for a higher award.
Evidence Gathered From Victim
The court will also examine evidence gathered from you, the victim, after the incident occurred. This is why writing down everything you remember as soon after the event as possible is critical. Evidence that you can provide may include things such as photos, copies of text conversations or phone calls, and physical evidence such as injury reports.
Policies Of The Police Department
Police departments are in charge of their own response to a PD officer who is being accused of brutality. Some police departments will assist with the investigation, leading to further incriminating evidence coming to light in the courtroom that can result in further damages awarded to you.
Credibility Of Witnesses
One of the most important facets of a police brutality case is the witnesses who can corroborate the victim’s or police officer’s accounts. If you have access to multiple credible witnesses who support your accounting of events as you have recalled them, you present a stronger case to the court.
How Are Police Brutality Payouts Made?
If you win a police brutality case and are awarded monetary damages, the police officer will not be the one responsible for paying you the money that is owed. Instead, it is typically the officer’s employer who will make the police brutality payout. However, in some situations, such as a willful criminal violation on the part of the officer, the employer may refuse to pay on the officer’s behalf. In this situation, the city or town will be responsible for awarding you the payout that the court determined for you. This may require your attorney to win a judgment against the city in order for you to be paid.
Contact A Knowledgeable Civil Rights Attorney
If you suspect that you have been a victim of police brutality, or if you would like to discuss how much your case might be worth, it is important that you reach out to legal counsel as soon as possible after the incident. A skilled civil rights attorney can review your case to determine whether your rights have been violated. The Brown Firm would be happy to advocate on your behalf and seek the justice that you deserve in your police brutality case. Reach out to schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer.
