New York, NY - Two years after the massive George Floyd protests that rocked the Big Apple, NYPD has not taken enough steps to prevent police brutality cases. The only way to put an end to it is for every victim of police misconduct to step forward, file a complaint, and go public with their case. If you were a victim of excessive force or other types of misconduct, you have the right to be compensated for your damages. Seasoned New York police brutality lawyers can help with the legal stuff. However, this is not just about money. Every abuse you report may mean that a violent police officer will be off the streets and won’t do the same things to someone else. Also, his colleagues may learn a valuable lesson and refrain from hurting innocent civilians.
To file a complaint, there are certain steps you need to take.
See a doctor right away
If you were tasered, punched, or kicked to the ground, you want all your injuries well-documented. Law enforcement agents do have the right to use a certain amount of force, but only when it’s strictly necessary and they’re dealing with a violent suspect.
Make a list of witnesses
If it’s your word against that of a police officer, you don’t stand a chance, You need evidence. Make a list of all those who witnessed the incident. Get their name and contact info as your lawyers will want to get their testimony. Also, if anyone recorded the whole thing, make sure to get that video.
Get a lawyer
Alone, you’re no match for a police department that will close ranks around the officer you accuse of misconduct. You need experienced New York police brutality lawyers working on your case as soon as possible.
As a first thing, your lawyers will request access to the body cam footage. This is often the most important piece of evidence in a police brutality case. Also, your attorneys will visit the area and look for surveillance cameras that may have captured the incident. Keep in mind that most businesses preserve such tapes for only a short time. If your lawyers aren’t out there fast, important evidence may be lost.
At the same time, your police brutality lawyers will want to see the officer’s record. Maybe he’s been accused of similar things in the past, which shows that your case is not an isolated incident. It also puts the department under the spotlight. The department chief should have known that the officer had a problem. If they chose not to take any steps, the whole department should be held accountable for your damages.
Keep track of deadlines
If you want to file a police brutality lawsuit, you have two years from the date of the incident. However, there’s one small detail. To sue a police department or the City of New York you must file a Notice to Sue within 90 days of the incident. If you don’t do that, your lawsuit may be dismissed.
Know your rights
Your lawyers will tell you how much your claim is worth. You should never file a lawsuit without knowing how much money you should ask for damages. You are entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages, as well as for your pain and suffering, including your humiliation and loss of reputation.
