An arrest can happen to anyone due to mistaken identity, procedural errors, or incomplete investigations. Understanding the specific mechanics of the legal system is the first step toward restoring your liberty and, equally important, your permanent record. The...
Civil Rights
Wrongful arrest in Massachusetts: Charges dismissed – can you sue for false arrest?
An arrest in Massachusetts can upend your life in hours. Handcuffs, booking, a night in custody, missed work and public embarrassment can happen quickly but have a long-lasting impact on your life. When the case ends in a dismissal or a not guilty finding, you may...
Qualified immunity explained: Why police can be sued even when they claim immunity
Police officers should protect the peace and help uphold the law. Occasionally, law enforcement professionals fail to uphold their responsibilities to the community. They may act in ways that endanger the very people they should protect and serve. Individuals harmed...
Was This Excessive Force? How Massachusetts Law Protects Victims of Police Violence
Many people walk away from a police encounter feeling shaken, injured or confused about whether what happened was lawful. If force was used during an arrest or stop, it is common to wonder if officers crossed a line. All too often, the “line” commonly referred to as...
How Body Cameras, Dashcams and Digital Evidence Can Help Victims of Police Misconduct in Massachusetts
Police officers are agents of the state. As such, their authority is subject to certain legal limitations. Unfortunately, some law enforcement professionals do engage in misconduct that infringes on the rights of the people with whom they interact. For example,...