Standing Up To Preserve Clients’ Civil Rights
Boston Police Misconduct Attorneys
Americans have civil rights that were put in place by the Constitution. These rights must be protected. But every day people face civil rights violations that negatively affect their lives.
The experienced trial attorneys at Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner LLP fight back on behalf of people who have had their civil rights violated. Serving the greater Boston area, all of Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, they are well prepared to achieve the best possible results in civil rights litigation.
Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner has developed a reputation for success in this area of law. Having litigated a significant number of civil rights cases, the attorneys at Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner know the strategies that seek to lead to favorable results in this complex area of law.
Lawyers at Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner LLP handle a broad spectrum of police misconduct matters, including the ones listed below:
- Police brutality/police misconduct/excessive force
- False imprisonment/false arrest
- Section 1983 actions related to discrimination
- First amendment issues of free speech and expression
- Fourth amendment issues related to unreasonable searches and seizures
- Malicious prosecution
- Employment Discrimination/Title VII
- Sexual or racial harassment in the workplace
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is police misconduct, and how does it affect individuals and communities?
A: Police misconduct refers to any behavior by law enforcement officers that violates the rights and trust of individuals and communities. This can include excessive force, false arrest, racial profiling, and other forms of abuse of power, which can lead to physical harm, emotional trauma, and erosion of trust in law enforcement.
Q: What are my rights as a citizen, and how can I protect them in interactions with police?
A: As a citizen, you have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures, to remain silent, and to be treated with dignity and respect. To protect your rights, it’s essential to remain calm, be aware of your surroundings, and know that you have the right to ask for a lawyer or to end an interaction with police if you feel uncomfortable or threatened.
Q: What is the difference between a civil rights violation and a criminal charge?
A: A civil rights violation is a violation of your constitutional rights, such as the right to be free from excessive force or unreasonable search and seizure. A criminal charge, on the other hand, is a charge of violating a specific law or statute. In cases of police misconduct, individuals may be able to bring a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for damages and to hold officers accountable, even if no criminal charges are filed.
Q: Can I file a complaint against a police officer or department if I believe I’ve been a victim of misconduct?
A: Yes, you can file a complaint against a police officer or department if you believe you’ve been a victim of misconduct. You can typically do this by contacting the police department’s internal affairs division or by filing a complaint with a civilian review board. It’s also essential to seek the advice of a qualified attorney who can help you navigate the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Q: What is 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, and how does it relate to police misconduct cases?
A: 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 is a federal law that allows individuals to bring civil lawsuits against law enforcement officers and government agencies for violating their constitutional rights. This law provides a critical tool for holding officers and agencies accountable for misconduct and for seeking compensation for damages.
Q: How do I know if I have a valid claim for police misconduct, and what are the next steps I should take?
A: If you believe you’ve been a victim of police misconduct, it’s essential to seek the advice of a qualified attorney who can evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action. Your attorney can help you gather evidence, build a strong case, and navigate the legal process to seek justice and compensation for your injuries and damages.
Q: What is qualified immunity, and how does it affect police misconduct cases?
A: Qualified immunity is a doctrine that protects law enforcement officers from liability for damages unless they have violated a clearly established constitutional or statutory right. In police misconduct cases, officers may attempt to claim qualified immunity as a defense. However, this doctrine does not provide blanket immunity, and officers can still be held liable for violating your rights if their conduct was unreasonable or excessive.
Q: Can I recover compensation for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other damages resulting from police misconduct?
A: Yes, individuals who have been victims of police misconduct may be able to recover compensation for emotional distress, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the misconduct. A qualified attorney from Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner LLP can help you document your damages and seek fair compensation through a civil lawsuit.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim for police misconduct, and what are the deadlines for taking action?
A: The deadline for filing a claim for police misconduct varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of your case. In general, it’s essential to act quickly to preserve your rights and to seek the advice of a qualified attorney as soon as possible after the incident.
Q: What can I expect from the process of working with a police misconduct attorney, and how will my case be handled?
A: When working with a police misconduct attorney, you can expect a thorough and compassionate approach to your case. Your attorney from Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner LLP will listen to your story, gather evidence, and build a strong case to seek justice and compensation for your injuries and damages. Your attorney will also keep you informed throughout the process and advocate aggressively on your behalf to ensure that your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Contact a Team of Andover Civil Rights Attorneys
When a legal matter affects your life, quick action is critical. You deserve and need immediate personal attention. The lawyers at Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner LLP recognize this. They are often available — not just on weekdays, but on evenings and weekends as well — to take forceful and effective legal action. This quick and effective last-minute action has helped us achieve a history of favorable results in state and federal courts throughout Massachusetts.
If you believe that your civil rights have been violated, contact Krasnoo, Klehm & Falkner LLP at 978-475-9955 for a confidential consultation.