When police officers use excessive force, it can leave deep scars that go beyond the physical pain. Many people feel lost and unsure of where to turn after such a traumatic experience. Taking small but careful steps right away can help protect your rights and strengthen your case.
Keep detailed notes, take photos, and gather any witness information you can. These details can become powerful proof later on. Documenting police brutality is an act of courage that helps bring the truth to light. The Zeiger Firm can guide you through every step with an experienced police brutality lawyer ready to help.
Why Documentation Is Crucial in Police Brutality Cases
Evidence is the foundation of any police brutality claim. Courts need solid proof that the law enforcement officer violated your constitutional rights. Without documentation, cases often rely solely on credibility, favoring officers whose accounts appear more reliable.
Physical evidence, photos, videos, and witness statements provide objective details about what happened and who was involved. This becomes crucial when police reports contain errors or omissions.
Federal claims under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 allow victims to seek damages for violations of their civil rights, such as excessive force. Document evidence early, as injuries fade, footage disappears, and witnesses become challenging to find.
How Our Experienced Police Brutality Lawyers Can Help You
The Zeiger Firm has dedicated its practice to representing victims of police misconduct and civil rights violations. With extensive experience handling complex police brutality cases, our attorneys know how to gather evidence, navigate legal procedures, and build compelling claims that stand up in court.
You can see this dedication from one recent client testimonial:
“Had an amazing experience with Mr. Zeiger. There was a matter another attorney had mishandled to the point that the deadline to file was approaching. Brian Zeiger took the case, filed a day before the deadline, was honest about what he did and I got a positive result.” – Patrick Colleton
“Mr. Brian Zeiger is by far the best representation in court that I have ever had. A gentleman and professional that goes the extra mile winning for his clients.” – Rob Rivera
How a Police Brutality Lawyer Can Help
When you hire our law firm, we can help by:
- Investigating the incident and gathering all available evidence
- Identifying and interviewing witnesses who support your account
- Obtaining police reports, body camera footage, and official records to determine if there was a valid reason for the arrest or stop
- Reviewing records for law enforcement agencies to see if discrimination against people of color, national origin, religion, or disability are targeted more often for police violence
- Working with medical professionals to document injuries
- Filing complaints with oversight agencies
- Meeting all legal deadlines to preserve your claims
- Negotiating with government attorneys and insurers
- Representing you in court if no settlement is reached
- Representing you if criminal charges are filed against you
- Holding officers and departments accountable for misconduct
Steps to Document Police Brutality
Proper documentation begins as soon as possible after the incident occurs. The more detailed and thorough your records, the stronger your case will be. If possible, take the following steps to protect your legal rights and claim:
Take Photos and Videos of Injuries or the Scene
Visual evidence carries significant weight in court. Photograph any visible injuries immediately, including bruises, cuts, swelling, or abrasions. Take multiple photos from different angles and in good lighting. Continue documenting your injuries as they heal to show the progression over time.
If possible, photograph or video the location where the incident occurred. Capture any property damage, torn clothing, or other physical evidence that shows the force used. If bystanders recorded the encounter on their phones, ask for copies of their footage.
Record Witness Statements and Gather Contact Information
Eyewitness testimony can provide crucial corroboration of your account. Speak to anyone who saw what happened and ask if they would be willing to give a statement. Write down their names, phone numbers, and addresses while the information is fresh.
If witnesses are reluctant to get involved, explain that their testimony could make the difference in your case. Even brief statements describing what they observed can be valuable.
Preserve Medical and Incident Reports
Seek medical care immediately after the incident, even for minor injuries. Medical records create an official timeline and confirm harm caused by a police encounter. Be clear and detailed when describing injuries to healthcare providers.
Request copies of all your medical records, including emergency room reports and treatment notes, to prove the full scope of your injuries. If you obtain the police report, review it for errors or omissions. Officers may downplay events or injuries, and your attorney can help correct false or misleading statements.
How to Report Police Brutality or Misconduct
Reporting police brutality creates an official record of the incident and can trigger investigations that may lead to accountability.
Where and How to File a Formal Complaint
In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, police misconduct complaints can be filed with several agencies. You may report police brutality to the police department’s internal affairs division, though these reviews are often handled within the same department.
The Pennsylvania and New Jersey Office of the Attorney General investigates specific use-of-force cases, while the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division handles federal complaints involving patterns of misconduct. Filing through multiple channels increases accountability and helps create records that strengthen your civil case.
What to Include in Your Report for Accuracy and Credibility
When filing a complaint, provide as much detail as possible. Include the date, time, and location of the incident. Describe what happened in chronological order, noting the names or badge numbers of any officers involved. List any witnesses and provide their contact information if available.
Attach copies of photographs, medical records, and any other documentation you have collected. Be factual and precise in your description.
Learning About Deadlines and Legal Time Limits
Time limits for filing complaints and lawsuits vary depending on the type of claim. In New Jersey, claims against municipalities often require filing a notice of tort claim within 90 days of the incident. Pennsylvania requires you to give notice to the police department or other law enforcement agencies within six months of the incident. Federal civil rights claims under Section 1983 typically have a two-year statute of limitations, though this can vary.
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar you from pursuing legal action. Consulting with an attorney early ensures you meet all necessary filing requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Reporting Misconduct
Some of the common mistakes that a person may make when reporting improper police conduct may include:
Failing to Act Quickly
Delays in documenting and reporting can weaken your case. Take immediate action as soon as you are safe to start preserving evidence and filing complaints.
Sharing Sensitive Evidence Publicly or on Social Media
Posting about your case or sharing evidence online can harm your legal claims. Anything shared publicly can be used against you or raise doubts about the evidence. Discuss your case only with your attorney until it is resolved.
Not Consulting an Attorney Early
Waiting too long for legal advice can cause missed deadlines and lost evidence. Early consultation helps protect your rights and strengthen your case.
Contact a Police Brutality Lawyer for Help
If you have experienced police brutality or misconduct, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. The Zeiger Firm is committed to fighting for victims’ rights and holding law enforcement accountable.
Our experienced police brutality lawyers will work tirelessly to document your case, pursue justice, and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us online for a consultation.
