Police brutality against juveniles is a growing problem in Philadelphia and across the country. Children and teens sometimes experience excessive force, unlawful detention, and constitutional violations during encounters with law enforcement agencies. These incidents can leave lasting physical, emotional, and psychological harm.
If your child has suffered from police violence, the Zeiger Firm can help you seek justice. We fight for Pennsylvania families who need strong legal representation after unlawful law enforcement encounters. Contact a Philadelphia civil rights lawyer for juveniles at the Zeiger Firm today for a free case review.
How a Police Brutality Lawyer Can Help
When police brutality and juvenile victims are at issue, you need legal guidance through the complex civil rights implications. A police brutality against minors lawyer can investigate your case, identify violations of your child’s rights, and help you pursue compensation for injuries or trauma.
One client shared, “Mr. Brian is the most honest lawyer I know he made me feel at ease the whole process I would mention him to anyone who needed some serious help from a serious and honest person.” Another said, “Brian Zeiger was the only who took the time out, and put in the hard work, determination, and effort to help me serve justice on an unfair matter. Thanks Brian!!!”
Our juvenile civil rights attorney in Philadelphia can help in multiple ways, such as:
- Review how your child’s encounter with the police happened to identify violations
- Gather and preserve crucial evidence, including body camera footage, medical records, and witness statements
- File civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 for constitutional violations
- Represent your family in negotiations, administrative proceedings, or in court
- Advocate for appropriate compensation for your child’s physical injuries and emotional trauma, among other damages
Thanks to the Zeiger Firm’s extensive experience with cases of police brutality against minorities and juveniles, we understand how difficult it is for you and your family. That’s why we work to protect your child’s rights throughout the entire legal process.
Understanding Police Brutality Involving Minors
Police brutality occurs when law enforcement officers use excessive or unnecessary force during civilian encounters. This can include physical violence, threats, improper restraint, or illegal detention. When directed at young people, these incidents carry unique risks and consequences.
Children and teens often respond differently from adults during law enforcement interactions. Their brains are still developing, which can make them more vulnerable to fear, confusion, and emotional distress. Even brief incidents can have long-term effects and cause mental health issues.
Police brutality is particularly concerning in cases involving police misconduct with minorities. Minority youth are disproportionately targeted for aggressive policing—but vigilant legal oversight and advocacy can help minors get justice following violent interactions with police.
Emotional and Psychological Harm to Minors
Beyond physical juvenile injuries, police brutality can inflict deep emotional and psychological harm on minors that alter their life course. According to JAMA Pediatrics, fear of authority figures, trust issues, and emotional distress often follow a traumatic police interaction. After a violent incident, minors may struggle in school, withdraw from social activities, or develop chronic anxiety. Teens often experience lasting effects on their self-esteem and mental health due to these adverse childhood experiences.
Parents who witness their child’s mistreatment often feel helpless, angry, and uncertain about the next steps. Legal intervention can fight to hold law enforcement officials accountable and support the family’s recovery process.
Common Police Brutality Scenarios Involving Youth
While police brutality can happen in a variety of situations, minors tend to be involved in the following incidents that may lead to negative police interactions:
- School incidents: Police officers and school resource officers sometimes respond to school situations with force that goes beyond maintaining order. They may use inappropriate restraint techniques, apply excessive force during altercations, or unlawfully detain students. Each action may violate the minor’s rights under federal and state law, including the Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments.
- Protests and public gatherings: Minors participating in protests or public gatherings often face aggressive policing tactics. Officers may use tear gas or physical restraints without probable cause. A juvenile civil rights attorney in Philadelphia can investigate whether the police violated constitutional protections and file a claim on a minor’s behalf.
- Street encounters: Everyday encounters on streets or in public areas can escalate into police misconduct. Teens may be stopped, frisked, or detained without justification. In some cases, law enforcement may use unlawful, excessive use of force or violence.
Police misconduct is a serious threat to the criminal justice system. Police killings and violent encounters are at an all-time high, necessitating effective prevention and intervention strategies to curb this epidemic. Brian Zeiger is dedicated to supporting community members who have been impacted by such incidents. Call us today to learn more about your and your child’s legal rights.
Legal Rights of Juveniles During Police Encounters
Like adult victims, juveniles also have constitutional protections under the Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments. The Fourth Amendment guards against unreasonable searches and seizures, meaning that officers must have probable cause or a valid warrant to conduct searches and seizures. The Fifth Amendment protects minors from self-incrimination, so they can’t be forced to speak without informed consent. Finally, the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees due process and equal protection under the law.
Generally, law enforcement must inform minors of their right to remain silent and the right to an attorney (their Miranda rights) before a custodial interrogation. A parent or guardian should be present to protect their child’s interests.
Holding Law Enforcement Accountable
Police departments may conduct internal reviews, but these often lack transparency or independence, making a civil rights lawsuit one of the best ways to hold law enforcement accountable.
Evidence is the key to proving police misconduct. Your child’s lawyer can gather evidence, such as body camera footage and medical records. Depending on the specific case, this evidence can demonstrate a pattern of unlawful behavior and lead to proactive policing initiatives that help reduce negative youth encounters.
Witness statements from peers, teachers, or bystanders can corroborate your child’s story. Furthermore, body camera footage, photos, and police reports provide objective documentation. This evidence may reveal procedural violations, excessive force, or that the police lied in their reports.
Filing a Police Brutality Claim on Behalf of a Minor
Civil lawsuits can seek compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and other harms caused by police misconduct. Claims are filed in federal or state court, depending on the specific circumstances. Your lawyer will explain the appropriate jurisdiction, relevant statutes, and procedural requirements needed to succeed.
It’s essential to consult a lawyer as soon as the incident occurs. Statutes of limitations (laws that dictate how long you have to file a case) often apply to civil rights actions. Plus, aggressive and experienced legal advocacy can protect your child from further harm while helping you pursue a meaningful resolution.
Contact a Philadelphia Police Misconduct Attorney Today
The Zeiger Firm offers aggressive and experienced representation to victims of police misconduct. We’ll fight to protect your child’s rights and hold law enforcement accountable. Contact us for a consultation today.
