WHAT IF YOU’RE A VICTIM OF POLICE MISCONDUCT? FAQs

Q: What steps should I take if I am a victim of police misconduct?

A: If you are a victim of police misconduct, it’s essential to take specific steps to address the situation. Here are your options:

1. Hire a Civil Rights Attorney:
   • Why a Civil Rights Attorney? Civil rights attorneys handle cases involving police brutality, harassment, excessive force, and other forms of police misconduct. They specialize in lawsuits against police departments and can help you navigate the legal process.
   • Documentation: Document the incident thoroughly. This includes evidence such as photos, videos, witness statements, and medical reports if you were injured.
2. File an Internal Affairs Complaint:
   • Purpose: Every law enforcement agency has an internal affairs department that investigates complaints against officers. Filing a complaint helps the agency identify and address officers who are not performing their duties properly. That being said, my recommendation is that you consult with a civil rights attorney before filing with internal affairs.
   • Benefits: Filing a complaint can alert insurance companies about potential financial liabilities. If an agency accumulates too many complaints, insurance companies may refuse to cover them, potentially leading to the agency’s shutdown.

Q: What should I document if I am a victim of police misconduct?

A: Documentation is crucial in cases of police misconduct. Ensure you collect and preserve the following:

• Detailed Written Account: Write down everything that happened, including dates, times, locations, and the names of the officers involved.
• Photographs and Videos: Capture any physical injuries, the scene of the incident, and any video footage available from bystanders or surveillance cameras.
• Witness Statements: Obtain statements from anyone who witnessed the incident.
• Medical Records: If you were injured, keep all medical reports, bills, and treatment records.

Q: How do I find a civil rights attorney?

A: To find a civil rights attorney:

• Referrals: Ask for recommendations from other attorneys or legal professionals. I don’t know when you’re reading this, but as of the time of writing this Michael Maddux out of Tampa handles this sort of thing, so you should look up his law firm and give him a call because he handles these sorts of things all over Florida.
• Online Searches: Look for attorneys specializing in civil rights cases in your area.
• Legal Directories: Use legal directories such as Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or the American Bar Association to find qualified civil rights attorneys.

Q: Why is it important to file an internal affairs complaint with an attorney’s oversight?

A: Filing an internal affairs complaint with an attorney’s oversight ensures that your complaint is comprehensive and properly documented. An attorney can help you articulate the specifics of the misconduct and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Q: What impact can multiple complaints have on a police agency?

A: Multiple complaints can have significant impacts on a police agency:

• Agency Improvement: Complaints can help the agency improve by identifying officers who need further training or disciplinary action.
• Financial Liability: Insurance companies need to know about complaints to assess the financial risks of covering the agency. High numbers of complaints and resulting lawsuits can lead to insurance companies dropping their coverage, potentially forcing the agency to shut down.