Police Misconduct & Brutality
Police Brutality Lawyer Pennsylvania
Police are entrusted to protect us, but when officers cross the line—using excessive force, making false arrests, or abusing their power—it can leave you traumatized, injured, and distrustful of the system. At Harry Coleman Law, we believe every Pennsylvanian deserves protection from police misconduct and the opportunity to hold the responsible officers and departments accountable.
What Counts as Police Misconduct or Brutality?
Police misconduct includes:
- Excessive Force: Unjustified beatings, shootings, Tasings, or rough arrests
- False Arrest or Imprisonment: Being detained without probable cause
- Malicious Prosecution: Facing charges the officer knows are bogus
- Civil Rights Violations: Racial profiling, harassment, or abuse of power
- Wrongful Arrest and Detention: Being held without legal justification
Examples:
- Beaten, pepper-sprayed, or shocked without resisting
- Arrested without clear evidence or probable cause
- Injured by unnecessary physical force during an encounter
- Harassed or targeted due to race, speech, or identity
Your Legal Rights and Section 1983 Lawsuits
The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures—police cannot use more force than necessary, and they must have probable cause to arrest you. When they violate these rights, you can sue for damages in federal court under Section 1983, which allows victims to hold officers and departments accountable for civil rights violations.
Qualified Immunity: The Challenge—And How We Overcome It
Police and departments often claim qualified immunity—a legal defense that shields officers unless it’s shown they violated a “clearly established” right. Our attorneys know how to defeat qualified immunity by:
- Identifying precedent-setting cases that show your rights were clear
- Citing body cam, dash cam, and third-party video
- Highlighting contradictions and misconduct in police reports
We’ve handled civil rights litigation from both sides, giving us unique insight into police and municipal defense strategies—and how to overcome them.
How We Build a Strong Case
We move quickly and strategically to:
- Obtain and preserve police body cam, dash cam, and 911 recordings
- Gather eyewitness statements and bystander videos
- Document all injuries with photos and medical reports
- Consult use-of-force experts and former law enforcement trainers
- Coordinate with your criminal defense if you’ve been charged (to avoid hurting your civil case)
Even if the official report is against you, we know police reports are not always accurate—your story matters, and we’ll fight to prove it.
Experience That Makes a Difference
Our attorneys have been involved in high-profile civil rights lawsuits, including representing victims and defending municipalities—so we know both sides of the courtroom. We understand internal police investigation processes, how to subpoena evidence, and what questions expose misconduct in depositions or at trial.
It’s About Justice—Not Anti-Police
We respect good law enforcement. Our goal is to hold accountable only those who abuse their power. Successful lawsuits can lead to compensation for you, as well as policy changes, better training, and the removal of dangerous officers—making communities safer for everyone.
Common Concerns and Your Rights
“I’m traumatized and afraid no one will believe me against the police.”
We believe you. With modern evidence—videos, bystander statements, and forensic analysis—we can prove your case and make sure your voice is heard.
“The police hurt me and then charged me with resisting arrest—am I stuck?”
No. We routinely coordinate with criminal defense attorneys to clear your name and protect your right to sue. Often, beating the criminal charge makes your civil case even stronger.
“What if suing the police makes things worse for me?”
Retaliation for filing a lawsuit is illegal and itself a civil rights violation. Once a case is filed, departments know they’re being watched and further abuse can have even greater consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue the police for excessive force in PA?
Yes. If officers used more force than necessary or arrested you without probable cause, you can sue for damages under Section 1983.
Do I need a civil rights lawyer to sue the police?
Absolutely. Police brutality and civil rights cases are complex and require experience with federal law and qualified immunity defenses.
How do I start a police brutality lawsuit?
Contact us for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll review your situation, gather evidence, and explain your rights and options.
What if I was falsely arrested or beaten but have been charged criminally?
We can work with your criminal defense lawyer to coordinate a legal strategy that protects both your defense and your civil rights claim.
Take Back Your Power—Speak With a Police Misconduct Attorney
If you were harmed or your rights were violated by police, don’t let fear or shame stop you from seeking justice. We offer confidential consultations and handle all cases on a contingency basis—no fee unless we win. Your story matters, and we will fight to make it heard.