Police Brutality

Boston Attorneys Representing Victims of Police Brutality

It is well-understood that law enforcement agents can use reasonable force to carry out their duties. It is not uncommon for police officers to cross the line, however and apply force that is excessive under the circumstances, placing individuals in harm’s way at the very moment they should be protected. Victims of police brutality often endure not only physical injury but also emotional trauma, humiliation, and a loss of faith in the justice system. Fortunately, the law provides remedies for victims of police brutality, allowing them to seek redress for the harm they suffered at the hands of law enforcement agents. If you or a loved one sustained losses due to police brutality, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney to discuss what claims you may be able to pursue. At Koufman Law Group, our Boston civil rights attorneys are committed to protecting those whose rights have been violated by police misconduct, and if you hire us, we will fight vigorously to help you seek the justice you deserve.

Grounds for Police Brutality Claims

Police brutality encompasses a wide range of misconduct. Excessive physical force, which occurs when officers use more violence than is reasonably necessary to subdue or detain a person, is the most common example of misconduct. Excessive force can include striking, choking, kicking, or employing weapons such as batons, tasers, or firearms against individuals who pose no real threat. Unjust shootings are among the most tragic instances of police brutality, and often result in catastrophic injury or loss of life.

Police brutality can also occur in custodial settings, where people being detained suffer from degrading treatment, denial of medical care, or confinement in dangerous conditions. Beyond physical abuse, police brutality may involve verbal harassment, threats, or intimidation. Racial profiling and discriminatory targeting of individuals based on race, religion, or other protected characteristics also fall within this category of misconduct.

Seeking Justice for Police Brutality

Victims of police brutality in Massachusetts can seek justice through several legal avenues. Many claims are brought in federal court under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which provides a means for individuals to hold police officers and, in some cases, the municipalities that employ them accountable for constitutional violations. Claims often allege violations of the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable seizures, the Eighth Amendment’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment, or the Fourteenth Amendment’s guarantee of due process and equal protection.

Massachusetts law also recognizes claims based on police misconduct. Under the Massachusetts Civil Rights Act and the state constitution, people can pursue lawsuits in state court when law enforcement officers infringe upon their rights through intimidation, threats, or coercion. In some cases, the municipality that employed the officer may also be liable if the misconduct reflects a broader policy, failure to train, or pattern of abuse. Choosing between state and federal court requires careful consideration of the facts, the relief sought, and the applicable legal standards.

Compensation for Victims of Police Brutality

The remedies available in police brutality cases are designed both to compensate victims for their injuries and to hold law enforcement accountable. Compensatory damages may include reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, and the costs of future treatment. Victims may also recover damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and damage to reputation. When brutality results in lasting disability or the death of a loved one, courts may award substantial damages to address the severity of the harm.

In especially egregious cases, punitive damages may be available. These are intended not just to compensate the victim but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct by others in the future. Courts may also grant injunctive relief, requiring police departments to reform policies, adopt new training measures, or implement oversight mechanisms to prevent further abuses.

Speak to an Experienced Boston Police Brutality Attorney

The consequences of police brutality can be life-altering, leaving victims with physical injuries, financial burdens, and profound psychological scars. Confronting misconduct by law enforcement requires courage, and victims need strong advocates who are prepared to take on complex cases against powerful institutions. The experienced Boston police brutality lawyers of Koufman Law Group have the knowledge and determination necessary to pursue justice for victims of excessive force, unlawful arrests, and other forms of police misconduct. If you or a loved one were the victim of police brutality, we can help you build a compelling case that aims to protect your rights and hold the wrongdoers accountable. Our office is located in Boston, and we represent clients in Boston and throughout Massachusetts. You can contact us to arrange a confidential consultation through our online form or by calling us at 617-423-2212.