Why File a Civil Excessive Use of Force Complaint?
One of the biggest frustrations for the victims of police brutality is the lack of accountability for bad actors. Unfortunately, some people who become officers lack the training or discipline to use the right amount of force and stop an incident from descending into tragedy. They have knee-jerk reactions, are too fearful or let anger get the best of them and violate a person’s rights. Each year in the U.S. hundreds of innocent Americans die at the hands of negligent police officers. In 2015, 991 of those deaths were caused by police shootings, according to the Washington Post.
Victims can pursue criminal charges and file an Internal Affairs complaint, but prosecutions occur infrequently, and IA investigations may result in minor punishments. These courses of justice just aren’t adequate for a victim or surviving loved ones.
A civil suit is often the best option for a victim because this course is a quicker route to justice than the other two options. A civil suit also grants a victim compensation to cover their medical costs and mental anguish.
Civil court locations in New Mexico:
First Judicial District Court – Santa Fe County Courthouse
- 225 Montezuma Ave.,
- Santa Fe, NM 87501
- 13th Judicial District Court
- 1835 NM-314,
- Los Lunas, NM 87031
Lea County District Court
- 100 N Main Ave #6C,
- Lovington, NM 88260
- Consult with a Police Brutality Lawyer in New Mexico
If you file a civil claim against a law enforcement officer, you will be facing off with a government entity either on the local, state or federal level. Different rules apply to civil claims against the government than personal injury or wrongful death claims against a private citizen.
Governmental agencies would prefer to settle an excessive use of force complaint out of court and are often eager begin settlement negotiations. You may be offered a fair settlement from the onset of this process, but you may need an attorney to get better compensation. USAttorneys can connect you with a police brutality lawyer in New Mexico to represent your interests and secure a generous settlement.
If you’ve been the victim of police brutality in New Mexico, a police injury lawyer can help. Please call USAttorneys.com today at 800-672-3103 for a free consultation with a police brutality lawyer in New Mexico.
