When Force Becomes Abuse

A police encounter can escalate quickly. What begins as a routine interaction can turn violent, humiliating, or terrifying when an officer uses force that is unnecessary or excessive. For many people, the harm goes far beyond physical injuries. It includes fear, confusion, and the lasting loss of dignity that follows when authority is abused.

Police brutality cases are deeply personal and often high-stakes. They require careful documentation, strong evidence, and a steady legal approach that protects your rights while honoring what you have been through. At The Stuckey Firm, we take police brutality cases in Columbus seriously and work with you, not just for you, at every stage.

The legal process can feel intimidating, especially when you are already dealing with medical treatment and financial pressure. Our role is to handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your recovery and your family’s needs.

What Is Police Brutality?

Police brutality generally refers to the use of excessive or unlawful force by law enforcement. This can include punches, kicks, strikes, chokeholds, restraints, tasers, batons, firearms, or other force that is not justified by the circumstances. Brutality may also involve force used after a person is already restrained, subdued, or no longer a threat.

Many police brutality claims are evaluated under federal civil rights standards, including constitutional protections against unreasonable force. For general background on how unlawful policing practices are addressed at the federal level, the U.S. Department of Justice provides public information on law enforcement misconduct and excessive force within the broader civil rights framework.

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The Benefits of Working With a Police Brutality Attorney

  • A Clear Strategy in a High-Stakes Case - Police brutality cases often involve complex legal defenses and aggressive tactics. A police brutality attorney helps you understand the standards that apply and builds a case designed to withstand close scrutiny.
  • Support During a Traumatic Experience - Many people feel overwhelmed, intimidated, or uncertain about coming forward. Legal representation provides structure, guidance, and a steady advocate so you are not navigating the process alone.
  • Evidence Preservation Before It Disappears - Excessive force cases frequently rely on body camera footage, dash cam video, witness statements, medical records, and official reports. Early legal action helps preserve critical evidence and strengthens credibility.
  • A Client-Centered Approach to Accountability - Not every client wants the same outcome. Some seek compensation for injuries and trauma. Others want public accountability or policy change. We work with you to define what matters most and pursue the right path.

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Does My Situation Require Police Brutality Representation?

You may need legal guidance if you were injured during an encounter with law enforcement and believe the force used was excessive. Even if you were arrested or charged, that does not automatically justify brutality. If force was disproportionate, retaliatory, or used after you were restrained, you may still have a valid claim.

You should also consider speaking with a police brutality attorney in Columbus if you have lasting physical injuries, emotional trauma, or medical documentation that supports the seriousness of what occurred. These cases often involve strict deadlines and procedural requirements, and early guidance helps protect your options.

Police Brutality Cases What to Expect

Step One: A Detailed Intake Focused on the Use of Force

We begin by listening to your account of what happened. We review injuries, medical treatment, witnesses, and any available evidence. We also discuss what outcome you want and explain how excessive force claims are evaluated.

Step Two: Evidence Preservation and Records Requests

Police brutality cases often depend on records that must be requested quickly, including body camera footage, dispatch logs, incident reports, and jail records. The Ohio Public Records Act outlines how public offices must maintain and provide records when properly requested.

Step Three: Claim Development and Legal Strategy

Once evidence is gathered, we evaluate which legal claims apply and which parties may be responsible. In Ohio, access to many government records is governed by Ohio Revised Code Section 149.43, which explains public records rights and remedies if records are improperly withheld.

Step Four: Negotiation or Litigation

Some police brutality cases resolve through settlement. Others require litigation to pursue accountability and fair compensation. We prepare every case with the expectation that it may be challenged aggressively and help you decide when negotiation serves your goals and when litigation is necessary.

We prepare every case with a trial-ready approach because that is how real accountability is built. But many lawsuits still settle without trial.

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Examples of Police Brutality

Police brutality can occur in many forms, and the details matter. Common examples include:

  • Striking or injuring someone who is not resisting
  • Using force after a person is restrained or handcuffed
  • Unlawful restraint, including chokeholds or pressure that restricts breathing
  • Excessive use of tasers, batons, or other weapons
  • Retaliatory force for questioning an officer or asserting rights
  • Denial of medical care after force is used

These incidents often result in fractures, head injuries, internal trauma, nerve damage, and lasting psychological harm. A strong legal claim connects those injuries to unjustified force and shows why the actions were not legally reasonable.

“If you’re looking for a lawyer who is not only knowledgeable but also deeply human in their approach, I highly recommend Christian and The Stuckey Firm. They helped me tremendously, and I am truly grateful.”

—J.V.

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Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First Firm That Works With You

Police brutality cases require trust and direct communication. We work with you, not just for you, taking time to understand your priorities, explain options clearly, and involve you in decisions throughout the case.

Trial-Ready Preparation for High-Stakes Claims

These cases often involve serious defense strategies and procedural challenges. We preserve evidence early, build credibility, and prepare thoroughly so your claim can withstand scrutiny, whether in negotiation or in court.

Credibility That Supports Meaningful Advocacy

Our attorneys are respected statewide and bring that credibility to every case we handle. We approach police brutality matters with seriousness and purpose, protecting clients who deserve to be treated with dignity and heard with respect.

Police Brutality Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered excessive force in a police brutality case?

Excessive force generally means force that was not reasonable under the circumstances. This can include force used when there was no threat, when a person was not resisting, or after they were already restrained.

What kind of evidence matters in a police brutality case?

Video footage, medical records, photographs, witness statements, and incident reports are often critical. Early action is important because footage and records can be lost or overwritten.

How long do I have to take legal action?

Deadlines vary depending on whether the claim is brought under state or federal law. Because timing can be strict, it is best to speak with a lawyer as early as possible to protect your rights.

Can I file a claim if I was arrested or charged with a crime?

Yes. An arrest does not eliminate your civil rights. If the force used was disproportionate or unlawful, a claim may still be possible depending on the facts.

What if the police report does not match what happened?

This is common in brutality cases. Independent evidence, such as video, witnesses, and medical documentation can help establish what occurred. A thorough investigation is key.

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Speak With a Police Brutality Attorney in Columbus

If you believe you were subjected to excessive force, you do not have to carry that alone. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation with a police brutality attorney in Columbus and get clear guidance from a team that will work with you from the start.

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If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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