When Lawful Authority Turns Harmful

Police interactions can be stressful, even under normal circumstances. When force is used unnecessarily or excessively, the experience can quickly become frightening and traumatic. Many people walk away with injuries, emotional distress, and a lingering sense that their dignity was stripped away in a moment they could not control.

Police brutality cases are serious and deeply personal. They often involve power imbalances, public scrutiny, and fear of speaking out. At The Stuckey Firm, we approach these cases with care and resolve. We work with you, not just for you, taking time to understand what happened and helping you move forward in a way that protects your rights and your voice.

Most clients come to us because they do not want to be overwhelmed with the legal process and fighting with insurance adjusters. Hiring a lawyer allows you to hand off the stress while we pursue the compensation you need. 

What Is Police Brutality?

Police brutality generally refers to the use of force by law enforcement that is excessive, unreasonable, or unlawful under the circumstances. It may include physical strikes, kicks, chokeholds, taser use, baton strikes, firearm force, or other tactics that are not justified by the situation. In many cases, brutality also involves force used after a person is already restrained or no longer poses a threat.

These claims are often evaluated under federal civil rights standards, including constitutional protections against the use of unreasonable force.

For a broader context on how excessive force and unlawful police practices are addressed at the federal level, the U.S. Department of Justice provides public information on civil rights enforcement and law enforcement misconduct.

Because these cases may also involve state procedures and public record access, understanding Ohio’s legal framework is crucial. Ohio’s public records and civil procedures can play a role in obtaining evidence and building a clear factual record.

The Benefits of Working With a Police Brutality Lawyer

  • Focused Strategy in High-Stakes Claims. Police brutality cases often involve complex defenses and heightened scrutiny. Legal guidance helps ensure the claim is built carefully and evaluated under the correct legal standards.
  • Support During a Traumatic Process. Many clients feel overwhelmed or hesitant to speak out. Having counsel provides structure, clarity, and a steady advocate throughout the process.
  • Early Evidence Preservation. These cases frequently depend on body-camera footage, dash-cam video, dispatch logs, medical records, and witness accounts. Acting early helps preserve evidence before it is lost or overwritten.
  • Client-Centered Accountability Goals. Not every client seeks the same outcome. We work with you to define what justice looks like in your case, whether that involves compensation, formal accountability, or litigation.
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Does My Situation Require Police Brutality Representation?

You may want legal guidance if you were injured during a police encounter and believe the force used was excessive or unnecessary. Being arrested or charged does not automatically justify the use of force. If the force was disproportionate, retaliatory, or continued after you were restrained, a civil rights claim may still be possible. It is especially important to speak with a lawyer if you have documented injuries, ongoing medical treatment, or emotional trauma related to the incident. Police brutality cases often involve strict deadlines and procedural requirements, and early guidance can help protect your ability to pursue accountability.

Police Brutality Cases What to Expect

Step One: Careful Intake Focused on the Use of Force

We begin by listening to your account of what happened. We review injuries, medical care, witnesses, and any evidence you have. We also discuss your goals and explain how excessive-force claims are evaluated.

Step Two: Evidence Preservation and Records Requests

Police brutality cases often rely on records that must be requested promptly, such as body-camera footage, dispatch logs, incident reports, and jail records. Ohio’s public records laws govern the process of obtaining many of these materials.

Step Three: Claim Development and Legal Strategy

Once evidence is gathered, we assess which legal claims are applicable and identify the parties that may be responsible, which may involve federal civil rights claims, state-law claims, or both, depending on the circumstances.

Step Four: Negotiation or Litigation

Some cases resolve through negotiation. Others require litigation to pursue meaningful accountability. We prepare each case with trial readiness so your options remain protected at every stage.

We are always prepared to go to court if necessary, but filing a lawsuit does not automatically mean trial. It is often a step that pushes the case toward a fair resolution.

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Examples of Police Brutality

Police brutality can take many forms, and the details matter. Examples may include:

  • Using force against someone who is not resisting
  • Applying force after a person is restrained or handcuffed
  • Chokeholds or restraints that restrict breathing
  • Excessive or repeated taser use
  • Striking with batons or other weapons without justification
  • Retaliatory force after questioning an officer
  • Denial or delay of medical care following an encounter

These incidents can result in fractures, head injuries, internal trauma, nerve damage, and lasting psychological harm. A strong claim connects those injuries to the unjustified use of force and explains why the actions were not reasonable under the law.

Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First Firm That Works With You

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

Trial-Ready Preparation for Serious Claims

These cases often face aggressive defenses and procedural challenges. We preserve evidence early, build credibility carefully, and prepare every case to withstand scrutiny.

Credibility That Supports Advocacy

Our attorneys are respected statewide and approach civil rights matters with seriousness and professionalism. We pursue accountability with care, strength, and respect for the people we represent.

Police Brutality Dublin, OH Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered excessive force in a police brutality case?

Excessive force generally refers to force that was not reasonable given the circumstances. It may include force used when there was no threat, when a person was not resisting, or after they were already restrained.

What evidence matters in a police brutality case?

Video footage, medical records, photographs, witness statements, and official reports can all be important. Early action helps preserve this evidence.

How long do I have to take legal action?

Deadlines vary based on the type of claim and whether it is filed under state or federal law. Speaking with a lawyer early is the best way to protect your options.

Can I pursue 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. Independent evidence, including video, medical documentation, and witness accounts, can help establish what actually occurred.

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Speak With a Dublin Police Brutality Lawyer

If you believe you were subjected to excessive force in Dublin, you do not have to navigate what comes next alone. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation and get clear guidance from a team committed to protecting your rights.

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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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