Were you or a loved one a victim of police brutality in Fort Walton Beach, FL? If law enforcement used excessive force or violated your civil rights, you may be entitled to compensation for both your economic and non-economic damages. Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers is here to fight for justice on your behalf.
Our Fort Walton Beach police brutality lawyers have over 60 years of combined legal experience. We’ve recovered millions for clients and know how to challenge powerful government entities. We understand how difficult it is to take action against law enforcement, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Contact our law office today to schedule a free consultation and learn about your legal options at (850) 863-5297. We’re ready to fight for you and your family.
How Brannon & Brannon Can Help If You Were a Victim of Police Misconduct in Fort Walton Beach, Florida
At Brannon & Brannon, we bring decades of courtroom experience and a strong understanding of civil rights laws. If you hire our Fort Walton Beach police brutality attorneys, we’ll work hard to get you the justice and compensation you deserve. We will:
- Investigate your case thoroughly and calculate all of your damages
- Interview witnesses, obtain video footage, and consult with expert witnesses
- Identify all the parties who may be legally responsible
- Help you file a civil rights claim under federal or state law
- Protect your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process
- Represent you in settlement negotiations or at trial if necessary
Facing off against a police department can feel impossible. Law enforcement officers often have significant legal protections, and departments may not act quickly to investigate or hold officers accountable. That’s why having a skilled Fort Walton Beach personal injury attorney on your side is critical.
Our team will listen to your story and support you throughout the process. Contact us today for a free case review.
What Is Considered Police Brutality?
Police brutality is a form of civil rights violation. It occurs when law enforcement officers use force that is excessive, unjustified, or intentionally harmful. While police officers are permitted to use reasonable force in some situations, there are strict limits under both Florida and federal law.
Examples of police brutality include:
- Use of excessive or deadly force
- Unjustified shootings
- Tasing, choking, or using pepper spray without cause
- False arrest or imprisonment
- Sexual assault by an officer
- Verbal abuse, threats, or racial profiling
These actions can lead to serious injuries, psychological trauma, or even death. If any of these apply to your or your loved one’s situation, you may have grounds to sue for damages.
What Are My Legal Rights After a Police Brutality Incident in Florida?
If you were harmed by police misconduct in Florida, you may have a claim under both state and federal law. One of the most common legal paths is to file a lawsuit under Section 1983 of the U.S. Code. This law allows individuals to sue state and local officials, including police officers, who violate their constitutional rights.
Under federal law, victims of police brutality may seek compensation if their:
- Fourth Amendment rights (freedom from unreasonable search/seizure) were violated
- Eighth Amendment rights (freedom from cruel and unusual punishment) were violated
- Fourteenth Amendment rights (due process and equal protection) were violated
In some cases, you may also be able to bring a claim directly under Florida state law for assault, battery, or negligence. However, suing a government agency in Florida comes with strict procedures and time limits, so it’s important to act quickly.
How Long Do I Have To File a Police Misconduct Lawsuit in Florida?
There are different deadlines depending on the type of lawsuit you’re filing. For claims under federal law (Section 1983), you generally have two years from the date of the misconduct to file a lawsuit in Florida. If you’re filing a lawsuit under Florida state law (such as assault or battery), Florida’s statute of limitations is also typically two years.
However, if you are suing a government agency, you must first provide notice of your intent to sue under Florida’s sovereign immunity rules. This notice must be filed within three years in most cases (two years in cases involving wrongful death), and you usually must wait 180 days for the agency to investigate before filing a lawsuit.
Because the deadlines for lawsuits are complicated and strict, it’s important to speak with a qualified lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Call Our Fort Walton Beach Police Brutality Attorneys for a Free Consultation
No one should have to suffer at the hands of those who are sworn to protect them. If you’ve been the victim of police brutality or civil rights violations in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Brannon & Brannon is ready to help.
Our team has decades of combined experience and has recovered millions on behalf of injured clients. We believe in justice and accountability and won’t back down no matter how powerful the opposition is.
Call our Fort Walton Beach police brutality lawyers today to schedule your free consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
