What are the legal avenues for handling a police brutality charge?

Answer by  barristershandshake (9)

1) If a federal agent, file a Bivens action. 2) If not a federal agent, file a Section 1983 suit. 3) Or file a complaint with the department.

Answer by  patti (29325)

The first stop would likely be the county prosecutor, who would look into the charges and advise the client accordingly. IAD would likely be involved. Ultimately, the state would prosecute.

Answer by  patti (29325)

You can file a complaint with the police department. You can also make an appointment with the state attorney to see if charges can be filed.

Answer by  patti (29325)

File a complaint with the police department. If the matter is not resolved, you can go to the state's attorney. It depends somewhat on the circumstances, but mostly accusations claim a violation of civil rights, which is the issue to be investigated both internally and by either the county or state attorney.

Answer by  mem4dr (1378)

First, contact an experienced lawyer. Next you usually will file a formal complaint with the police department; the department will then do an internal investigation. If this does not resolve the case to your liking, then the next step is to file a formal lawsuit against the police department.

Answer by  John (9008)

You have several options, which are non-exclusive. You can sue the officers and the police department in federal court; these cases are hard to win, but not impossible. An attorney would be a big help for this route. You can also file a complaint with the FBI. Lastly, you could also file a complaint with the police department itself.

Answer by  fig (71)

First, you need to contact a lawyer, and I would suggest giving preference to one from the ACLU, an organization which tends to be sympathetic to the justice of such cases as yours. Then, you can make up all kinds of allegations against your opponent, and just see what happens. It will be your word against his.

Answer by  xsut (943)

This question can be better answered if the state you are living in was also stated. For example, the laws in various states differ. The department of justice may be a good starting point since I do not know your state.

Answer by  Dean (4035)

Go to Internal Affairs to complain, or call the county prosecutor. If charges have been filed, the state's attorney will handle the case. There will be an investigation in-house as well as an external look into the matter. Much depends on the particulars of the situation as well as the background of the individual making the complaint.

Answer by  Gabriel (2146)

The first thing to do is consult with an attorney that is familiar with the law in your area. If you feel that you have been a victim, you should report it to the police. There is usually a department for complaints against officers. If they find that further investigation is needed, you may be contacted by internal affairs.