From accusations of police brutality to allegations of governmental negligence, civil rights violations are all over the news today. Whether someone violated your rights or you’ve been accused of violating someone else’s, our Civil Litigation Practice Group is prepared to help.
Our civil rights attorneys have successfully represented individuals and police officers in civil rights litigation involving allegations of police misconduct, municipal liability or corrections officer misconduct in violation of state or federal statutes or constitutions. With these matters, our attorneys have experience on both sides of the courtroom.
Dungan & LeFevre’s attorneys who handle civil rights litigation are Steven Justice and Michael Scarpelli. To schedule a consultation regarding your specific case, contact us today. With offices in Troy, Ohio, we represent clients statewide.
What Is Municipal Liability?
City, state or other local governments are responsible for the safety of its citizens; this includes keeping roads, buildings, sidewalks, parks, public pools, and other government-run facilities in good working order and free of hazards. Governmental entities also are responsible for the proper training of their police officers.
Municipal liability cases might occur if an individual is injured on government property as a result of negligence or improper maintenance. Municipal liability might also result if a person is injured through police misconduct.
However, in some cases, government agencies are immune from such lawsuits. Because this area of the law can be rather murky, it is always best to contact a lawyer for guidance on how to proceed.
What Is Police Or Corrections Officer Misconduct?
Police misconduct refers to any illegal action taken by an officer in the line of duty. Allegations of police misconduct can include, but is not limited to:
- Police brutality
- Racial profiling
- Bribery
- False arrest
- Intimidation
- Falsification of evidence
- Witness tampering
- Unwarranted searches
Though some of these actions may be settled by disciplinary actions, in many cases they can lead to a miscarriage of justice. In that case, an individual may file a suit against the police officer in question.
A slightly lesser-known relative to police misconduct is corrections officer misconduct, which can include some of the same violations as listed above. Some of the most common claims against corrections officers include the use of force, sexual misconduct, poor medical care and race discrimination.
Put Our Experience And Dedication On Your Side
Dungan & LeFevre attorney Steven Justice is a former judicial clerk for the Honorable Nathaniel Jones of the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals. In that capacity, he gained valuable experience with civil rights litigation involving alleged police misconduct or municipal liability. On behalf of injured individuals, Mr. Justice successfully prosecuted civil rights claims against police officers and communities in Southwest Ohio, and he has defended police officers against frivolous claims asserted by individual citizens.
Contact Us
If you believe your constitutional rights have been violated, call us at XXX-XXX-XXXX or contact us via email. Our offices are located in Troy, and we represent clients throughout the Miami Valley and Ohio.