On November 25, 2024, 251 people aged 45 years and over were fatally shot by police officers in the U.S. 310 people in the same age group were also shot to death by police in 2023, and 263 in 2022.
A police shooting can change everything in an instant. There is grief, there is uncertainty, and there is anger from which some people don’t recover. Whether someone was shot or someone died, it doesn’t matter. It’s not healing for victims and their families; it’s seeking answers and justice.
Police shooting attorney Greg Peacock, Esq., says that police are legally permitted to use their firearms in response to a threat of deadly force to protect themselves, their fellow officers, and members of the public. If a police officer violates these rules, they can be held accountable for the damage they caused.
If you or someone close to you was affected by a police shooting, you need to know what legal remedies exist.
Understanding Your Rights After a Police Shooting
When involved in police shootings, knowing your rights is critical.
You have a right to go for immediate medical treatment to ensure your health and safety. It would be best if you documented everything, including injuries, etc., and the scene itself, as this information might become useful later.
You have a right to be silent since anything you say can be held against you. If someone accuses or charges you with an offense, you have the right to defend yourself.
Learn local laws concerning police conduct for they might differ. Keep in mind that you can file a complaint with the police department or institute civil actions.
Being familiar with the case empowers the affected to act to defend their rights during this trying time.
The Role of an Attorney in Civil Lawsuits
To seek justice after a police shooting, the need for legal counsel arises. A civil attorney would know your case’s details and protect you in court.
That means they are going to be securing evidence, identifying and interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case for your claims. Your attorney will also handle all communications with the police and insurance companies to keep your rights intact.
In addition to helping you understand the legal processes that are set in motion, they will set reasonable expectations based on the details and potential avenues for suing the responsible parties.
An attorney will help you through tough times and improve your case’s likelihood for success.
Pursuing Compensation for Medical and Funeral Expenses
After a police shooting, monetary compensation becomes the primary consideration to secure financial well-being first. Emergency room medical bills, hospital stays, and treatment costs all come with a frightening financial burden.
The funeral can create significant stress during an already painful time. Your lawyer will help you collect funds to pay for subsequent costs. They will collect evidence, document actual costs, and work to settle with insurance companies or responsible parties.
Stringent deadlines for filing claims make it important for everyone to act quickly. Once they get paid, the people involved may at least partially ease their financial stress and focus on getting better and taking care of their family.
Do not hesitate in asking for a guide to obtaining what you are rightfully entitled to.
Dealing with Criminal Investigations and Accountability
After a police shooting, the ensuing criminal investigations can overwhelm you as you seek justice and accountability.
You need to know your rights and how the inquiry is going. The police and other government authorities normally do the investigation. To keep things on track, there needs to be independent scrutiny.
A lawyer can help you get evidence, file grievances, and ask for a fair review. They’ll keep you updated on the case and explain criminal law.
To hold cops accountable, you need to be persistent. This is why having a lawyer can help your case.
Emotional Support and Resources for Victims’ Families
Losing a loved one to a police shooting can shatter families apart and leave them feeling isolated. In such times, it is important to seek emotional support.
When you can, get in touch with support groups so you may talk about how you feel with people who have been through the same thing. There may be local clubs or offices that offer counseling services specifically for families who have lost loved ones and are trying to get better.
Talk to a mental health expert who works with trauma and loss about how you feel.
You should also get legal help so that someone can help you through this tough time in a lawful way.
