Law Enforcement & Civil Rights Defense

Our Law Enforcement & Civil Rights Defense team protects the interests of law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, municipalities and individual officers facing constitutional and civil rights claims under §1983 and state law. We provide vigorous representation in high-stakes litigation while helping our clients navigate the complex, dynamic legal landscape of law enforcement operations. With a deep understanding of the complex legal landscape surrounding law enforcement operations and civil rights claims, we provide robust, strategic defense in this highly unique area of law.

Our trial attorneys have extensive experience defending against §1983 claims in federal court, as well as state tort actions arising from law enforcement activities. We work closely with police chiefs, sheriffs, corrections administrators, and municipal leaders to develop strong defenses while also advising on risk management strategies.

Our team has decades of experience defending civil rights claims, with a focus on:

• Fourth Amendment claims (excessive force, false arrest, wrongful imprisonment, unlawful search/seizure)
• Eighth Amendment issues in corrections settings
• First Amendment challenges (free speech, religious freedom)
• Fourteenth Amendment claims (Due process and equal protection matters)
• Qualified immunity defenses
• Monell claims against municipalities
• Internal affairs investigations and disciplinary proceedings
• Use of force policy development and training

We offer a full spectrum of legal services tailored to the unique needs of municipalities and law enforcement agencies. Working proactively with agencies, we help develop policies, procedures, and training programs that minimize liability exposure.  We provide swift, comprehensive case assessments to determine the most effective defense strategies and explore early resolution options when appropriate. Our team is actively involved in the pre-claim and litigation process from the moment an agency has an active event, such as an officer-involved shooting.  With a deep bench of experienced trial attorneys, we vigorously and cost effectively defend clients through all stages of litigation from an initial event through litigation, trial, and appeal.

Our team stays at the forefront of evolving case law and societal expectations regarding policing practices. We provide ongoing training and policy guidance to help our clients adapt to changing legal standards and community relations challenges.  We assist clients in navigating the often-intense media scrutiny that accompanies high-profile civil rights cases.

Our trial attorneys have in-depth understanding of §1983 litigation, qualified immunity doctrines, and evolving case law affecting law enforcement. The team has a proven track record of successfully defending high-stakes civil rights cases in federal and state courts. We collaborate with subject matter experts, including use-of-force specialists, and police practices experts to build comprehensive defense strategies.

With a deep understanding of the unique pressures facing law enforcement agencies, we offer zealous courtroom advocacy balanced with sensitivity to public perception and political realities.  At Baker Sterchi, we understand the critical role law enforcement plays in maintaining public safety and the unique challenges officers face in carrying out their duties. Our Law Enforcement and Civil Rights Defense team is committed to providing vigorous, ethical representation that protects the rights of law enforcement while promoting accountability and public trust in the justice system.