Long Beach Police Shooting Attorney

It seems like there has been an epidemic of police shootings in the United States over the past few years. Thousandsof people are fatally shot each year, including nearly 300 already in the year 2016. Many others are shot and survive every day.

In the landmark case of Tennessee v. Garner, the United States Supreme Court decided that a police officer cannot use deadly force “unless it is necessary to prevent the escape and the officer has probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others.” Based on this standard, police shootings ought to occur far less frequently than they do. The unfortunate truth is that many of these shootings are not legally justified.

If you or a family member has been a victim of a Long Beach Police shooting, it is important that you have your case fully investigated. Under 42 U.S. Code Section 1983, a lawsuit can be brought against police and police departments for violations of constitutional rights. It is also possible to be compensated under California tort law by using theories of assault, battery, negligence, or wrongful death.

Contacting an attorney who is experienced in this area of law is the first step toward achieving justice. Gathering evidence, analyzing the facts of your case, and developing legal arguments can be a complex endeavor. In a case involving a police shooting, it is crucial to hire an attorney who has a history of successes in this area of the law.

I am an attorney with years of experience practicing in Long Beach and throughout Southern California. My law office staff and I have an exceptional track record, and we are proud to deliver a client-focused service. Contact the Law Offices of Scott D. Hughes at 714-423-6928 to schedule a free consultation today.