Police officers are sworn to protect and serve the public—but when they cross the line and use excessive or unjustified force, citizens have the right to seek justice. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to police misconduct, you may have grounds to file a civil rights lawsuit under both Georgia law and federal protections.
At Harman Law Firm in Atlanta, we represent victims of police brutality and help them hold law enforcement accountable. These cases are complex and require an experienced legal team that understands both your rights and the legal system behind them.
What Is Considered Excessive Force?
Not every use of force by police is excessive. Officers are legally allowed to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others, or to detain a suspect. However, force becomes excessive when it goes beyond what is necessary for the situation.
Examples of excessive force may include:
- Hitting, kicking, or using weapons on a non-resisting suspect
- Use of a taser or pepper spray on a restrained individual
- Unjustified shootings or chokeholds
- Assaulting a suspect who is already handcuffed or complying
- Denying urgent medical care after an arrest
- Using force as retaliation for filming or questioning officers
The key factor is reasonableness—would another officer in the same situation have responded the same way?
Your Rights Under Federal and Georgia Law
Victims of police brutality are protected by Section 1983 of the U.S. Civil Rights Act, which allows citizens to sue state or local officials who violate their constitutional rights. In cases of excessive force, this typically involves a violation of the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures.
In Georgia, you may also have claims under state tort law, such as assault, battery, false imprisonment, or wrongful death. However, suing police officers isn’t simple—government officials often have “qualified immunity”, a legal doctrine that can shield them from liability unless it’s proven they violated a “clearly established” right.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with a law firm like Harman Law, with experience navigating these legal hurdles.
Alarming Statistics in Georgia and Nationwide
Excessive force isn’t just a national problem—it’s a Georgia problem too. According to Mapping Police Violence:
- In 2022, police killed over 1,000 people nationwide, with a disproportionate number being Black or Latino.
- Georgia ranks among the highest states for fatal police shootings per capita.
- Many of these incidents occur in urban centers like Atlanta, DeKalb County, and Fulton County.
Yet only a small fraction of officers involved in excessive force incidents are prosecuted—making civil lawsuits a vital tool for accountability and change.
How Harman Law Firm Can Help
At Harman Law Firm, we believe no one is above the law—not even those sworn to uphold it. We represent clients throughout Atlanta and across Georgia who have suffered at the hands of law enforcement.
We take action when:
- Police misconduct results in physical or emotional injury
- Excessive force is captured on body cam, surveillance, or bystander video
- Internal complaints go ignored or dismissed
- Families lose loved ones due to unjustified police violence
We’ll investigate the incident thoroughly, gather evidence, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve—whether through a civil rights lawsuit, settlement negotiation, or trial.
Schedule a Free, Confidential Case Evaluation
If you believe you’ve been the victim of police brutality or excessive force in Georgia, don’t stay silent. Let the legal team at Harman Law Firm help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.
Located in Atlanta, GA, we proudly represent clients across the state. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Justice doesn’t happen by accident. It takes action.
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