Georgetown Police Brutality Lawyer

Georgetown Police Brutality Attorney

Growing up, we are taught that the police are here to protect us and keep us safe. While this is often the case, law enforcement officers can make mistakes and sometimes act from bias. When a police officer uses excessive force against an individual, whether they are guilty or not, injuries can occur, and victims can suffer massive losses. If you or someone you love has faced police brutality, a Georgetown police brutality lawyer is here to help seek justice.

Why Hire a Police Brutality Lawyer From Axelrod & Associates, P.A.?

At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., we have been fighting for men and women whose civil rights are violated since 1998. We take these cases seriously.

Police departments and prison systems do not make it easy to file civil rights violation cases, and you need a skilled Georgetown civil rights lawyer, someone who is experienced with the legal system on your side. Someone who isn’t afraid to stand up to the systems that have been in place for years. Georgetown is no stranger to these cases, and we are here to fight for the outcome you deserve.

Common Types of Police Brutality in Georgetown

In Georgetown, police brutality takes place every day. These situations can often be traced to racial profiling or racial discrimination, as 31% of all cases of police violence in Georgetown County involve a Black individual. At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., we take these cases seriously and are ready to fight for our clients. The most common types of police brutality cases we handle include:

• Jail abuse: Police brutality often occurs in jails or prison systems. When there is a lack of accountability between guards and a present culture of abuse, inmates may find themselves living in inhumane conditions and suffering from physical abuse.
• Unreasonable search and seizure: In South Carolina, you have the right to be free of any kind of unreasonable search and seizure and are also protected against any kind of unlawful intrusion by law enforcement personnel. Police must have lawful grounds on which to detain you and conduct a search of your property. If they do not, it could be seen as a case of police brutality.
• Failure to intervene: Police officers are held to a duty to intervene should they witness another police officer physically abusing someone. If a police officer is present, and in the performance of their official duties, and they do not stop the act of abuse or excessive force, then this can count as police brutality.
• Sexual assault: Not only is sexual assault by a law enforcement officer a crime, but it is also considered an act of police brutality. Many police officers can abuse their position of authority to take part in an action of sexual harassment, assault, rape, or criminal sexual conduct. If you have suffered such actions, you may be able to recover financial compensation.
• Other forms of police brutality: There are also several other forms of police brutality that an individual can suffer. These include threats of violence, intimidation, beatings, use of chokeholds, unnecessary strip searches, and the inappropriate use of nightsticks, tasers, or chemical spray.

If you or a loved one has suffered any kind of police brutality, the team at Axelrod & Associates, P.A. is here to stand up in the face of injustice and fight for you.

What to Do After Being Victimized

In 2024, there were only 10 days during which the police did not shoot and kill someone in the United States. Use of excessive force is only increasing, and when you or a loved one is victimized by police brutality, there are certain steps you need to take to protect yourself. Immediately following an incident of police brutality, you must:

• Document everything related to injuries, including taking photos
• Seek medical attention right away
• Gather the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses
• Consult with an excessive force attorney as soon as possible

FAQs About Georgetown, SC Police Brutality Law

How Can You Prove Police Brutality?

Proving police brutality can be difficult, as the justice system will often try to hide or suppress evidence. At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., we are here to uncover necessary evidence, including body cam footage, medical records, witness statements, and any photos or videos of the act of brutality or your resulting injuries.

Is It Illegal to Record a Police Officer in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, it is legal to record a police officer when they are performing their duties in a public area. However, you are not allowed to interfere with the officer while they are doing their job. Recording an incident of police brutality can prove helpful in a future legal claim.

How Can an Attorney Help Me?

When you hire a police brutality and excessive use of force lawyer, we are here to investigate the facts of the case. We understand police brutality laws and can get the evidence needed when the police or justice system attempts to suppress videos or hide data. We know the legal procedures needed to fight back and can help you seek the compensation you deserve for your losses.

Can Police Brutality Take Place in a Juvenile Detention Facility?

Yes, recent studies have shown that thousands of inmates in juvenile detention facilities face abuse, including both sexual and physical abuse, by police or other employees of the facility. Common forms of excessive use of force or police brutality against juvenile inmates include punching, knocking them to the ground, stomping, striking children in the face, or grabbing child inmates by their genitals.

Protect Your Civil Rights With Axelrod & Associates, P.A. Today

If you or someone you love has been injured by a police officer’s brutality or use of excessive force, whether during an official arrest or while they were incarcerated, you need to hire a police brutality lawyer right away. At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., we are here to help individuals throughout South Carolina and fight to protect their rights. Contact our offices today to learn more and to schedule your consultation with our experienced team.