People should be able to trust and believe in Phoenix police officers. These law enforcement professionals are public servants with an obligation to keep our best interests in mind when carrying out their duties.
Phoenix police are not allowed to violate the civil rights of citizens, and when they do, those victims are entitled to right these wrongs through the judicial system. A Phoenix killed by police lawyer from Zanes Law can help victims understand their options and how to hold law enforcement responsible for their actions. With nearly 20 years of experience, our lawyers take on the most challenging cases and deliver the best results.
Phoenix Police Rank #1 In Deadly Use of Force
More than 1,000 people are killed by police in the United States annually, according to Campaign Zero. The Mapping Police Violence database tracks police deadly use of force and cites nearly 10,000 incidents over the past several years. According to this database, the Phoenix Police Department ranks number one in deadly use of force compared to the other top ten most populous cities in the United States.
The Arizona Republic reported that every five days, someone is shot by an Arizona police officer. Their reporting showed that there were 600 police shootings, officers fired their guns 627 times, and 353 people died. This data is a troubling trend for Arizona and Phoenix residents.
For a free legal consultation with a killed by police lawyer serving Phoenix, call 866-499-8989
When Can Phoenix Police Use Deadly Force?
Under Arizona law, police can only use deadly force when necessary. Examples include the following:
- For self-defense or to defend another individual from someone who is using or is about to use deadly force
- While arresting or stopping an individual from fleeing who the officer believes committed (or is attempting to commit) a felony involving a deadly weapon, or someone who is an imminent threat to another person based on their past/present behavior
- Lawfully suppressing a riot involving a person with a deadly weapon
The Arizona statute §12-820.02 states that “Unless a public employee acting within the scope of the public employee’s employment intended to cause injury or was grossly negligent, neither a public entity nor a public employee is liable” for the use of deadly force. This can make building a case tricky, which is why working with a killed by police attorney in Phoenix is so essential.
The good news is that Arizona citizens are protected under Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act of 1871.
Phoenix Killed by Police Lawyer Near Me 866-499-8989
What Is Section 1983?
This law comes into play when someone who acts as a state or local law representative is accused of depriving a person of their civil rights as outlined in the United States Constitution. This law allows the victim to file a lawsuit for such injustices. Several factors are considered for a judge to hear a case like this and include the following:
- Whether the person accused was on duty
- If the person accused was wearing a police uniform
- Whether the accused used handcuffs or other law enforcement equipment
- If the accused person arrested an individual
- Whether the accused person stated that they were an officer or showed a police badge
Click to contact our Phoenix Civil Rights & Liberties Lawyers today
Can I File a Lawsuit Against Phoenix Police?
Yes, a victim can sue a Phoenix police officer. Victims can sue the entire police department, and other government officials with ties to the injustice claimed. All of this is dependent on what can be proven.
The first step is issuing a notice if a victim plans to bring a claim against a public official. Notices must be sent to public officials within 180 days of the altercation. The notice must contain an apparent demand, information stating the basis for the claim, and supporting information demonstrating negligence and damages. A settlement may be reached between parties if the case is strong enough.
However, if the public entity fails to respond within 60 days of receiving the notice, they may view it as weak and baseless. If this happens, the victim can file a lawsuit within one year.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Why You Need a Phoenix Killed by Police Attorney
The amount and frequency of police brutality in Arizona and Phoenix are startling. Being the top major city in the U.S. for police deadly use of force is not something worth celebrating. Instead, it should be a cause for alarm.
What can you do if you or someone you know is a victim of this seemingly endless blue wave of injustice? Civil rights and liberties are sacred. They are something that belongs to all of us, not just some of us.
While those victimized by police may feel hopeless, they need to work with a Phoenix killed by police attorney more than anyone else because it is their best chance at fighting back and winning.
Contact Zanes Law for Help with Police Brutality and Civil Rights Violations in Phoenix
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a civil rights violation or police brutality in Phoenix, speak with a Phoenix killed by police attorney, so they can provide immediate assistance and deliver the justice and compensation deserved.
We have client-focused and results-driven killed by police lawyers in Phoenix who help families through tough times. Contact us online today for a free case evaluation.
Call or text 866-499-8989 or complete a
Free Case Evaluation form