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Rochester Excessive Force

Excessive Force Attorneys in Rochester, NY 

Victim of Police Brutality in Rochester? We’re Here to Lighten Your Burden. 

Experiencing excessive force by law enforcement is more than just an ordeal—it’s a betrayal. You expect protection, but instead, you’re left feeling violated and powerless. If this has happened to you in Rochester, you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed right now, but there’s hope. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’ve been in the trenches with people just like you—fighting back against excessive force and standing up for their rights. We bring a track record of success to every case. With a team experienced in police misconduct legal representation, we’re here to shoulder the burden so you don’t have to. 

A person bending over on a street

Description automatically generatedWhen Police Cross the Line, Your Rights Still Stand 

Cops aren’t above the law, and when they use excessive force, they’ve crossed a line they can’t erase. The law is on your side. The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable force during arrests, stops, or any interactions with police. What’s “reasonable”? It depends on the situation, but if you were hurt without cause, their actions likely weren’t justified. 

New York also has state laws that back you up. Assault and battery aren’t just crimes for civilians—they’re grounds for holding officers accountable, too. And let’s not forget federal protections. Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act gives you the power to sue officers who violate your constitutional rights. 

  • Fourth Amendment Protections: Stops police from using unnecessary or extreme force during arrests or detentions. 
  • State Laws on Misconduct: Let you pursue justice through claims of assault and battery under New York Penal Law. 
  • Section 1983 Lawsuits: A federal route to holding officers accountable for crossing constitutional boundaries. 

When officers break the law, holding law enforcement accountable is essential—not just for your justice but for the protection of others in the future. 

Think Filing a Claim Is Too Hard? We’ve Got You Covered 

Filing an excessive force claim can feel like climbing a mountain. But it’s a climb we’re ready to help you make. First, you’ll need evidence that proves what happened and backs up your story. That’s where we come in. We’ll help you gather the details you need to strengthen your case, including: 

  • Medical Records: Show the full extent of your injuries, from the first ER visit to ongoing treatments. Detailed records make it harder for anyone to downplay your pain. 
  • Witness Statements: People who saw what happened can validate your account and paint a clear picture of the event. 
  • Videos and Photos: Whether it’s a bystander video, a security camera, or your own phone footage, visuals can be the most compelling proof. 
  • Police Reports: While these documents might lean in favor of the officers, they can still provide useful details or reveal inconsistencies. 

Once you’ve got the basics covered, you’ll need to file an excessive force claim properly. If a municipal entity like the Rochester Police Department is involved, filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days is crucial. Sound confusing? Don’t worry—we’ll handle the details so you can focus on moving forward. 

Deadlines Are Tight. Don’t Wait to Take Action. 

Time isn’t on your side when it comes to excessive force by law enforcement cases. In New York, there are strict deadlines you can’t afford to miss. 

  • Notice of Claim: If you’re suing a municipal entity like the Rochester Police Department, you’ve got 90 days to file this critical document under New York’s General Municipal Law. 
  • State Claims: For assault or negligence cases, you’ve got one year and ninety days from the incident, per New York Civil Practice Law and Rules Section 217-a
  • Federal Civil Rights Claims: You’ve got a bit more time—three years—to file a Section 1983 lawsuit. 

Miss these deadlines, and your case could be thrown out before it even begins. That’s why it’s so important to act now. At Horn Wright, LLP, we focus on victim advocacy for police brutality cases, ensuring every detail is handled on time. 

What Happens After You File? Here’s What to Expect 

Filing your claim is just the first step. The journey ahead might seem long, but it’s one worth taking. Here’s how it typically unfolds: 

  • Initial Investigation: Your attorney gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and builds a rock-solid case. 
  • Discovery: Both sides exchange information, like documents, photos, and testimony, to prepare for the next phase. 
  • Settlement Talks: Many cases are resolved here. Your attorney will fight for a fair settlement that acknowledges what you’ve been through. 
  • Trial (If Needed): If a settlement isn’t possible, your case goes to court. While trials can be stressful, they’re also a chance to have your voice heard. 

Every stage of the process can feel overwhelming, but you won’t go through it alone. We’ll guide you every step of the way, making sure you’re prepared for whatever comes next. 

Qualified Immunity Can’t Stop a Strong Case 

You’ve probably heard about “qualified immunity,” and maybe it sounds like an impossible barrier. It’s true—it’s a powerful defense for police officers. But it’s not unbreakable. 

To overcome qualified immunity, you’ll need to prove: 

  1. The officer violated your constitutional rights. 
  2. Those rights were clearly established at the time of the incident. 

It’s not easy, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. At Horn Wright, LLP, our civil rights violations lawyers in Rochester know how to tackle these challenges head-on. With the right evidence and strategy, we’ll fight to make sure qualified immunity doesn’t stand in your way. 

How Much Is Your Case Worth? Let’s Break It Down 

Compensation in excessive force cases is about more than just money. It’s about justice. Here’s what you might be entitled to: 

  • Medical Bills: Covers everything from emergency care to long-term therapy or surgeries. 
  • Lost Wages: If you’ve missed work because of your injuries, you can recover those lost earnings. 
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional trauma, and anxiety you’ve endured. 
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme misconduct, courts may award punitive damages to hold officers accountable. 

Your case isn’t just about numbers—it’s about rebuilding your life and ensuring no one else suffers the way you did. 

Your Case Matters. Let Us Fight for You. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we know how much courage it takes to stand up against excessive force by law enforcement. You’ve already been through enough, and now it’s time for us to step in. As one of the best law firms in America, we bring experience, empathy, and dedication to every case. From the first call to the final outcome, we’re with you every step of the way. 

We’re not just here to represent you; we’re here to listen, to care, and to fight like hell for the justice you deserve. Let’s take the first step together.  

Contact us today for a FREE consultation. 

What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?

Horn Wright, LLP is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

  • Client-Focused Approach
    We’re a client-centered, results-oriented firm. When you work with us, you can have confidence we’ll put your best interests at the forefront of your case – it’s that simple.
  • Creative & Innovative Solutions

    No two cases are the same, and neither are their solutions. Our attorneys provide creative points of view to yield exemplary results.

  • Experienced Attorneys

    We have a team of trusted and respected attorneys to ensure your case is matched with the best attorney possible.

  • Driven By Justice

    The core of our legal practice is our commitment to obtaining justice for those who have been wronged and need a powerful voice.