POLICE BRUTALITY LAWYER AUSTIN TX
Police brutality — excessive force, wrongful arrest, and civil rights violations by Austin Police Department officers — is actionable under 42 U.S.C. § 1983. These cases are challenging: qualified immunity protects officers unless they violated clearly established law, and municipal liability requires showing a policy or failure to train. Our Austin police brutality attorneys know how to defeat qualified immunity and build § 1983 cases.
What We Can Help You With
Excessive force claims
Section 1983 claims when APD officers use force beyond what is objectively reasonable
Wrongful arrest
Fourth Amendment claims when police arrest without probable cause
Malicious prosecution
Claims when prosecution proceeds without probable cause and terminates in your favor
Unlawful search and seizure
Fourth Amendment violations — illegal searches of home, vehicle, or person
First Amendment retaliation
Government retaliation for protected speech, assembly, or recording police
Municipal liability
Suing the City of Austin for unconstitutional policies, inadequate training, or failure to discipline
Frequently Asked Questions
What is qualified immunity?▾
Qualified immunity protects officers unless they violated clearly established constitutional law. Our attorneys identify cases where immunity does not apply — excessive force cases with clear constitutional violations are often the strongest.
Can I sue the City of Austin for police misconduct?▾
Yes, under Monell — the city is liable when the violation resulted from an official policy, widespread custom, or inadequate training program. These cases require evidence of systemic failures.
What evidence is critical in a police brutality case?▾
Body camera footage, dashcam, bystander video, medical records documenting injuries, the officer's disciplinary history, and APD use-of-force policies are all critical. Request records preservation immediately.
What is the statute of limitations for police brutality claims in Texas?▾
2 years from the date of the constitutional violation. File promptly — evidence preservation and witness availability deteriorate quickly.