Excessive Force by Law Enforcement: How Victims Can Pursue Accountability

Law enforcement officers are granted authority to maintain order and ensure public safety — but with that power comes the duty to use force responsibly. Unfortunately, far too often in California, that line is crossed.

When officers use unnecessary or excessive force, the consequences can be devastating: permanent injuries, emotional trauma, or even death. These incidents erode public trust and violate the constitutional rights of those they are sworn to protect.

At the Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC, we fight for victims of police brutality and excessive force, holding agencies accountable and demanding justice for those harmed by abuse of power.

Defining Excessive Force Under the Law

“Excessive force” occurs when a police officer uses more physical force than is reasonably necessary to handle a situation.

Under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, citizens are protected from unreasonable seizures — which includes unreasonable or unjustified force by police.

Courts use what’s called the “objective reasonableness” standard to determine whether force was excessive. Factors include:

• The severity of the alleged crime
• Whether the suspect posed an immediate threat
• Whether the person was resisting arrest or attempting to flee
• The totality of the circumstances at the time

If the force used was disproportionate to the situation, it violates constitutional protections and may give rise to a civil rights lawsuit under 42 U.S.C. § 1983.

Examples of Excessive Force in California

Excessive force can take many forms, from physical assault to misuse of weapons or restraints. Common examples include:

• Unnecessary use of batons, tasers, or pepper spray on compliant individuals
• Beatings, chokeholds, or dangerous restraint tactics
• Improper firearm use or “accidental” discharges
• Rough handling during arrest or while handcuffed
• Failure to intervene when other officers use excessive force
• Retaliation for recording or questioning police conduct

Even when the injuries seem minor, these actions can amount to serious violations of civil rights.

The Human Impact of Police Brutality

Excessive force doesn’t just leave physical scars — it can destroy lives. Victims often suffer:

• Physical injuries such as broken bones, lacerations, or traumatic brain injuries
• Emotional and psychological trauma, including anxiety, PTSD, and depression
• Loss of employment or inability to work due to injury
• Public humiliation and lasting stigma
• Distrust in law enforcement and fear of future encounters

No one should endure violence at the hands of those sworn to protect them. Holding officers accountable is not just about one case — it’s about restoring dignity and rebuilding community trust.

How to Prove an Excessive Force Claim

Proving police misconduct requires strong evidence and skilled legal advocacy. A civil rights attorney can help by:

1. Securing evidence early — such as body camera footage, surveillance video, and witness statements.
2. Reviewing police reports for inconsistencies or false claims.
3. Working with medical experts to document injuries and causation.
4. Consulting law enforcement and use-of-force experts to demonstrate that the officer’s actions were unreasonable.
5. Filing a lawsuit under federal and state law to seek compensation and justice.

These cases are often complex and heavily defended by police unions and government agencies — but the right legal team can uncover the truth.

Legal Remedies for Victims of Police Violence

Victims of excessive force may be entitled to several types of damages, including:

• Medical expenses for treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional trauma
• Punitive damages to punish and deter misconduct
• Attorney’s fees and legal costs

In some cases, lawsuits can also lead to policy changes and public accountability, ensuring that others are not subjected to the same abuse.

Recent Civil Rights Victories and Proven Trial Success

Christian Contreras has built a reputation as one of California’s most accomplished civil rights trial attorneys, particularly in cases involving police misconduct and excessive force.

His firm’s track record includes:

• $6,000,000 jury verdict in a police shooting case (zero pretrial offer)
• $1,035,000 jury verdict in another excessive force case
• Multiple settlements and verdicts for victims of unconstitutional police violence

These results demonstrate not only courtroom skill but a deep commitment to justice and reform.

Why Accountability Matters for All Californians

Excessive force is not just a personal tragedy — it’s a public issue. Every act of police brutality damages community trust and undermines the legitimacy of law enforcement.

By pursuing legal action, victims help:

• Expose patterns of abuse and misconduct within departments
• Enforce constitutional standards on use of force
• Encourage proper training and supervision
• Drive institutional change through verdicts and settlements

Accountability protects not only the victim but everyone who values fairness and safety in their community.

The Role of a Civil Rights Attorney

Civil rights cases require not just legal knowledge but courage and commitment. At the Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC, we:

• Investigate every case thoroughly and independently
• Confront official misconduct with facts and expert testimony
• Represent clients with compassion and strength from start to finish
• Take cases to trial when agencies refuse to do what’s right

Christian Contreras and his team handle each case with the understanding that justice for one victim can lead to change for many.

Conclusion: Standing Up to Abuse of Power

Excessive force has no place in a just society. When officers misuse their power, they not only harm individuals — they betray the very principles of justice and equality they are sworn to uphold.

The Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC is dedicated to giving victims of police violence a powerful voice in the courtroom. With a proven record of success and unwavering dedication to civil rights, Christian Contreras fights to ensure that no abuse of authority goes unanswered.

If you or someone you love has been injured or traumatized by police misconduct in California, it’s time to act. Contact our firm today for a confidential consultation and let us help you seek the justice and accountability you deserve.