Fight Back Against Police Brutality & Excessive Force in California

Common examples of police brutality and excessive force include:

• Punching, kicking, or beating a suspect who is already restrained
• Use of chokeholds or neck restraints (including knee-on-neck techniques)
• Tasering or pepper-spraying individuals who pose no threat
• Shooting unarmed individuals
• Unjustified use of deadly force
• Failing to intervene when a fellow officer uses excessive force
• Use of force during peaceful protests
• Abusive treatment during traffic stops or while in custody

Understanding Your Rights

If you are a victim of police misconduct, you have legal avenues to pursue justice. Federal law—specifically 42 U.S. Code § 1983—allows individuals to sue government officials, including police officers, for civil rights violations. State law may also provide additional causes of action, such as claims for assault, battery, false imprisonment, or wrongful death.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency and long-term medical care
• Psychological trauma and emotional distress
• Lost income and future earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)
• Punitive damages (when the misconduct is particularly egregious)

How Contreras Law Can Help

Pursuing a civil rights lawsuit against a police department is challenging—but with the right legal team, justice is possible. Contreras Law brings years of litigation experience in complex and high-profile cases involving police violence and abuse of power. Our attorneys work with expert investigators, forensic analysts, and medical professionals to uncover the truth and build strong, evidence-based claims.

We Are Known For:

• Meticulously reviewing body cam footage, police reports, and witness testimony
• Filing lawsuits against individual officers and entire departments
• Challenging attempts to delay, intimidate, or cover up misconduct
• Pushing for institutional reform through legal action
• Representing clients in both state and federal court

We’re not afraid to take on powerful law enforcement agencies—and we have the courtroom record to prove it.

What to Do If You Experience Police Brutality

Taking the right steps after an incident of police violence can protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here's what you should do:

1. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries. Document all treatment.
2. Take photographs of your injuries and any damage to property or surroundings.
3. Write down everything you remember—names, badge numbers, time, location, and what was said or done.
4. Get contact information from witnesses, if possible.
5. Do not speak with police department investigators without legal representation.
6. Call Contreras Law as soon as possible. Time limits for filing a claim are strict—don’t delay.

Justice Starts with a Call

At Contreras Law, we believe in protecting the dignity and rights of every person. We represent clients throughout California, including Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Orange County. Whether you were harmed during a protest, a routine stop, or while in custody, we are here to listen, investigate, and fight for you.

Every case matters. Every client deserves justice.

Contact Contreras Law today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward holding abusive officers accountable.