Category Archives: Police Misconduct
When Police Retaliate: First Amendment Violations You Might Not Recognize
The First Amendment is one of the strongest shields citizens have against government overreach. It protects the freedom to speak, record, criticize, and assemble. Yet in the real world, many Maryland residents don’t realize when law enforcement crosses the line and their constitutional rights are violated. Police misconduct isn’t always dramatic, it can be… Read More »
What Are Your Rights During A Police Stop In Baltimore?
A police stop can happen suddenly. In these moments, it’s easy to feel anxious or unsure about what to say or do. But knowing your constitutional rights can help protect you from unlawful searches, questioning, or arrest. The Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution form the foundation of your protections when… Read More »
How The Maryland Public Information Act Can Help In A Misconduct Case
The Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA) gives citizens the right to access government records, including many types of police documents and body camera footage. For victims of police misconduct, understanding how to use the MPIA can be a powerful tool in building a case. When you believe your rights have been violated by law… Read More »
What Qualified Immunity Means And When Legal Action Makes Sense
Qualified immunity is a legal doctrine that often confuses the public and even some legal professionals. In essence, it protects government officials, including police officers, from being personally sued for actions performed in the course of their duties. This protection is in place as long as those actions do not violate clearly established statutory… Read More »
What Counts As A Constitutional Tort?
The U.S. Constitution guarantees individuals certain rights, including protections against government overreach. When a government official or entity violates those rights, it may give rise to a constitutional tort. This is a legal claim that allows individuals to seek damages for constitutional violations. In Maryland, these cases often arise when government actions cross the… Read More »
Lesser-Known Examples Of Government Misconduct
High-profile issues like police brutality or wrongful imprisonment often come to mind when people think of government misconduct. While these are serious and well-known constitutional violations, they are not the only ways government officials can overstep their authority. In Maryland, there are lesser-known but equally important examples of misconduct that can give rise to… Read More »
Your Rights And Legal Options When It Comes To Police Misconduct
In Baltimore, as in the rest of the United States, law enforcement officers are sworn to serve and protect. But when those in power violate the rights of the very people they’re supposed to protect, it can have devastating consequences. Police misconduct is a serious issue, and if you’ve experienced it, you need to… Read More »
How Bystanders Can Legally Record Police Without Interfering
Cell phone footage has become a powerful tool in exposing police misconduct and protecting civil rights. Many high-profile cases have come to light only because a bystander chose to record a police interaction. Yet in Maryland, as in many states, there are limits on how and when you can film law enforcement officers. Understanding… Read More »
Lessons Learned From Past Police Misconduct Cases In Maryland
Maryland, and particularly Baltimore, has seen a number of high-profile police misconduct cases. These cases have not only shaped public conversation around law enforcement accountability, they’ve also underscored the importance of legal guidance for victims of police abuse. Reviewing these incidents helps us understand the challenges of holding officers accountable and strengthens future cases…. Read More »
Qualified Immunity In Maryland And Police Misconduct
Excessive force, wrongful arrest, and unlawful searches are examples of police misconduct. When these occur, an individual may assume they can immediately pursue legal action. Yet for some, the doctrine of qualified immunity stands in the way. Understanding what qualified immunity is, how it impacts misconduct cases, and how Maryland law is evolving on… Read More »
