False Arrests And Your Rights Under Maryland Law
A violation of an individual’s basic civil rights, false arrests can lead to significant emotional and financial distress. If you or someone you know has experienced a false arrest in Maryland, consulting an experienced Baltimore police misconduct lawyer is a critical step toward justice. With skilled legal representation, you can hold the responsible parties accountable.
What Is a False Arrest?
A false arrest occurs when someone is detained or restrained without legal justification. In Maryland, this typically involves law enforcement officers, but it can also include private security personnel. To constitute a false arrest, the detention must lack probable cause or a legal basis.
Probable cause means there is a reasonable belief that a person has committed a crime based on factual evidence. False arrest is not only a civil rights violation under state law but may also be addressed under federal laws, which protects individuals from unconstitutional actions by government officials.
Baltimore has seen several notable false arrest cases that highlight the importance of addressing this issue. For example, individuals have been unlawfully detained during protests, racial profiling incidents, and in situations involving mistaken identity. In some cases, police officers have made arrests without adequate evidence.
One high-profile case involved a Baltimore man wrongfully arrested and charged for a crime he did not commit, based solely on vague descriptions and improper police procedures. Such incidents demonstrate how false arrests can tarnish reputations, disrupt lives, and erode trust in law enforcement.
How Can I Protect My Rights?
When someone is the victim of a false arrest in Maryland, they have the right to seek legal recourse. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unlawful searches and seizures, which includes unwarranted arrests. Additionally, Maryland law provides avenues for filing claims against law enforcement or other responsible parties.
Victims of false arrest may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emotional distress
- Loss of income
- Legal fees
- Reputation damage
Filing a false arrest claim can be complex, requiring a deep understanding of both state laws and federal civil rights protections. As soon as you connect with a legal professional, they will evaluate your case by examining evidence such as arrest reports, body camera footage, and witness statements.
If your Baltimore police misconduct lawyer sees a strong case, they will use the evidence they have reviewed to prove that an arresting officer lacked probable cause or acted outside the scope of their legal authority. Your attorney will also navigate the challenges posed by qualified immunity, a legal doctrine that can shield officers from liability in certain circumstances.
An attorney can also negotiate settlements or pursue litigation to ensure you receive fair compensation for the injustice you’ve endured. They can use your losses to advocate for policy changes to prevent future incidents of false arrest as well, contributing to broader systemic reform.
Why was a recent arrest you were involved in unlawful? Share your story with the legal team at Iamele & Iamele, LLP. False arrests are a serious violation of civil liberties, and victims have the right to fight back. Contact us to book a confidential consultation.
