Chicago Excessive Force & Police Brutality Attorney

Law enforcement officers—whether local, state, or federal—whether local, state, or federal—are permitted to use only the amount of force that is objectively reasonable under the circumstances. The Fourth Amendment protects individuals—citizens and non-citizens alike—from unreasonable seizures, including the use of excessive force during arrests, detentions, or other encounters with law enforcement. Illinois law likewise prohibits the unjustified use of force against individuals.

Excessive force occurs when police use more force than is reasonably necessary to effectuate an arrest, conduct a detention, or control a situation. Striking, tasing, shooting, or otherwise using force against a person who is compliant, restrained, or poses no immediate threat violates the Fourth Amendment. Under Illinois common law, the unjustified or offensive use of force by a police officer constitutes battery, regardless of whether criminal charges are filed.

When excessive force or battery occurs, the officers involved may be held personally liable, and the government entity that employs them may also be responsible under federal or state law. Sadelski Law represents individuals who were subjected to excessive force by pursuing claims under the Fourth Amendment and Illinois common law against the involved officers and responsible government entities in federal or state court to hold them accountable and seek full compensation for violations of constitutional and statutory rights.