Police Misconduct
Abuse of Authority Demands Accountability
Law enforcement plays a vital role in keeping our communities safe - but when officers abuse that power, the damage can be profound. Misconduct by police not only harms individuals, it erodes public trust and undermines the justice system itself.
At GPJ Legal, we represent individuals who have been harmed by police misconduct in all forms, from illegal searches and false arrests to racial profiling and use of excessive force. With over 35 years of civil trial experience, we bring strategic focus, investigative strength, and a relentless commitment to accountability when rights are violated.
What Is Police Misconduct?
Police misconduct occurs when officers act outside the boundaries of the law or use their authority in a way that violates a person’s constitutional rights. This can involve both physical abuse and procedural violations.
Examples include:
False arrest or wrongful imprisonment
Unlawful search and seizure
Fabrication of evidence
Use of excessive or deadly force
Racial profiling or discriminatory enforcement
Retaliation for exercising free speech or recording police
Failing to intervene in another officer’s misconduct
If you believe an officer overstepped their authority and caused you harm, you may be entitled to legal recourse through a civil rights claim.
What Are Your Legal Options?
Victims of police misconduct may have grounds to file a federal lawsuit under Section 1983, seeking compensation and justice for constitutional violations. These cases often involve complex legal defenses, including qualified immunity, which shields officers unless their actions violated clearly established rights.
GPJ Legal is equipped to challenge those defenses and pursue your case in both state and federal court when necessary.
What Can a Claim Help You Recover?
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to recover:
Compensation for physical and emotional harm
Legal costs and medical expenses
Lost income due to wrongful arrest or detention
Punitive damages (in cases of egregious abuse)
Court orders to prevent future misconduct
We tailor every case to reflect the real impact on your life and pursue full accountability for those responsible.
Why GPJ Legal for your police misconduct case?
✔ Civil Rights Focus with Real Trial Experience
We don’t just negotiate—we litigate. Our firm is built for high-stakes, constitutionally complex cases.
✔ Deep Understanding of Both Sides
We’ve represented plaintiffs and defended public institutions. That perspective helps us build stronger, more strategic claims.
✔ Respected Across New Mexico’s Legal Community
We’re known for ethical, effective advocacy—and for not backing down when justice is at stake.
What is considered police misconduct in New Mexico?
Yes. Under Section 1983 of federal law and the New Mexico Civil Rights Act, victims can file lawsuits against officers or agencies that violate constitutional protections. GPJ Legal represents individuals harmed by unlawful policing, holding departments accountable for poor training, negligence, or deliberate misconduct.
Can I sue a police officer or department for misconduct?
Yes. Under Section 1983 of federal law and the New Mexico Civil Rights Act, victims can file lawsuits against officers or agencies that violate constitutional protections. GPJ Legal represents individuals harmed by unlawful policing, holding departments accountable for poor training, negligence, or deliberate misconduct.
What evidence helps prove police misconduct?
Strong cases rely on body-camera or dashboard footage, eyewitness testimony, photos of injuries, and official police reports. Promptly requesting copies of these records prevents deletion or alteration. An attorney can issue preservation demands to ensure crucial evidence remains intact.
Is excessive force the same as police misconduct?
Excessive force is one category of misconduct but not the only one. Other examples include racial profiling, unlawful detention, or failure to provide medical care to those in custody. Each can support a claim if it violates a clearly established legal right.
Can police departments be held liable for an officer’s actions?
Yes. Departments may face liability for failing to train, supervise, or discipline officers appropriately. A “pattern or practice” of ignoring complaints can show systemic negligence. Courts often hold both the individual officer and the employing agency responsible when misconduct stems from inadequate policies.
What damages can I recover in a police-misconduct lawsuit
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages if the behavior was malicious or reckless. Victims can also seek attorney’s fees under federal law. The amount depends on injury severity and evidence strength
Can I still file a claim if criminal charges were filed against me?
Yes. Even if you were arrested or charged, you can bring a civil rights claim if officers used unlawful force or violated due process. GPJ Legal reviews case records to separate legitimate enforcement from unconstitutional conduct.
How long do I have to file a police-misconduct claim in New Mexico?
Typically, you must file within three years under the state Civil Rights Act, though certain federal claims may differ. Acting quickly helps your lawyer collect records before agencies destroy or restrict access to them.
What should I do right after experiencing police misconduct?
Document everything—names, badge numbers, witnesses, and photographs of injuries. File a written complaint but consult a lawyer before giving detailed statements. Immediate legal guidance ensures your rights are preserved and retaliation risks minimized.
Why is hiring an experienced civil-rights attorney important?
Police misconduct cases are complex and often defended aggressively by government attorneys. GPJ Legal’s experience with New Mexico and federal civil-rights law ensures victims receive skilled advocacy, thorough investigation, and the best chance at full justice.
