Police Shootings
When Deadly Force Is Misused, We Demand Justice
When a police officer uses deadly force, it should be a last resort, not a first response. Tragically, many individuals are shot and killed, or seriously injured by law enforcement during situations that could and should have been handled differently.
At GPJ Legal, we represent families and survivors in civil rights lawsuits involving police shootings. These cases demand clear answers, legal skill, and a trial team that can stand up to institutional pressure. With over 35 years of civil litigation experience, including high-profile civil rights claims, our firm is prepared to investigate and hold the appropriate parties accountable.
When Is a Police Shooting Unjustified?
Law enforcement officers are allowed to use deadly force only when it’s necessary to protect themselves or others from an immediate threat of serious harm. If there was no such threat - or if the response was grossly disproportionate - the shooting may be a violation of your constitutional rights under the Fourth or Fourteenth Amendments.
We handle cases involving:
Shootings of unarmed individuals
Use of deadly force during mental health crises
Misidentification of suspects
Shooting into moving vehicles without justification
Failure to use de-escalation techniques
Deaths resulting from unjustified force after compliance
In many of these situations, body camera footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence become essential to uncovering the truth.
What Makes These Cases More Complex
Police shooting cases often involve:
Delayed or biased internal investigations
Public and media pressure
Attempts to discredit the victim or their family
Inconsistent official reports
Claims of “qualified immunity” by officers or agencies
We know how to cut through institutional defenses, preserve critical evidence, and pursue justice in both state and federal courts. Contact GPJ Legal Today.
What You May Be Entitled To
In a police shooting case, you may be able to recover damages for:
Medical bills (if nonfatal)
Funeral and burial costs
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of companionship
Civil rights violations under Section 1983
Punitive damages (in cases of egregious misconduct)
More than anything, families often want transparency, accountability, and change. We fight for all three.
Why GPJ Legal For Your Police Shooting Case?
✔ Civil Rights and Wrongful Death Experience
We handle the most serious cases - those involving life, liberty, and institutional abuse of power.
✔ Decades of Courtroom Advocacy
These cases are often tried in federal court. We’re ready from day one.
✔ Respected, Strategic, Principled
We are known across New Mexico for clear, ethical advocacy - and results that matter.
What should I do if a loved one was shot by police in New Mexico?
Yes. Families and victims can file civil-rights lawsuits if an officer used deadly force without justification. These claims fall under federal Section 1983 or the New Mexico Civil Rights Act. GPJ Legal represents victims and families throughout the state, investigating every aspect of a shooting - including training failures and command decisions - to hold responsible agencies accountable.
Can I sue the police for a wrongful shooting?
Yes. Families and victims can file civil-rights lawsuits if an officer used deadly force without justification. These claims fall under federal Section 1983 or the New Mexico Civil Rights Act. GPJ Legal represents victims and families throughout the state, investigating every aspect of a shooting - including training failures and command decisions - to hold responsible agencies accountable.
When is police use of deadly force considered excessive?
Deadly force becomes excessive when an officer’s actions were not reasonably necessary to prevent death or serious injury. Courts examine the officer’s perspective, available alternatives, and whether the suspect posed an immediate threat. Unarmed or fleeing individuals often form the basis of excessive-force claims under the Fourth Amendment.
What evidence is important in a police-shooting investigation?
Key evidence includes body-cam and dash-cam footage, dispatch recordings, autopsy findings, ballistic reports, and eyewitness statements. Independent expert analysis often reveals inconsistencies between official reports and forensic results. Acting quickly ensures that crucial data isn’t lost or edited.
Are police departments liable for wrongful shootings?
Departments can be held liable if poor training, inadequate supervision, or defective policies caused the incident. A history of prior excessive-force complaints strengthens claims of systemic failure. Courts may impose financial and policy reforms to prevent future harm.
Do police shootings always result in criminal charges?
No. Officers are rarely criminally charged, even when civil liability exists. The standards for criminal prosecution - such as proving intent beyond a reasonable doubt - are higher than for civil lawsuits. Civil actions can still provide justice through compensation and public accountability.
Can I file a lawsuit if the district attorney clears the officer?
Yes. A civil case is independent of the criminal process. Even if prosecutors decline charges, victims may still pursue damages for wrongful death, negligence, or constitutional violations.
What damages can families recover after a police shooting?
Families may seek funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress damages. In extreme cases, punitive damages may also apply to deter future misconduct.
How long do I have to bring a police-shooting claim in New Mexico?
Most civil-rights claims must be filed within three years, though notice provisions under the Tort Claims Act may apply sooner. Consulting an attorney quickly is crucial to meet every deadline.
Why should I hire a civil-rights attorney after a police shooting?
Police-shooting cases require knowledge of both state and federal law, expert witnesses, and negotiation with government agencies. GPJ Legal’s experienced attorneys handle these complex cases from investigation through trial, ensuring families receive justice and transparency.
