Police misconduct

The police perform a vital and critical role in British society. However sometimes things can go wrong, and due to negligence or ‘over zealous’ policing, injury or harm is suffered. At Emmott Snell & Co, we can assist you in seeking justice and accountability. This is often reflected in the form of ‘damages’ or compensation.

Emmott Snell Solicitors has a contract with the Legal Services Commission to undertake this specialist area of work. If legal aid is not available, we may be able to act for your on a ‘no win, no fee’ agreement.

We are proud to represent people who have been wronged and have suffered as a result of police misconduct.

How can we help?

1. A civil claim

Where there is good evidence of police misconduct, and you have suffered loss or injury, a civil action may be possible. The outcome of a successful claim against the police is compensation. How much you will get will depend on the extent of wrongdoing by the police, and how badly you were harmed.

You may be able to pursue a civil action against the police if:

• You have been a victim of unreasonable force used by a police officer and have suffered notable injury
• You were held by the police for longer than was necessary or allowed by law
• You have evidence to show the police prosecuted you ‘maliciously’
• An officer caused damage to your property unlawfully
• You were unreasonably arrested or were the victim of racial discrimination by an officer
• Your rights were violated under the Human Rights Act

In addition to basic damages it is possible you may be awarded:

• Aggravated Damages – these are damages for hurt to feelings injured feelings
• Exemplary damages – these are punitive in nature intended to address the conduct of a police officer who has acted oppressively or unconstitutionally

3. A Police complaint

We can advise you and support you in a complaint to the Independent Police Complaints Commission against the police. This may be in addition to or a civil claim or a ‘stand alone’ remedy. It is not usual to obtain compensation following a successful police complaint. We can assist with every stage of the process and liaise with the investigating officer if necessary. You do not necessarily have a civil claim or grounds for a complaint just because you feel dissatisfied with the way the police have treated you. The police have wide and extensive powers.

A complaint or civil action can lead to disciplinary or criminal proceedings against a particular party.

We can give you clear and concise advice to ensure you obtain proper and appropriate redress, and the highest level of compensation.