A police shooting can leave lives shattered in seconds. Whether someone was injured or killed, these incidents often involve more than just a single moment—they reflect a breakdown in trust, responsibility, and safety. When law enforcement uses deadly force, victims and families deserve answers. At Stritmatter Law, we help you hold officers and agencies accountable for their actions and push for lasting change in our communities.
What Rights Do You Have After a Police Shooting?
If you or someone you love was harmed in a police shooting, you have legal rights under both Washington law and federal law. These cases often involve civil claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which allows people to sue government officials, including police officers, for violating constitutional rights.
You may have a claim if:
- The officer used excessive force
- The person shot posed no immediate threat
- The officer failed to provide medical aid after the shooting
- The department failed to train or supervise properly
Through a civil lawsuit, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income
- Funeral or burial costs
- Punitive damages, when misconduct is especially severe
Every case is different. We’ll help you understand your rights and legal options from the start.
Holding Law Enforcement Accountable in Seattle
Bringing a claim against a police officer or department is never easy. Law enforcement agencies have legal protections that make it harder to sue. But accountability is still possible, especially with the right strategy and evidence.
We investigate every angle of a case. That includes:
- Reviewing police reports and use-of-force records
- Requesting body camera and dashcam footage
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting with independent investigators and experts in police procedures
- Filing public records requests
Timing matters in these cases. In Washington, the government must be notified before claims are filed against an agency. We help make sure every deadline is met and every legal hurdle is addressed.
Seeking Justice Is About More Than Compensation
Money doesn’t heal trauma. For many families, what matters most is making sure this never happens again, to their loved ones or anyone else.
Legal action can do more than provide financial relief. It can also:
- Pressure departments to improve training and oversight
- Expose patterns of misconduct or racial bias
- Inspire public awareness and media coverage
- Lead to policy changes at the city or state level
These cases send a message. They hold those in power accountable and remind them that no one is above the law. We’re proud to stand with people who want both justice and reform.
What to Do If You’ve Been Harmed by Police Use of Force
The hours and days after a police shooting are often filled with fear, grief, and confusion. Still, there are steps you can take to protect your rights and build a strong case.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Do not talk to police investigators without a lawyer
- Write down everything you remember
- Preserve physical evidence, like clothing, photos, and video
- Gather contact information from witnesses when possible
- Contact an attorney as soon as possible
In Washington, you usually have to file a notice of claim before suing a government agency. Missing this step or filing too late can hurt your case. We’ll take care of the legal work so you can focus on healing.
Why Choose Stritmatter Law?
At Stritmatter Law, we’ve spent decades holding powerful institutions accountable, from government agencies to large corporations. We know how to build strong cases, present them in court, and fight for meaningful results.
But just as important, we treat every client with dignity and respect. We listen, we believe you, and we’re committed to telling your story with care and courage. If you’re ready to be heard, we’re ready to help.
We Help You Be Heard
You deserve to know what happened—and why. You deserve justice, support, and a path forward. Whether you’re seeking accountability, change, or both, we’re here to stand beside you. Call Stritmatter Law today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Let’s talk about what happened and how we can help.
