When you turn on the news, learning of a police shooting may not come as a shock. However, when you receive a call that your loved one was a victim of a police shooting, you may be overwhelmed and confused. Unfortunately, if you learn that they have succumbed to their injuries after being shot by the police, this can turn from a stressful situation to entirely overwhelming. As such, it’s critical to understand how to proceed in these matters to fight for the justice your loved one and family deserve following a police shooting in Oklahoma. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the rights of your loved one and how to pursue a claim with the help of an Oklahoma City civil rights lawyer.
Can We Pursue Legal Action Against the Police Department?
In the event your loved one was fatally shot by the police, you may wish to pursue a wrongful death claim against the department responsible for the death of your loved one. Generally, a wrongful death claim is filed on the grounds that, not only is the victim deceased as a direct result of negligence on behalf of the other party, but had they survived the injuries, they would have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim against the negligent party. In Oklahoma, a wrongful death claim can be filed on behalf of the deceased by their surviving spouse, parents, children, or any other dependents they may have.
You should note that the first step in this process is to file a complaint with the Internal Review Board of the police department responsible for the wrongful death of your loved one. These individuals will conduct their own investigation into the matter first, before you pursue a claim against the negligent department.
What Information Should I Gather After My Loved One is Shot by Police?
When your loved one is the victim of a police shooting, you’ll need to gather a considerable amount of evidence to help prove that their death was unjustified. It can be difficult to obtain this information from the police department on your own, which is why working with an experienced attorney is critical. Generally, once you obtain the services of a lawyer, they can help you file a claim and seek information like body camera footage, witness statements, and subsequent reports.
Unfortunately, pursuing a lawsuit against the police for their negligence in the shooting that led to the death of your loved one can be incredibly difficult. That is why it is critical to enlist the assistance of an experienced attorney with the Jones Firm, PLLC. Our dedicated legal team will do everything in our power to help you recover the compensation you deserve during these complicated and difficult times. Connect with us today to learn how we can represent you and your family in the fight for justice for your loved one.
