Author: Jerry L. Steering, Esq.

Excessive Force Cases: When Can Victims Seek Justice?

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Police officers are authorized to use force when necessary—but what happens when they cross the line? Excessive force cases present complex legal challenges, yet victims can and do win justice through civil rights lawsuits. Understanding the legal standards and real-world outcomes is crucial for anyone who has suffered police brutality. 

At Steering Law, we specialize in excessive force cases and have secured significant settlements for victims across California, including in San Diego County, Newport Beach, Lake Forest, and Irvine. If you believe an officer used unreasonable force against you, schedule a free case evaluation with our team today.

The Legal Standard: When Is Force Considered “Excessive”? 

The landmark 1989 Supreme Court case Graham v. Connor established the “objective reasonableness” standard for evaluating police force. This means: 

  • Force must be judged based on what a reasonable officer would do in that situation. 
  • Courts consider: 
    •   The severity of the suspected crime 
    •   Whether the suspect posed an immediate threat 
    •   Whether they were resisting or fleeing 

However, this vague standard often protects officers. For example, in 2021, the Ninth Circuit granted immunity to an officer who shot a homeless man holding a knife, ruling that the threat wasn’t “clearly unreasonable.” Such rulings show why having an experienced civil rights attorney is essential to challenge these defenses. 

Landmark Excessive Force Cases & Victim Compensation 

Despite qualified immunity hurdles, many excessive force victims have won justice: 

 National Cases 

  • George Floyd’s Family ($27 Million Settlement) 
    • After Derek Chauvin murdered Floyd in 2020, Minneapolis paid one of the largest police misconduct settlements in history. 
  • Stephon Clark’s Family ($2.4 Million) 
    • Sacramento settled after officers shot Clark 8 times in his backyard, mistaking his phone for a gun. 

 California Cases 

  • Los Angeles ($8 Million Settlement) 
    • In 2023, LAPD paid after bodycam footage showed officers beating a man during a traffic stop. 
  • San Diego County ($1.5 Million) 
    • A local sheriff’s deputy was found liable for unnecessarily tasing a mentally ill man. 

At Steering Law, we’ve achieved similar results, including: 

✔ $1,000,000 settlement for a client brutally beaten during an unlawful arrest 

✔ $750,000 recovery in a case where officers used a taser excessively 

These cases prove that justice is possible—but only with the right legal strategy. 

Why Excessive Force Cases Succeed (or Fail) 

 Key Factors That Help Victims Win 

  1. Bodycam/Dashcam Footage – Video evidence is the strongest proof of unreasonable force. 
  2. Witness Testimony – Bystanders can contradict officers’ false reports. 
  3. Prior Complaints Against the Officer – A history of brutality undermines their credibility. 

 Common Police Defenses 

  • “I Feared for My Life” – Officers often claim subjective fear, even when unreasonable. 
  • Qualified Immunity – Courts dismiss cases if no prior ruling addressed nearly identical conduct. 

This is why specialized attorneys matter. At Steering Law, we: 

  • Aggressively obtain bodycam footage before it disappears 
  • Work with use-of-force experts to debunk police claims 
  • Argue exceptions to qualified immunity when possible 

Southern California Residents: Know Your Rights 

Excessive force occurs in every community, including: 

  • San Diego County – Sheriff’s deputies have faced multiple lawsuits over taser misuse and beatings. 
  • Newport Beach & Irvine – Wealthy areas don’t exempt police from misconduct. A 2022 case revealed Newport Beach officers punching a subdued suspect. 
  • Lake Forest – Even lower-crime cities see force escalations during routine stops. 

If you were injured by police in these areas, don’t assume “it’s just your word against theirs.” Evidence like surveillance footage and witness phones often exist—we know how to find it. 

 What to Do If You’re a Victim 

  1. Seek Medical Care – Document injuries immediately. 
  2. Preserve Evidence – Save torn clothing, photos of bruises, and witness contacts. 
  3. Contact a Lawyer FAST – Departments delete bodycam footage in as little as 30 days. 

 Schedule a Free Consultation with Steering Law  

Police departments have teams of lawyers working to protect officers. You need equal firepower. Steering Law offers: 

✅ Free case reviews – No obligation, just honest advice. 

✅ No fees unless we win – You pay nothing upfront. 

✅ Local expertise – We’ve litigated cases across Southern California. 

Don’t let time run out. Visit our website or call us today. 

Key Takeaways: 

  • Excessive force cases hinge on “objective reasonableness” (Graham v. Connor). 
  • Video evidence and expert testimony are critical to overcoming qualified immunity. 
  • San Diego, Newport Beach, Irvine, and Lake Forest residents: Local cases prove misconduct happens everywhere. 
  • Act now—contact Steering Law for a free consultation.

Can You Sue the Police? Understanding Qualified Immunity

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Qualified immunity is one of the biggest obstacles victims face when seeking justice for police misconduct. This legal doctrine shields officers from lawsuits unless they violate “clearly established” constitutional rights—a vague standard that has allowed many abuses to go unpunished. However, recent legal challenges and reforms have begun to limit its reach, creating new opportunities for accountability. 

At Steering Law, we specialize in overcoming qualified immunity defenses in police misconduct cases. If you believe your rights were violated, schedule a free case evaluation with our team to explore your legal options. 

What Is Qualified Immunity? 

Qualified immunity protects government officials, including police officers, from being sued unless their actions violate a constitutional right that was “clearly established” in prior court rulings. This means: 

  • Even if an officer’s conduct was unethical or harmful, they may avoid liability if no nearly identical case already exists. 
  • Courts often dismiss lawsuits early, preventing victims from getting a jury trial. 
  • Police departments frequently use this defense to avoid accountability for excessive force, wrongful arrests, and other abuses. 

For example, in a 2020 Ninth Circuit case, officers received qualified immunity after shooting a man who was crawling on the ground with his hands up—because no prior case had addressed that exact scenario. Such rulings have allowed systemic injustices to persist. 

Recent Challenges to Qualified Immunity 

While qualified immunity remains a significant barrier, legal developments have created cracks in its armor: 

 1. State-Level Reforms 

Some states have taken action to limit immunity: 

  • California’s AB 931 (2021) made it easier to sue officers for excessive force by lowering the legal standard. 
  • Colorado’s police reform bill (2020) eliminated qualified immunity entirely for state claims. 

These changes show growing recognition that the doctrine often prevents justice. 

 2. Supreme Court Signals 

Though the Supreme Court has upheld qualified immunity, some justices have expressed doubts. In 2022’s Tanzin v. Tanvir, Justice Clarence Thomas criticized the doctrine as “unmoored from text and history.” Such statements suggest future challenges could succeed. 

 3. Public Pressure & Landmark Cases 

High-profile police killings, like George Floyd’s murder in 2020, have fueled demands for reform. While federal legislation to end qualified immunity stalled, cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco have faced increased scrutiny over officers evading consequences due to immunity claims. 

How Steering Law Fights Qualified Immunity in Police Misconduct Cases 

Despite these challenges, qualified immunity remains a formidable defense. That’s why having an experienced legal team is critical. At Steering Law, we: 

  • Identify “clearly established” rights violations by researching precedents that match your case. 
  • Argue for exceptions when officers act with obvious malice or recklessness. 
  • Use bodycam footage, witness testimony, and expert analysis to prove misconduct. 

Our track record includes overcoming immunity defenses to secure justice, such as: 

  • A $1,000,000 settlement for a client subjected to excessive force during an unlawful arrest. 
  • A $450,000 recovery in a case where officers conducted an illegal search. 

We know how to build strong arguments that challenge immunity claims—giving victims a real chance at justice. 

What to Do If You’ve Been a Victim of Police Misconduct 

If you believe officers violated your rights, take these steps: 

  1. Document everything – Get officers’ names, badge numbers, and witness contact info. 
  2. Preserve evidence – Save bodycam footage requests, medical records, and photos of injuries. 
  3. Act quickly – Statutes of limitations restrict how long you have to file a claim. 

Most importantly, consult a lawyer immediately. The sooner we can investigate, the better our chances of defeating qualified immunity. 

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with Steering Law 

Qualified immunity makes police misconduct cases difficult—but not impossible. With the right legal strategy, victims can still hold officers accountable. 

At Steering Law, we offer: 

✅ Free, confidential consultations to review your case. 

✅ No fees unless we win – You pay nothing upfront. 

✅ Aggressive advocacy to challenge immunity claims. 

Don’t let qualified immunity stop you from seeking justice. Contact us today at [https://steeringlaw.com/](https://steeringlaw.com/) to schedule your free case evaluation. 

Key Takeaways: 

  • Qualified immunity often blocks victims from suing police, even for clear abuses. 
  • State reforms and legal challenges are slowly weakening the doctrine. 
  • Steering Law has successfully overcome immunity defenses in past cases.  – Act fast—evidence disappears quickly. Schedule a free consultation today.
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Body Worn Camera on deputy 3 - Copy

Body Cameras & Police Accountability: Do They Help Cases?

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

The widespread adoption of police body cameras was meant to increase transparency and hold law enforcement accountable. While footage can be crucial evidence in misconduct cases, the reality is more complicated. Departments sometimes withhold or “lose” recordings, and even when available, bodycam videos don’t always tell the full story. If you’ve been a victim of police misconduct, understanding how body camera footage can help—or hurt—your case is critical. 

At Steering Law, we specialize in police misconduct litigation and have successfully used bodycam evidence to secure justice for our clients. If you believe officers violated your rights, schedule a free case evaluation with our team today. 

When Body Camera Footage Helps Prove Misconduct 

Body cameras can be powerful tools for exposing police abuse. In many cases, footage has: 

  • Contradicted officers’ false reports – Video evidence often reveals discrepancies between what police claim happened and what actually occurred. 
  • Shown excessive force – Clear recordings of unjustified violence, such as unnecessary beatings or improper use of weapons, can make or break a case. 
  • Proven wrongful arrests – Footage may show that officers lacked probable cause, leading to dismissed charges or civil rights claims. 

For example, in 2023, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) settled a $10 million lawsuit after bodycam footage showed officers brutally beating a Black motorist during a traffic stop. The video directly contradicted the officers’ claims that the man had resisted arrest, leading to disciplinary action and a substantial payout for the victim. 

At Steering Law, we’ve successfully used bodycam evidence to secure favorable outcomes for clients, including a $750,000 settlement in a case where footage revealed officers used excessive force during an unlawful detention. When available, we aggressively obtain and analyze recordings to build the strongest possible case. 

Challenges: When Police Departments Withhold or “Lose” Footage 

Despite their potential for transparency, body cameras don’t always guarantee accountability. Common issues include: 

 1. “Missing” or Deleted Recordings 

Some departments claim technical failures or “accidental” deletions when footage could expose misconduct. In 2022, the San Francisco Police Department faced scrutiny after bodycam video from a controversial arrest mysteriously disappeared. Without the recording, the victim’s legal team had to rely on witness testimony—a much harder path to justice. 

 2. Delayed or Selective Release 

Police agencies sometimes delay releasing footage or only provide edited clips that favor their narrative. In Oakland, a 2021 case revealed that officers had muted their bodycams before using force, raising suspicions of intentional evidence suppression. 

 3. Officers Failing to Activate Cameras 

Despite policies requiring bodycams to be on during interactions, some officers “forget” to turn them on—especially in incidents where misconduct is likely. 

These tactics make it harder to prove misconduct, but an experienced civil rights attorney can fight to recover footage or use other evidence to support your claim. 

How Steering Law Handles Bodycam Evidence in Misconduct Cases 

When you work with our firm, we take immediate action to secure and analyze bodycam footage, including: 

  • Filing public records requests to obtain recordings before they’re lost or destroyed. 
  • Working with forensic experts to recover “deleted” footage when possible. 
  • Comparing video with police reports to expose inconsistencies. 
  • Using witness testimony and other evidence when footage is unavailable. 

Our track record speaks for itself. In one case, we obtained bodycam footage that showed officers fabricating charges against a client, leading to a $500,000 settlement. In another, we proved that a department had intentionally withheld critical video, resulting in disciplinary action against the officers involved. 

What to Do If You Believe Police Misconduct Occurred 

If you’ve been mistreated by law enforcement, take these steps to protect your rights: 

  1. Document everything – Write down officers’ names, badge numbers, and witness contact information. 
  2. Seek medical attention – If injured, get treated immediately and keep records. 
  3. Preserve evidence – Save torn clothing, photos of injuries, or damaged property. 
  4. Contact a lawyer immediately – The sooner we can request bodycam footage, the better. 

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with Steering Law 

Bodycam footage can be a game-changer in police misconduct cases—but only if it’s obtained and used correctly. At Steering Law, we know how to navigate these challenges and fight for the justice you deserve.  Don’t wait—evidence disappears quickly. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Fontana

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Fontana residents deserve protection and respect from law enforcement. Unfortunately, instances of police misconduct can occur. Understanding your rights is essential.

What is Police Misconduct?

Police misconduct includes actions by law enforcement that violate the rights of individuals. This can include various forms of abuse or illegal activity.

Examples of Police Misconduct in Fontana

  • Excessive Force: Situations where officers apply more force than necessary during an arrest.
  • Unlawful Searches: Searches conducted without a warrant or probable cause.
  • Discrimination: Treating individuals unfairly based on race, gender, or other personal characteristics.

Your Rights Against Police Misconduct

In Fontana, you have rights designed to protect you from unlawful treatment. These include:

  • The right to remain silent during police encounters.
  • The right to refuse a search if there is no warrant.
  • The right to contact an attorney during questioning.

Steps to Take if You Face Police Misconduct

  • Document the Incident: Write down details immediately after the encounter.
  • File a Complaint: Report the misconduct to Fontana police department or a civilian oversight board.
  • Consult an Attorney: Reach out to Jerry L. Steering for guidance and legal representation.

If you experience police misconduct in Fontana, take action. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.

Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Los Angeles

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

If you’ve experienced police misconduct in Los Angeles, you’re not alone. Every year, countless individuals face unjust treatment at the hands of law enforcement. Understanding your rights and how to protect yourself is crucial in these situations.

What is Police Misconduct?

Police misconduct refers to any inappropriate behavior or illegal actions taken by police officers. This can range from excessive use of force to false arrest, racial profiling, or even intimidation.

Examples of Police Misconduct in Los Angeles

  • Excessive Force: Cases where officers use more force than necessary, leading to injury or harm.
  • False Arrest: Being arrested without legal justification or probable cause.
  • Racial Profiling: Targeting individuals based on race or ethnicity rather than behavior.
  • Retaliation: Taking action against individuals who assert their rights or file complaints.

Your Rights When Facing Police Misconduct

In Los Angeles, you have rights protected by law, including:

  • The right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself.
  • The right to refuse consent for a search if not presented with a warrant.
  • The right to legal representation during questioning or arrest.

What Can You Do if You’ve Experienced Police Misconduct?

  • Document Everything: Keep records of the incident, including dates, times, and officers involved.
  • File a Complaint: Report the incident to the relevant authorities, such as the LAPD’s Internal Affairs Division.
  • Seek Legal Counsel: Contact an experienced attorney like Jerry L. Steering, who specializes in police misconduct cases.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of police misconduct in Los Angeles, don’t hesitate to take action. Contact Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com for expert legal advice and representation.

Police Brutality and Your Rights in San Diego

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

San Diego residents expect their police force to maintain safety and integrity. Unfortunately, misconduct can occur. Knowing your rights is vital for protection.

Understanding Police Misconduct

Police misconduct covers a range of illegal activities or improper behavior by officers. This can violate civil rights and lead to serious consequences.

Examples of Police Misconduct in San Diego

  • Brutality: Use of excessive force in apprehending suspects.
  • False Imprisonment: Holding someone without legal justification.
  • Improper Conduct: Engaging in discriminatory practices during stops or arrests.

Your Rights in San Diego

You hold specific rights when dealing with police. These include:

  • The right to remain silent and not provide self-incriminating information.
  • The right to refuse searches without a warrant.
  • The right to legal representation if arrested.

Actions to Take if You Encounter Police Misconduct

  • Keep Records: Document all details about the incident.
  • Submit a Complaint: File your grievance with the San Diego Police Department.
  • Seek Legal Assistance: Contact Jerry L. Steering for experienced support.

If you face police misconduct in San Diego, act decisively. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.

Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Riverside

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Residents of Riverside deserve to feel secure in their interactions with law enforcement. Police misconduct can undermine that security. Awareness of your rights is essential.

Defining Police Misconduct

Police misconduct involves actions by law enforcement that infringe on personal rights. This can result in harm to individuals and communities.

Examples of Police Misconduct in Riverside

  • Use of Excessive Force: Unjustified physical force during arrests or detentions.
  • Illegal Searches: Conducting searches without proper warrants or probable cause.
  • Bias: Racial profiling or discrimination in enforcement actions.

Know Your Rights

In Riverside, you possess rights designed to safeguard you against misconduct, including:

  • The right to remain silent.
  • The right to refuse an unwarranted search.
  • The right to an attorney during questioning.

Steps to Take if Misconduct Occurs

  • Document Everything: Take notes about the incident while details are fresh.
  • File a Complaint: Report the misconduct to the Riverside Police Department or oversight agency.
  • Contact an Attorney: Get in touch with Jerry L. Steering for professional legal advice.

If you have faced police misconduct in Riverside, take steps to protect yourself. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.

Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Anaheim

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Anaheim residents deserve protection from police misconduct. Sadly, violations can happen. Knowing your rights helps you stand up against injustice.

Understanding Police Misconduct

Police misconduct occurs when law enforcement officials act outside the law. This can lead to serious violations of individual rights.

Examples of Police Misconduct in Anaheim

  • Excessive Force: Applying unnecessary force during arrests.
  • Illegal Detention: Holding individuals without legal cause.
  • Discriminatory Practices: Targeting individuals based on race or background.

Your Rights in Anaheim

You have rights that law enforcement must respect, including:

  • The right to remain silent.
  • The right to refuse a search without a warrant.
  • The right to speak with an attorney.

What to Do if You Experience Misconduct

  • Document the Incident: Take notes on what happened immediately.
  • File a Complaint: Report the incident to the Anaheim Police Department.
  • Consult a Lawyer: Reach out to Jerry L. Steering for legal assistance.

If you face police misconduct in Anaheim, take action. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.

Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Santa Ana

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Residents of Santa Ana expect fair treatment from law enforcement. Yet, instances of police misconduct can arise. Understanding your rights is crucial.

What Constitutes Police Misconduct?

Police misconduct covers various illegal actions taken by officers that violate personal rights. This can lead to community distrust and harm.

Examples of Police Misconduct in Santa Ana

  • Use of Excessive Force: When officers use more force than necessary.
  • False Arrests: Detaining individuals without just cause.
  • Racial Profiling: Discriminatory targeting based on personal characteristics.

Your Rights in Santa Ana

In Santa Ana, your rights include:

  • The right to remain silent.
  • The right to decline a search without consent or a warrant.
  • The right to legal counsel if questioned.

Steps to Take if You Encounter Police Misconduct

  • Document Everything: Keep detailed notes of the encounter.
  • File a Complaint: Report misconduct to the Santa Ana Police Department.
  • Seek Legal Help: Contact Jerry L. Steering for expert guidance.

If you experience police misconduct in Santa Ana, know your rights. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.

Police Brutality and Your Rights in Long Beach

Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on

Long Beach residents deserve law enforcement that upholds their rights. Unfortunately, police misconduct can occur. Understanding your rights is vital.

Understanding Police Misconduct

Police misconduct includes actions by officers that violate civil rights. These violations can damage community trust.

Examples of Police Misconduct in Long Beach

  • Excessive Force: Using more force than necessary in confrontations.
  • Unlawful Searches: Conducting searches without legal authority.
  • Improper Treatment: Engaging in discriminatory practices.

Know Your Rights

In Long Beach, you have rights that protect you, including:

  • The right to remain silent.
  • The right to refuse unwarranted searches.
  • The right to legal representation.

Actions to Take if You Face Misconduct

  • Document the Incident: Keep records of the event.
  • File a Complaint: Report the misconduct to the Long Beach Police Department.
  • Consult an Attorney: Reach out to Jerry L. Steering for legal assistance.

If you face police misconduct in Long Beach, act swiftly. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.