Police Misconduct Attorney in Eugene, OR

When power is abused, we hold it accountable. Fearless, compassionate legal care for victims of police violence across Eugene and the Willamette Valley.

Scenic Oregon coastal trail with ocean and forested cliffs

Police Misconduct Attorney in Eugene, OR

When power is abused, we hold it accountable. Fearless, compassionate legal care for victims of police violence across Eugene and the Willamette Valley.

Scenic Oregon coastal trail with ocean and forested cliffs
Police Misconduct

You Have Rights. Even When Those in Power Try to Ignore Them.

When law enforcement crosses the line, the damage goes far beyond the physical. The trauma, the fear, the isolation, and the feeling that no one will believe you all take a toll.

You should know this: you have rights, and they don't disappear because a badge was involved. If a police officer used excessive force, hurt you, or violated your constitutional rights, you may be able to hold them accountable.

At Larwick Injury Law, we take these cases seriously because we know the stakes are high. A police misconduct case isn't just about compensation. It's about truth, accountability, and change. These are hard cases, and they need a firm that's ready for the long fight. We're one of the few firms in Oregon with the focus and resolve to take them on. If you're looking for a “police misconduct attorney near me”, you're in the right place.

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Step by Step

What to Expect

Here’s what it looks like when our team stands between you and the system.

We Move Fast to Secure Critical Evidence

We gather bodycam footage, surveillance and cell phone video, and witness statements. These cases often hinge on what gets preserved in the first days, so speed matters.

We Build a Case That Can Stand Up to the System

We're ready to handle the tough parts, including qualified immunity defenses, complex appeals, and the pushback that comes with taking on a police department. We don't go in unprepared.

We Help You Reclaim Your Voice

You've been through something unjust. We bring the legal experience, the resolve, and the human care to make sure you're heard.

The Basics

Your Rights and Qualified Immunity, Explained

Yes, you can sue the police. Most of these cases are brought under a federal civil rights law called Section 1983. It lets you hold government officials accountable when they violate your constitutional rights, like your right to be free from excessive force or unlawful arrest.

But there's a hurdle you should know about: qualified immunity. This is a legal shield officers use to try to avoid responsibility. To get past it, we generally have to show that the officer violated a "clearly established" right that a reasonable officer would have known about. It's a tough standard, and it's exactly why these cases need a lawyer who knows how to fight it.

We'll be honest with you about your case, the challenges, and your options. No false promises. Just a clear-eyed plan.

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Damages

The Compensation and Accountability You Deserve

These cases are about more than money, but compensation matters, and it's part of holding wrongdoers accountable. Depending on your situation, you may be able to recover for:

Emotional distress and trauma

Loss of constitutional rights

Lost wages or future earning potential

Medical bills and therapy costs

Pain and suffering

Wrongful death or long-term disability

Every excessive force and police misconduct case is different. The best way to understand what your claim may be worth is to ask. We'll give you a straight, honest answer, free.

Why Larwick

Relentless Advocacy with Human-First Care

Police brutality and excessive force cases aren't easy. We don't pretend they are. But we know how to fight them, and we never back down.

At Larwick, we combine deep legal expertise and persistence with genuine human care. We're not just fighting for compensation. We're pushing back against a system that too often looks the other way. And we do it as members of this community, for our neighbors.

Proficiency
  • Deep understanding of civil rights law and constitutional claims
  • Long-term strategy across trial and appellate courts
  • Real recognition of how institutions resist accountability, and how to counter it
Support
  • Bilingual support available
  • Trauma-informed communication that meets you where you are
  • Full-firm dedication from your first call to the finish, from people who know our community
Derek and Keith sitting opposite each other discussing work at a small table in their office.

Please let me tell you about these guys. Derek, Keith, and their staff are kind, respectful, and show a heart for achieving the best outcome for their clients. I thought my case seemed like a long shot and it might be just too much to expect someone to do on contingency. Imagine my delight when they took it on and worked it with an amazing level of honesty and integrity, helping both me and the community in the end. I highly recommend that if you find yourself in need of injury lawyers, call the Larwick guys!

Tish B.

I highly recommend Larwick Law. They were incredibly responsive, professional, and helpful throughout the entire process. Any questions or concerns I had were addressed quickly, and I always felt informed and supported. Their team made a stressful situation much easier to navigate, and I truly appreciated their communication and attention to detail. Excellent service from start to finish!

Nina M.

I recently consulted with Derek regarding a personal injury matter, and I was genuinely impressed by the way he approached my situation. He took the time to listen, understand the details of my case, and explain my options without making me feel pressured to hire him. What stood out most was that he seemed genuinely concerned about my outcome, not just what he could earn from my case. After speaking with other attorneys who seemed more focused on their potential income, his honesty and client-first approach really stood out. I left the consultation feeling better informed and confident about my options. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney who genuinely listens and puts the client's interests first.

Rachel T.

Derek and his team are the best! Derek is very responsive, detail oriented, professional and extremely knowledgeable. He genuinely was concerned about me and family. I’m so thankful to have firm that truly cares about their clients. I was hit by a drunk driver while on the job and Derek was able to jump right in and take over and start working for me. This was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders in a time of need. I cant say enough good things about Derek and his firm. Thank you for all the hard work on my case and seeing it through to the end. I would highly recommend Derek.

Kristina S.

Larwick Injury Law is absolutely amazing! Everyone in the office has been so incredibly good to me and stood by my side every step of the way. A huge thank you and special shout-out to Derek Larwick and Keith Reed for going above and beyond to support me when I needed it most. I am beyond thankful for this team's kindness, dedication, and incredible care. I highly recommend them to anyone!

Salina H.

I have hired Derek Larwick twice now, and he and his staff consistently go above and beyond. Having worked with other personal injury attorneys in the area in the past, I can confidently say Derek is the only one I truly trust. Their personable approach and dedication exceeded my expectations at every turn. I highly recommend them!

Angela P.
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Causes

Common Types of Excessive Force and Police Misconduct

Understanding what happened to you is the first step toward accountability. We take on cases involving:

Excessive force during an arrest or detention

Unjustified shootings

Overuse of tasers or pepper spray

K9 attacks

Neglect or abuse in custody

False arrest or unlawful detention

Retaliation for filming, recording, or questioning authority

Wrongful death at the hands of law enforcement

Protect Your Claim

What to Do If Your Rights Were Violated by Police

Not sure what to do after a bad encounter with police? Here are the steps that matter most, from people who handle these cases:

  1. Get medical care right away. Your health comes first. It also creates a record of your injuries, with dates and details, that can matter later.
  2. Write down everything you remember. Officer names and badge numbers, the date, time, and place, what was said, and what happened. Do it while it's fresh.
  3. Save all evidence. Keep your torn or bloodied clothing. Take photos of every injury as it heals. Hold onto any paperwork you were given.
  4. Find video. Ask witnesses if they recorded it. Note any nearby cameras, like doorbells, businesses, or traffic cameras. This footage disappears fast.
  5. Get witness names and numbers. People who saw what happened can make a real difference.
  6. Be careful what you say and post. Don't discuss the case on social media. Anything you post can be used against you.
  7. Call a civil rights lawyer quickly. Key evidence, like bodycam and surveillance video, can be lost or overwritten in days. The sooner we start, the more we can protect.

There are strict deadlines for these claims, and some can be very short when a government agency is involved. Don't wait to ask. It's free to find out where you stand.

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Police Misconduct FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about police excessive force cases.

Can I bring a claim if my loved one was killed by police?

Yes. When police misconduct causes a death, close family members or the person's estate may be able to bring a wrongful death and civil rights claim. These cases seek accountability along with compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and the loss of your loved one. The deadlines are strict, and the cases are complex, so reach out as soon as you're able. We'll handle it with the care and respect your family deserves.

What if the police say I was resisting or that the force was justified?

That's one of the most common things officers claim, and it doesn't mean your case is over. What matters is whether the force was reasonable for the situation, not just what the report says. Police reports don't always match the video or the witnesses. We dig into bodycam footage, other recordings, and independent accounts to show what really happened.

How long do I have to file a police misconduct claim in Oregon?

Generally two years for a federal civil rights claim, but related claims against a city, county, or other public body can require formal notice in as little as 180 days. Because the deadlines are strict and easy to miss, call as soon as you can.

Do I need to file a complaint with the police department first?

No, you don't have to file an internal complaint before talking to a lawyer or bringing a civil rights claim. Some people file one, some don't. There are pros and cons either way, and what you say in that complaint can matter later. It's smart to talk to a lawyer first so you understand your options before you file anything.

What if the criminal charges against me are still pending?

You can still talk to us. In fact, you should. What happens in your criminal case can affect your civil rights claim, so it's smart to have a lawyer looking out for both. Everything you tell us stays confidential.

What is qualified immunity, and does it mean I can't win?

Qualified immunity is a shield officers use to try to avoid liability. It makes these cases harder, but not hopeless. Many victims recover compensation despite it. We know how to build a case designed to overcome it.

How much does a police misconduct lawyer cost?

Nothing up front. We work on a contingency fee, which means we only get paid if we win money for you. The first conversation is always free and confidential.

Can I really sue the police?

Yes. Federal civil rights law (Section 1983) lets you hold officers and agencies accountable when they violate your constitutional rights, including through excessive force or unlawful arrest. It's not easy, but it's very much possible with the right lawyer.

Think you might have a case?
It’s free to find out.

Your best case scenario.

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