Police Misconduct Lawyer in Metairie, LA
Fighting for Justice When Law Enforcement Crosses the Line
If you've been mistreated by police, you don't have to stay silent. We help victims pursue justice & accountability.
Police officers have a duty to protect and serve - not to harass, assault, or falsely imprison the people they're sworn to defend. Unfortunately, when that power is abused, the harm can be physical, emotional, and lasting. If you or a loved one were hurt, wrongly arrested, or mistreated by police, you may have a civil rights claim.

At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we represent individuals in Metairie, New Orleans, and across Southeast Louisiana who have experienced abuse at the hands of law enforcement. These cases are never easy - but we know how to take on powerful institutions and hold them accountable. You deserve to be heard, and we're here to help you take the next step forward.
Practice Areas
Wrongful Arrest
A wrongful arrest can turn your life upside down - from lost jobs to damaged reputations. We help clients challenge false charges and seek compensation when their rights are violated without cause.
Excessive Force
If an officer used violence that was unreasonable or unnecessary, you may be entitled to damages. We handle cases involving beatings, tasers, chokeholds, and other use-of-force injuries.
What Makes Us Different
We Stand Up to Power
It takes real courage to go up against law enforcement. We'll support you at every stage and work to make your voice heard.
We Know the System & How to Challenge It
Our team understands the local courts, the police procedures, and the civil rights laws that protect you.
FAQs: Police Misconduct in Louisiana
What counts as police brutality?
Any use of force beyond what's necessary - including beatings, improper restraints, or verbal threats - may be considered police brutality.
Can I sue the police?
Yes. You can bring a civil rights lawsuit under federal and Louisiana law, but these cases must be filed properly and on time.
What if I was charged with a crime during the incident?
You may still have a valid civil claim, especially if the charges were dropped or you were acquitted. We'll evaluate all the facts.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Civil rights cases often have a one-year deadline in Louisiana. It's critical to act quickly and preserve your rights.
Will my case go to trial?
Some settle, some go to court. We'll prepare every case as if it will be tried - and we'll never push you to settle for less than you deserve.
Talk to a Metairie Civil Rights Lawyer Today
If you've been mistreated by police, we're here to help. With years of experience and a client-centered approach, we offer strong legal support and honest advice to help you move forward.
Our practice areas.
We approach every legal matter with a broad perspective and a sharp focus, integrating insights across our practice areas to deliver unparalleled results for our clients.
"Stephen is an asset to our company. He skillfully reviews and negotiates multimillion-dollar contracts, he artfully drafts subcontracts and leases, and he has successfully represented us in court and before municipal boards. He is an accomplished lawyer that is always there when we need him. He is our confidant and friend."
Furino & Sons Inc. (Brothers Four)
"It is truly our pleasure to recommend Stephen to any individual or corporation looking for highly skilled legal counsel. He has represented us on a variety of corporate legal matters and he is a master with both contract and lease negotiations, always offering exceptional strategic advice. More recently, he represented us in front of the Township Planning Board and helped us achieve our desired results when it seemed impossible. We highly endorse Stephen both personally and professionally."
HEC Holding Co., LLC
"Stephen has successfully represented our company’s interests in several matters involving intricate fact patterns and novel legal theories. In one, a particularly aggressive plaintiff was convinced by Stephen to voluntarily dismiss a lawsuit in which it sought significant monetary damages. These favorable outcomes have resulted from Stephen’s thorough and careful review of all facts and circumstances and his dedication to the best interests of his client. In every matter in which we have retained Stephen he has sought to obtain the best possible result in the shortest possible time. We recommend Stephen without reservation."
RPM Development Group
What sets your approach apart?
Our attorneys combine academic rigor, industry leadership, and a deep understanding of complex legal landscapes to deliver strategies uniquely tailored to each client.
How do you handle intricate legal challenges?
We thrive on complexity, leveraging decades of experience to uncover solutions others might miss. Every case is approached with precision, diligence, and creativity.
What kind of communication can clients expect?
We prioritize direct and consistent communication, offering clear updates and actionable insights throughout the legal process, so you remain confident and informed.
How do you approach long-term legal partnerships?
We build enduring relationships by aligning with our clients’ long-term objectives, acting as trusted advisors who guide and support through every phase of their ventures.
What can I expect during my consultation?
Your initial consultation will involve an in-depth discussion of your goals and challenges, allowing our attorneys to outline tailored strategies and next steps. See below for a typical process cadence.