In the Wake of Two Recent Rulings, Attorneys Offer Advice to Law Enforcement on Avoiding Liability

Jim Acho, Doug Curlew and Jennifer Richards, all attorneys in our Livonia office, co-wrote an article highlighting two recent cases that impact law enforcement agencies. The article was published in the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police’s publication Michigan Police Chiefs.

The article, “Unfavorable Outcome Affects Law Enforcement” summarizes two recent cases from the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit that resulted in rulings against law enforcement agencies. The first case deals with whether officers were justified in failing to obtain a warrant and whether the use of tear gas was excessive force during an all-night standoff. The second case deals with whether tight handcuffs constituted excessive force. The article includes advice on what law enforcement should do to avoid liability in similar situations.

Jim Acho focuses his practice on sports and entertainment law, labor and employment law, law enforcement defense and plaintiff’s personal injury. He may be reached at (734) 261-2400 or jacho@cmda-law.com. Doug Curlew focuses his practice on law enforcement defense, litigation and appeals and insurance defense. He may be reached at (734) 261-2400 or dcurlew@cmda-law.com. Jennifer Richards focuses her practice on appeals, law enforcement defense, municipal law and insurance defense. She may be reached at (734) 261-2400 or jrichards@cmda-law.com.