Mastering Police Liability and Damages in Death Cases under § 1983

Your next police liability case under § 1983 may be a fatality or involve a catastrophic injury. Are you ready for the challenge? Maximizing your recovery for the plaintiff? Or damage control and avoiding a blow-up verdict for the defense? This program will take you through what you need to know, from case selection for the plaintiff; investigation and representation for the defense; discovery for both sides; the three experts you will need; the defense motion for summary judgment; negotiation and settlement; evidentiary issues for trial; jury selection, instructions, and the verdict form; trial and post-trial motions and fees.

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze the key factors influencing case selection for plaintiffs and the strategic considerations in investigating and representing the defense
2. Examine the procedural stages of litigation, including pleadings, discovery in high-exposure cases, and dispositive motions such as motions to dismiss and summary judgment
3. Evaluate the role of expert witnesses, including liability and damages experts and the medical examiner, in shaping case outcomes
4. Develop effective trial strategies by understanding evidentiary issues, jury selection, closing arguments, and the use of special verdict forms
5. Assess post-trial procedures, including Rule 50 and 59 motions, remittitur, and the determination of attorney's fees