In cases against government employees, there are strict filing requirements.  You must file a claim within a short amount of time.  Even if you file a claim on time, you must still file a lawsuit on time, too.  Failure to timely file a claim and also to timely file a lawsuit means you may not be able to recover monetary damages. The filing deadlines can vary depending upon the state you live in, the responsible government entity, and whether you are in federal or state court.  Only a lawyer experienced in police brutality cases can properly advise you and protect your rights before they might be lost due to delay.