Sarah Schielke, a Colorado-based attorney, has been making waves in the legal community with her tireless pursuit of justice for victims of civil rights violations. Through her work at the Life and Liberty Law Office, Schielke has taken on high-profile cases against police departments, securing record-breaking settlements for her clients and holding law enforcement accountable for their actions.
One of Schielke’s most notable cases involved Karen Garner, a woman with dementia who was violently arrested by Loveland police officers in 2020. Schielke’s release of the body camera footage brought national attention to the case, prompting internal and external reviews of the incident and the department. The case ultimately led to criminal charges against the officers involved and a $3 million settlement for the Garner family.
Schielke’s success continued with the case of Harris Elias, who was wrongfully arrested for DUI by the Loveland Police Department despite breathalyzer and blood tests coming back negative for alcohol and drugs. The city settled with Elias for $400,000, significantly higher than the typical settlement for similar cases.
In another groundbreaking case, Schielke secured a $7 million settlement for her client, Michael Clark, who Idaho Springs police officers brutally tased in his own home. This settlement set a new record for civil rights cases in Colorado.
Schielke’s unique approach to civil rights litigation involves sharing body camera footage from her client’s cases with the public, drawing attention to the injustices they have faced. This strategy has proven effective in securing substantial settlements and holding law enforcement agencies accountable for their actions.
Throughout her career, Schielke has demonstrated courage and determination in fighting for her clients’ rights, even in the face of powerful opposition. Her dedication to learning, adaptability, and the support of her husband, a stay-at-home dad, have been instrumental in her success.
As a testament to her impact, Schielke was named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year in 2023, recognizing her as a champion of change in the civil rights field. Her work has secured justice for her clients and sparked conversations about the need for greater accountability and reform within law enforcement.
With her new office building, funded by the settlements she has won against the Loveland Police Department, Schielke continues to fight for those whose rights have been violated. Her plaque, thanking the department for its “incompetence,” serves as a reminder of her clients’ sorrows and the joy she finds in participating in their fight for justice.
As Schielke continues to take on challenging cases and push for change, her impact on the civil rights landscape in Colorado and beyond is undeniable. Her unwavering commitment to her clients and willingness to challenge powerful institutions inspire aspiring lawyers and advocates for justice everywhere.