Law FirmPitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers, PC
117 W. Fourth Street, Suite 200, Royal Oak, Michigan, 48067
Michigan's Civil Rights Champions
Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers, PC is a prominent civil rights and employment law firm based in Royal Oak, Michigan, with a decades-long history of holding government entities and law enforcement accountable for constitutional violations. The firm has built a formidable reputation as one of Michigan's foremost advocates for individuals whose rights have been violated by police misconduct, excessive force, false arrest, and other abuses of governmental authority. Its attorneys bring a combined wealth of experience in litigating complex civil rights matters in both state and federal courts.
The firm has represented numerous clients in high-profile cases involving police brutality, unlawful detention, wrongful death at the hands of law enforcement, and systemic civil rights violations. Their attorneys are well-versed in claims brought under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 and have successfully pursued cases against municipal police departments, county sheriffs, and other governmental actors throughout Michigan. The firm's commitment to civil rights extends beyond individual cases, as they have been involved in litigation that has prompted broader reforms in law enforcement practices.
Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers, PC is known for its trial-ready approach and willingness to take on powerful governmental defendants that other firms might avoid. The attorneys at the firm have secured substantial settlements and verdicts on behalf of clients who have suffered serious injuries, loss of liberty, or the death of loved ones due to police misconduct. Their track record reflects a deep institutional commitment to justice and the constitutional rights of all individuals.
In addition to police misconduct and civil rights litigation, the firm handles employment discrimination and labor law matters, giving their civil rights practice a broad foundation in constitutional and statutory protections. The firm's attorneys are recognized by their peers and clients alike for their zealous advocacy, legal acumen, and dedication to advancing civil rights in Michigan and beyond.
Notable Results
- $100 million settlement for female inmates abused in Michigan prisons
- $7.5 million settlement against Michigan State Police for fatal high-speed pursuits
- Co-lead counsel in historic Flint water supply litigation
Key Characteristics
- Has litigated numerous Section 1983 civil rights cases against Michigan law enforcement agencies and municipal police departments in federal and state courts.
- Represents clients who have suffered serious injuries or death as a result of excessive force, unlawful detention, and other police misconduct.
- Has pursued systemic civil rights litigation that has contributed to reforms in law enforcement policies and practices throughout Michigan.
- The firm combines deep expertise in civil rights law with employment and labor law, providing comprehensive constitutional advocacy for clients.
- Known for a trial-ready litigation strategy that holds powerful governmental defendants accountable through aggressive and thorough legal representation.