Sarah Schielke, a prominent civil rights attorney and founder of the Life and Liberty Law Office in Colorado, has significantly impacted the legal landscape through her unwavering dedication to fighting police misconduct and wrongful arrests. Her unique approach to civil rights litigation and commitment to her clients has led to record-breaking settlements and policy changes within law enforcement agencies across the state.
Schielke’s journey to becoming a renowned civil rights attorney began with her education at Middlebury College, where she earned a B.A. in Psychology, graduating magna cum laude. She then pursued her law degree at Boston University School of Law on a full academic merit scholarship, where she also served as the Managing Editor of the Boston University Law Review.
Upon moving to Colorado, Schielke faced challenges in establishing her legal career. Undeterred, she took an unconventional approach by posting an ad on Craigslist offering discount legal services to gain experience. This bold move laid the foundation for her future success as a civil rights attorney.
One of Schielke’s most high-profile cases involved the wrongful arrest of Harris Elias for DUI by the Fort Collins Police Department. Despite negative breathalyzer and blood tests, Elias was arrested based on an officer’s suspicion after less than 60 seconds of interaction. This case marked the second time Elias had been wrongfully arrested for DUI, highlighting the systemic issues within law enforcement that Schielke tirelessly works to address.
Schielke’s tenacity and commitment to justice were further exemplified in the case of Karen Garner, a woman with dementia who Loveland police officers violently arrested. Schielke’s strategic release of the body camera footage brought national attention to the case, leading to criminal charges against the officers involved and a $3 million settlement for the Garner family.
In another groundbreaking case, Schielke secured a $7 million settlement for Michael Clark, who Idaho Springs police officers brutally tased in his own home. This record-breaking settlement provided justice for her client and sent a powerful message about the consequences of police misconduct.
Schielke’s impact on Colorado’s civil rights landscape has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year, recognizing her tireless efforts to champion change in her field. Her new office building, funded by the settlements she has won against police departments, is a testament to her success and dedication to her clients.
As Schielke continues to take on challenging cases and expose injustice within law enforcement, her influence on Colorado’s legal system grows. Her background in psychology, passion for learning, and unwavering commitment to justice have made her a formidable force in the fight for civil rights.
For the countless individuals whose lives have been impacted by police misconduct, Sarah Schielke represents a beacon of hope. Her relentless crusade against injustice and dedication to securing justice for her clients have made an indelible mark on the civil rights landscape in Colorado and beyond. As she continues to fight for what is right, Schielke’s impact will undoubtedly be felt for generations.
