In some circumstances you may be able to sue the Police for damages.
It can be useful to find support to help you before, during and after this process. We encourage you to find support that is right for you.
For example, you can make a complaint about the Police for:
You can make a complaint to the Police, or to the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA). If you make your complaint to the Police, the Police must tell the IPCA about it.
If you have a Lawyer for Child or a Youth Advocate, they can help you make a complaint or make a complaint on your behalf. If you are a child, your guardian or caregiver can also make a complaint on your behalf.
You can make a complaint to the Police:
The Independent Police Conduct Authorityopen_in_new (IPCA) is an independent body that looks into formal complaints about the Police and tries to resolve them.
Make your complaint within 12 months of the incident you are making a complaint about.'
Make your complain in the way that you prefer
Make a complaint to the IPCA by:
Independent Police Conduct Authority PO Box 25221 Wellington 6146
Include these details in your complaint to the IPCA
If you complain to the IPCA by writing to them, include:
If a Police officer injured you, see a doctor and have photos taken of your injuries, and include these with your complaint.
The IPCA should write to you within seven days of receiving your complaint to confirm they received it.
You can get help with making a complaint
If you need help with making your complaint, you can:
It may be possible to sue (take legal action against) the Police for damages (money). For example, you may be able to sue them for wrongful arrest, wrongful imprisonment or assault.
But this can be expensive and take a long time – and you may not get very much money if you win, or any money.
If you are thinking of suing the Police, find legal advice and talk to a lawyer, your Lawyer for Child or Youth Advocate. You may be eligible for legal aid. Find our information about getting legal support or advice.
Learn more about going to court to sue for damages.
You have reached the maximum character limit.
You must enable JavaScript to submit this form