Sarah Schielke’s journey in the legal world is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her story begins not in the hallowed halls of established law firms but on the digital pages of Craigslist in 2010. Fresh out of Boston University School of Law and seeking a fresh start in Colorado, Schielke took an unconventional approach to launching her career: posting an ad offering discount legal services.
This bold move paid off, providing Schielke with invaluable experience and laying the foundation for her future success. In 2012, she established the Life and Liberty Law Office, focusing on criminal defense and civil rights litigation – areas she had been passionate about since law school. Schielke embraced the steep learning curve, never having worked under another attorney, which allowed her to forge her unique legal path.
What sets Schielke apart is her innovative approach to civil rights cases. She developed a strategy of sharing body camera footage from her client’s cases with the public, a tactic that has proven remarkably effective. This approach brings national media attention to her cases and often results in substantially larger settlements for her clients than similar cases.
One of Schielke’s most notable cases involved Karen Garner, a woman with dementia who was injured during an arrest by Loveland police in June 2020. Schielke’s release of the body camera footage in April 2021 brought the case to light, sparking national outrage and prompting internal and external reviews of the incident and the department. The investigations led to criminal charges against two officers, with one sentenced to five years in prison and the other to 45 days in jail, followed by probation. The case ultimately settled for $3 million, far exceeding the usual settlement amount for similar cases.
In 2022, Schielke secured another significant victory with a record-breaking $7 million settlement against the Idaho Springs Police Department for a brutal tasing incident involving one of her clients in his own home. These successes underscore the effectiveness of Schielke’s innovative approach to civil rights litigation.
Schielke’s impact extends beyond individual cases. Her work has contributed to broader systemic changes, prompting investigations into police conduct and leading to criminal charges against officers involved in misconduct. Her willingness to challenge powerful institutions and her innovative use of technology to bring cases to public attention have set new standards in the field of civil rights law.
Despite adversity, including attempts to hold her in contempt for releasing body camera footage, Schielke remains committed to her principles. She views these challenges as opportunities to stand up for what’s right, even in the face of powerful opposition. Her definition of courage involves the determination to address wrongs and improve situations, especially when faced with resistance from those in positions of authority.
Schielke’s personal experiences have profoundly shaped her approach to law and life. The loss of her father early in her career led her to reframe her perspective, embracing gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness. This transformative experience has influenced her interactions with clients and her approach to challenging cases.
Her guiding principle is the belief that there are two types of people: good people and good people in pain. This perspective informs her approach to her legal practice and personal life, allowing her to approach even the most complex cases with empathy and understanding.
Recognized for her groundbreaking work, Schielke was named one of USA TODAY’s Women of the Year, an honor that acknowledges her significant impact on civil rights law. Her success serves as an inspiration to aspiring lawyers and demonstrates the power of unconventional thinking in effecting change within the legal system.
Schielke has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to learning and growth throughout her career. She approaches each case as an opportunity to expand her knowledge, reaching out to more experienced colleagues and constantly educating herself on relevant issues.
As she continues to fight for justice, Sarah Schielke is a beacon of hope for those seeking justice in a complex legal system. Her story is not just about personal success but about redefining what it means to be an advocate for justice in the modern legal landscape. Through her innovative strategies, unwavering determination, and commitment to her clients, Schielke is paving the way for a new era of civil rights litigation in America.