Sarah Schielke’s journey to becoming a prominent civil rights attorney in Colorado is a testament to determination, unconventional thinking, and a passion for justice. After graduating from Boston University School of Law in 2008, Schielke found herself in Colorado seeking a fresh start. With no professional connections, she took an unusual approach to launching her legal career: posting an ad on Craigslist offering discount legal services.
This bold move paid off, providing Schielke with valuable experience and laying the foundation for her future success. In 2012, she established the Life and Liberty Law Office, specializing in criminal defense and civil rights litigation. Schielke’s approach to law has been characterized by a steep learning curve and a willingness to forge her path.
One of Schielke’s most notable strategies has been using body camera footage to bring attention to civil rights cases. This approach has proven highly effective, resulting in settlements exceeding typical amounts for similar cases. A prime example is the Karen Garner case, where Schielke’s release of body camera footage in April 2021 brought national attention to the arrest of a woman with dementia by Loveland police officers. The case resulted in a $3 million settlement and criminal charges against two officers.
Schielke’s success continued in 2022 with a record-breaking $7 million settlement in a case against the Idaho Springs Police Department. Her innovative tactics and dedication to her clients have earned her recognition, including being named one of USA TODAY’s Women of the Year for Colorado.
Throughout her career, Schielke has demonstrated courage in the face of adversity. She recounts a particularly proud moment when she released body camera footage in a Clear Creek County case despite the risk of being held in contempt of court. This action ultimately led to a $7 million settlement for her client.
Schielke’s approach to law is deeply influenced by personal experiences, including losing her father early in her career. This tragedy shaped her perspective, instilling a sense of gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness that informs her work and interactions with others.
Her guiding principle is the belief that there are two types of people: good people and good people in pain. This compassionate outlook allows her to approach challenging situations with empathy and understanding.
Schielke’s impact extends beyond individual cases. She has filed multiple lawsuits against the Fort Collins Police Services for alleged wrongful DUI arrests by a former officer. These cases highlight systemic issues within law enforcement and demonstrate Schielke’s commitment to holding institutions accountable.
Her work has been subject to controversy. Schielke has called for the resignation of Fort Collins Police Chief Jeff Swoboda, accusing him of misleading the public and failing to supervise officers properly. This bold stance underscores her dedication to transparency and justice in law enforcement.
Throughout her career, Schielke has received numerous accolades, including being named a Rising Stars SuperLawyer for DUI Defense and the DUIDLA’s “Badass Award” for her work on United States Supreme Court case amicus briefs.
Sarah Schielke’s story is about resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to civil rights. From her unconventional start on Craigslist to her groundbreaking legal strategies, she has consistently challenged the status quo and fought for justice. As she continues to take on high-profile cases and push for accountability in law enforcement, Schielke remains a formidable force in the legal world, paving the way for a more just and equitable system.