Security Guard Issues, Lawsuits and Cases

Security guard related lawsuits arise from a variety of situations and circumstances. Our firm has handled multiple security guard related lawsuits and cases.

A common security guard lawsuit relates to use of force issues and these are in the news a lot with respect to law enforcement. Security guards have duties similar to law enforcement officers, to use only reasonable (and not disproportionate) force, and to try to “de-escalate” first, i.e., to avoid violence by way of seeking less physical methods of compliance.

Our firm began with extensive representation of security guards, security personnel, neighborhood ambassadors and venues such as night clubs and supermarkets. In stores, security guards can often incur liability for their employer or for the store that hires the security, often arising after a shoplifting event. During a pandemic, these events could even be triggered by enforcing mask rules. There are numerous ways security guard lawsuits arise. Most security guard cases require the use of security experts, many of which specialize in use of force. Where the use of force is excessive to the need for force, or where force is used without its being necessary, a patron could sue the business owner or security company for assault, battery or false imprisonment (detention lacking probable cause). Other security guard cases involve citizens arrests.

Our firm has represented plaintiffs for decades in use of force security cases. After gaining invaluable knowledge and experience defending security companies and venues, our firm is best suited to pursue cases for clients who have been assaulted by security guards or injured when use of force was excessive.

Companies must carry out background checks before hiring security guards, to insure that they do not have propensities to violence. They must also insure proper training has been completed by the security guards, many of the most competent of which will have obtained a “guard card” from the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). In order to get a security guard license (guard card), a guard must complete a pre-licensing course, composed of two sections: Powers to Arrest and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). Other elements may include first aid training, De-Escalation Techniques, Probable Cause and similar training.

Companies must also adequately investigate uses of force to determine if the use of force was reasonable under the circumstances; and the business should take action, such as termination, as to security guards or companies which did not adhere to use of force or arrest/detention standards. Our firm has represented multiple clients against security companies and security guards, and venues such as nightclubs, markets, restaurants, bars and private events.

If you have a case and possible lawsuit similar to these, contact Ken Ralidis at 213.251.5480 today to see how he can help you get the compensation you deserve. We have often obtained results for our clients that are 10-25 times what the initial offer was. Don’t just settle for any attorney that may not have the experience, or a big law firm that doesn’t have the time or resources for a case like yours. Reach out to Ken Ralidis for his experience and the personal attention he offers. We can help you win your case!