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When evaluating an excessive force claim under the Fourth Amendment, should courts focus only on the split second when force was used, or the entire encounter?

In 𝘉𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘷. 𝘍𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘹, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously reaffirmed that courts must consider the totality of the circumstances, rejecting the narrower "moment of threat" approach previously applied by some courts. The decision reinforces that events leading up to an officer's use of force may be critical to determining whether that force was objectively reasonable.

Samantha Owens examines the Court's decision and what it means for law enforcement agencies, municipalities, and litigants moving forward.

Supreme Court Reaffirms Totality-of-the-Circumstances Analysis in Fourth Amendment Excessive Force Cases - Cranfill Sumner LLP For more information about Supreme Court Reaffirms Totality-of-the-Circumstances Analysis in Fourth Amendment Excessive Force Cases , click here or visit our site to learn more!

Happy 250th Birthday, America! We’re proud to celebrate this historic milestone and the anniversary of our nation's founding.

In honor of July 4th, all Cranfill Sumner LLP offices will be closed on July 3, 2026.

Dominic Totman is featured in the latest edition of Attorney At Law Magazine. The article highlights his approach to transactional law, his role as a strategic advisor to businesses, and his experience handling complex multi-disciplinary transactions across various industries.

Dominic Totman Featured in Attorney at Law Magazine - Cranfill Sumner LLP For more information about Dominic Totman Featured in Attorney at Law Magazine, click here or visit our site to learn more!