When a federal law enforcement officer crosses the line — using excessive force, detaining you without cause, or violating your rights — it’s more than misconduct. It’s a betrayal of public trust.

For most people, the idea of suing the U.S. Government feels impossible. But under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), you can hold federal officers and agencies accountable for assault, battery, false arrest, and other wrongful acts.

At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), our attorneys know this system from the inside. We’re former federal prosecutors, JAG officers, and agency counsel who’ve seen how these cases are defended — and we know how to beat those defenses. Our mission in every case is simple: to maximize your settlement or judgment and restore your power when the government abuses its own.

When Law Enforcement Goes Too Far

Federal law enforcement officers have significant authority — but that power has limits. When they cross those limits, the FTCA opens a path to accountability.

Common Examples of FTCA Claims Against Federal Officers

  • Assault or battery during an arrest or detention

    • Example: A Border Patrol agent uses unnecessary physical force during a traffic stop.

  • False arrest or false imprisonment

    • Example: An FBI or DEA agent detains you without probable cause or keeps you in custody after charges are dropped.

  • Abuse of process or malicious prosecution

    • Example: A federal agent fabricates evidence or initiates charges knowing they’re baseless.

  • Wrongful shootings or excessive force by security officers or marshals

  • Illegal searches, seizures, or destruction of property

The FTCA recognizes a narrow but vital exception — known as the law enforcement proviso — which specifically allows lawsuits against the United States for intentional torts committed by federal law enforcement officers.

That means that even though most intentional misconduct by government employees is immune from suit, law enforcement officers are the exception.

Understanding the Law Enforcement Exception

Under 28 U.S.C. § 2680(h), the federal government can be held liable for certain intentional torts committed by officers who have the authority to make arrests or execute searches, including:

  • Assault

  • Battery

  • False imprisonment

  • False arrest

  • Malicious prosecution

  • Abuse of process

This exception covers federal agencies such as:

  • FBI

  • DEA

  • ATF

  • U.S. Marshals Service

  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

  • U.S. Secret Service

  • Border Patrol and ICE

  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

In other words, if you were physically harmed, wrongfully detained, or maliciously prosecuted by a federal officer, you have the right to seek compensation from the U.S. Government itself — not just the individual agent.

What You Can Recover Under the FTCA

When you file an FTCA claim for law enforcement misconduct, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses and physical injuries

  • Lost wages or loss of employment

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress and psychological trauma

  • Property damage or destruction

  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Each case is unique — and the government will do everything it can to minimize your recovery. That’s why accurate valuation and evidence presentation are critical.

At NSLF, we work with forensic, medical, and psychological experts to document the full scope of harm and ensure every dollar you deserve is claimed.

How the Government Defends These Cases

When you file an FTCA claim against law enforcement, the government often responds with familiar defenses:

  • Qualified immunity arguments (even though immunity doesn’t protect the government under the FTCA itself)

  • Discretionary function claims, arguing the officer’s actions were within their judgment or policy

  • Scope of employment disputes — claiming the officer was acting outside their official duties

  • Causation and credibility attacks, suggesting you caused the incident or are exaggerating injuries

We know every one of these tactics — because we’ve sat in those government meetings, drafted those defenses, and now dismantle them from the other side.

To learn more about how the U.S. defends FTCA cases (and how we counter those defenses), visit our FTCA Resource Center.

How NSLF Holds Federal Officers Accountable

Our firm brings an insider’s edge to every FTCA case. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. We Understand the System

Our attorneys have served as federal prosecutors, JAG officers, and agency counsel. We’ve defended government employees before — and now we use that knowledge to win for our clients.

2. We Move Fast

FTCA claims are time-sensitive. You must file your SF-95 administrative claim within two years of the incident. We handle every stage — from filing to negotiation to litigation — ensuring the government can’t escape on a technicality.

3. We Build Ironclad Evidence

Law enforcement agencies rarely hand over evidence voluntarily. We use Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, subpoenas, and independent investigations to uncover the truth — from use-of-force reports to bodycam footage and internal communications.

4. We Humanize Every Case

Judges respond to clear evidence and compelling stories. We document not just what happened, but how it changed your life. Whether it’s lost employment, trauma, or reputational harm, we make sure your pain is fully seen and valued.

5. We Maximize Every Recovery

The government will always offer the lowest possible number first. Our attorneys know how to calculate long-term costs and emotional damages, and we fight until you receive the highest settlement or judgment the law allows.

Choosing the Right FTCA Lawyer

Holding the federal government accountable isn’t like suing a private person or company. It’s a battle of procedure, precision, and endurance.

Most personal injury lawyers — even good ones — don’t have the experience or security clearance to handle federal litigation effectively. The wrong lawyer can cost you everything.

That’s why it’s essential to read our detailed guide before hiring anyone:
👉 How to Choose the Right FTCA Lawyer (and Red Flags to Avoid)

It explains what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to avoid costly mistakes when selecting representation.

Why Choose National Security Law Firm

Clients across the country choose NSLF for one reason: results.

  • ⭐ 4.9-star Google reviews from clients nationwide (read them here)

  • 🪖 Former federal and military attorneys who know how agencies operate — and how to beat them

  • ⚖️ Nationwide representation from Washington, D.C. — the center of federal law

  • 💸 Transparent pricing and legal financing through Affirm

  • 💬 Free, no-pressure consultations

  • 💥 A mission-driven approach to maximize every client’s recovery

If a federal officer violated your rights, you deserve justice — and a law firm that has the skill, discipline, and experience to take on the most powerful defendant in the country: the United States Government.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’ve been assaulted, falsely arrested, or mistreated by a federal law enforcement officer, don’t wait. FTCA deadlines are strict, and evidence fades fast.

📞 Call 202-600-4996 or book your free consultation online.
We’ll evaluate your claim, identify the agency responsible, and build a strategic plan to hold the government accountable.

Learn More About FTCA Claims

Visit our FTCA Resource Center for detailed guides on:

  • Filing your SF-95 claim

  • Proving government negligence

  • Overcoming common FTCA defenses

  • Maximizing your settlement or judgment

Whether your claim involves the FBI, DEA, Border Patrol, or TSA, our Resource Center will help you understand your rights and what to expect every step of the way.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.