Civil Rights 101: Karen Read Sues the Police artwork
Layman's Law School

Civil Rights 101: Karen Read Sues the Police

  • S5E16
  • 43:09
  • July 22nd 2026

In this podcast episode of Layman's Law School, attorneys Chace, Reid, and Shawn with "laywoman" host Lindsey break down Karen Read's civil lawsuit, explain what malicious prosecution actually means, discuss qualified immunity, and answer one of the biggest legal questions viewers ask:


Can you actually sue the police?


NOTE: this episode was recorded on 6/12/26 so there may be case updates we were not aware of. Feel free to add any updates relevant to this discussion in the comments!


You'll learn:


✅ Why Karen Read filed a civil lawsuit after her criminal acquittal

✅ The difference between criminal and civil court

✅ What Section 1983 lawsuits are

✅ How qualified immunity works

✅ Why probable cause may be the biggest obstacle

✅ Whether Karen Read is likely to settle or go to trial


Whether you follow the Karen Read case closely or just want to understand how these laws affect everyday people, this episode breaks it down in plain English.


👕 Support the Channel


Love the show?


Check out the official Layman's Law School merch, including our new shirts, hats, and fan favorites worn in this episode!

Layman's Law School

Ever found yourself in a situation where you think you need a lawyer but aren’t sure? Slipped, tripped, or spilled your soup at a local store and wondered if you have a case? Or maybe you just want to make sense of all the complicated legal jargon that seems designed to confuse you?

Join Chace Hawk, Reid Sanders, and Shawn Merzlak of Hawk Law Group as they break down your legal questions in plain, straightforward language—with a dash of humor to keep things interesting. From demystifying legal terms to weighing in on trending legal news and high-profile cases, we tackle it all in a way that’s easy to understand.

Whether you’re here for practical advice or just curious about how the law works in everyday life, you’re in the right place. Presented by Hawk Law Group.