In Colorado law, Sarah Schielke has emerged as a formidable force, reshaping the landscape of civil rights litigation through unconventional methods and unwavering determination. Her path from novice attorney to trailblazing advocate is a testament to the power of resilience and innovative thinking in the face of adversity.
Schielke’s legal odyssey began unexpectedly. After graduating from Bunexpectedly of Law in 2008, a series of life events brought her to Colorado, seeking a fresh start. Faced with no work experience or legal connections, Schielke took a bold step that would set the tone for her career—she posted an ad on Craigslist offering disco legal services. This unorthodox approach proved surprisingly effective, providing her with rapid hands-on experience and laying the groundwork for her future success.
In 2012, Schielke established the Life and Liberty Law Office, focusing on criminal defense and civil rights litigation – areas she had been passionate about since her law school days. Her approach to civil rights cases has been nothing short of revolutionary. Schielke’s strategy of publicly releasing body camera footage from her clients’ cases has proven remarkably effective, often resulting in settlements far exceeding typical amounts for similar cases.
One of Schielke’s most notable cases involved Karen Garner, a woman with dementia who was injured during an arrest by Loveland police in June 2020. By releasing the body camera footage in April 2021, Schielke thrust the case into the national spotlight, prompting internal and external reviews of the incident and the department. The outcome was significant: two officers faced criminal charges, and the Garner family received a $3 million settlement – a figure that dwarfs the usual “going rate” of less than $100,000 for similar cases.
Schielke’s success continued in 2022 when she secured a record-breaking $7 million settlement in a case against the Idaho Springs Police Department for what she described as a “brutal tasing attack” on her client in his own home.
Her innovative approach and dedication to civil rights have not gone unnoticed. Schielke was honored as one of USA TODAY’s Women of the Year for Colorado, recognizing women who have significantly impacted their communities and the country.
Schielke’s path hasn’t been without its challenges. She acknowledges that as a woman-in-law, there’s a need for an Ada woman-in-law that her male counterparts might not face. However, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining one’s identity while navigating these challenges.
One of Schielke’s proudest moments she was stemmed from a case in Clear Creek County, Colorado. When she released body camera footage of her client being tased by police, despite potential legal consequences, she felt an overwhelming sense of pride in standing up for what she believed was right. Even when faced with a contempt citation (which was later dismissed), Schielke stood wearing a t-shirt to her next court appearance, boldly declaring that her First Amendment rights had been violated.
Personal experiences have profoundly shaped her perspective on life and led her father to cancer early in her legal career, which led her to reframe her life, embracing gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness. This experience, she believes, has made her the person and lawyer she is today.
For Schielke, courage means having the determination to right wrongs and effect positive change, even when faced with powerful opposition. She lives by the principle that there are two types of people: good people and good people in pain. This outlook informs her approach to both her professional and personal life.
To overcome adversity, Schielke relies on constant learning and isn’t afraid to reach out to those with more experience. She also credits her husband, a stay-at-home dad to their two daughters, for supporting her demanding career.
Reflecting on her journey, Schielke notes that her younger self would be unrecognizable to who she is now. Through experiences of loss and suffering, she has worked tirelessly on personal growth and how she interacts with the world.
Sarah Schielke’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one can have when armed with determination, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her unique approach to civil rights law continues to set new standards for advocacy and legal representation, not just in Colorado but across the nation. To change the rights of the vulnerable and challenge the status quo, Schielke stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking justice in an often complex and intimidating legal system. Her journey from Craigslist to the courtroom inspires aspiring lawyers, proving that unconventional paths can lead to extraordinary destinations in pursuing justice.
