Few stories are as compelling in civil rights law as that of Sarah Schielke, a Colorado attorney whose unconventional journey and innovative tactics have redefined the landscape of legal advocacy. Recognized as one of USA TODAY’s Women of the Year, Schielke’s path from a novice posting on Craigslist to a formidable force in civil rights litigation is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Schielke’s legal odyssey began in 2010 when fresh from Boston University School of Law and seeking a new start in Colorado, she took an unorthodox approach to launching her career. With no connections or experience, she turned to Craigslist, which offered discounted legal services with a candid disclaimer about her novice status. This bold move proved surprisingly fruitful, providing Schielke with a wealth of experience in short order.
By 2012, armed with this hands-on knowledge, Schielke established the Life and Liberty Law Office, focusing on her passions: criminal defense and civil rights litigation. Her approach to law has been characterized by a steep, self-imposed learning curve, which she embraces enthusiastically. “My whole life has been a steep learning curve, and I just love it,” Schielke remarks, encapsulating her zest for growth and challenge.
What sets Schielke apart in the legal field is her groundbreaking strategy of sharing body camera footage from her client’s cases with the public. This approach has proven remarkably effective, bringing national attention to police misconduct cases and securing settlements far beyond typical amounts. The Karen Garner case stands out as a prime example. By releasing footage of Garner’s arrest – a woman with dementia who was injured by Loveland police – Schielke not only secured a $3 million settlement but also prompted comprehensive reviews of the police department.
Schielke’s impact continued to resonate in 2022 with a record-breaking $7 million settlement against the Idaho Springs Department for a case involving a “brutal tasing attack.” These victories underscore her ability to leverage public attention to hold law enforcement accountable and secure justice for her clients.
Her path has been filled with obstacles. Schielke speaks candidly about the need for adaptability as a strong woman in the legal field, striving to change the system from within while staying true to herself. She takes pride in fostering female talent, evidenced by her all-women staff.
One of Schielke’s defining moments came when she stood her ground against a judge’s order that she believed violated her First Amendment rights. Despite the risk of contempt, she released body camera footage, following the judge’s order to the letter while still achieving her goal of public transparency. This incident, which resulted in a dismissed citation she now keeps framed, exemplifies her unwavering commitment to justice and her clients.
Personal loss has also shaped Schielke’s approach to law and life. Her father’s passing early in her career led her to reframe her perspective, fostering gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness. This experience informs her definition of courage: the determination to right wrongs and improve the world, even in the face of powerful opposition.
Schielke’s guiding principle is a compassionate understanding of human nature. She believes there are “two types of people: There are good people, and there are good people in pain.” This perspective allows her to approach even the most challenging cases with empathy and insight.
Her success is built on a foundation of continuous learning and collaboration. Schielke emphasizes the importance of reading extensively, reaching out to more experienced colleagues, and constantly seeking to expand her knowledge. She also credits her supportive husband, a stay-at-home dad, for enabling her demanding career.
From her unconventional start on Craigslist to becoming a nationally recognized civil rights attorney, Sarah Schielke’s career is a powerful example of how determination, innovation, and a solid moral compass can reshape the legal landscape. Her work secures justice for her clients and pushes for broader accountability and reform within law enforcement.
Schielke’s journey inspires aspiring lawyers and reminds them that the path to success only sometimes follows a traditional route. Her story underscores the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to challenge the status quo in pursuit of justice. As she continues to make waves in the legal world, Sarah Schielke stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in civil rights law.
