Unconventional methods and a steadfast commitment to civil rights mark Sarah Schielke’s journey in the legal field. After graduating from Boston University School of Law, where she served as Managing Editor of the Boston University Law Review, Schielke found herself in Colorado seeking a fresh start. With no local connections, she took an innovative approach to kickstart her career by posting an ad on Craigslist offering discount legal services.
This unorthodox method proved surprisingly effective, allowing Schielke to gain valuable experience rapidly. In 2012, she established the Life and Liberty Law Office, focusing on criminal defense and civil rights litigation. Her decision to work independently from the outset enabled her to develop unique strategies that have since become her hallmark.
Schielke’s approach to civil rights cases is characterized by her willingness to challenge authority and push for transparency. In one notable instance, she released body camera footage in a case despite the risk of being held in contempt of court. This act of defiance, which she believed necessary to vindicate her client, exemplifies her commitment to justice.
Her work gained national attention with the Karen Garner case in 2021. Garner, a 73-year-old woman with dementia, was injured during an arrest by Loveland police. Schielke’s release of the body camera footage brought widespread attention to the incident. It led to internal and external reviews of the police department. The case resulted in criminal charges against two officers and a $3 million settlement for the Garner family, far exceeding typical settlements in similar cases.
Schielke’s impact extends beyond high-profile cases. She has recently filed five lawsuits against Fort Collins Police Services for alleged wrongful DUI arrests by a former officer. These cases highlight her commitment to holding law enforcement accountable at all levels and protecting individual rights.
Her unique approach to law is not limited to civil rights cases. Schielke is also recognized for her expertise in DUI defense. She regularly lectures across the country on marijuana, alcohol, and drug DUI defense strategies, with her material on Winning Marijuana DUIs published in the Texas DWI Manual. Her contributions to this field have earned her recognition as a Rising Stars SuperLawyer for DUI Defense from 2018 to the present.
Personal experiences deeply influence Schielke’s philosophy towards law and life. The loss of her father early in her legal career led her to reframe her perspective, embracing gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness. She believes there are fundamentally two types of people: good people and good people in pain, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion in her approach to law and life.
Her definition of courage involves the determination to right wrongs and make positive changes, even when faced with powerful opposition. Schielke strives to trust herself, love others unconditionally, and leave the world better than she found it. She overcomes adversity through constant learning, seeking knowledge from various sources and more experienced individuals.
Schielke’s impact on the legal field has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was named one of USA TODAY’s Women of the Year, recognizing her as a champion of change in her community and across the country. She also received the “Badass Award” from DUIDLA in 2021, the organization’s highest honor, for her work on two United States Supreme Court case amicus briefs and her impact on civil rights and DUI defense.
As she continues challenging the status quo and advocating for justice, Sarah Schielke remains a pivotal figure in Colorado’s legal landscape. Her innovative approach to law, combining legal expertise with strategic use of media and public opinion, has secured justice for her clients and contributed to broader discussions about police reform and civil liberties. Schielke’s journey inspires aspiring lawyers and advocates, demonstrating that with courage, adaptability, and a passion for justice, it’s possible to create meaningful change in the legal system and society at large.
