Sarah Schielke: The Unconventional Crusader Reshaping Colorado’s Legal Landscape

In law, where tradition often reigns supreme, Sarah Schielke stands out as a beacon of innovation and tenacity. Her journey from a Craigslist novice to a celebrated civil rights attorney is a testament to the power of determination and out-of-the-box thinking.

Schielke’s legal odyssey began in 2010 when she found herself in Colorado, armed with a law degree but needed connections. Undeterred, she took to Craigslist, offering discount legal services with a candid disclaimer about her inexperience. This unorthodox move paid off, providing her with a wealth of experience in record time.

By 2012, Schielke had 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 learning curve, which she embraces wholeheartedly. “My whole life has been a steep learning curve, and I just love it,” Schielke remarks, encapsulating her enthusiasm for growth and challenge.

Her unique strategy of sharing body camera footage from her client’s cases with the public sets Schielke apart. This approach has proven incredibly effective, bringing national attention to police misconduct cases and securing settlements far beyond the typical amounts. The Karen Garner case is 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 internal and external reviews of the police department.

Schielke’s impact continued 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 challenging. Schielke speaks of the need for adaptability as a strong woman in the legal field, striving to change the system from within without losing herself. She takes pride in her staff of intelligent, strong women, indicating her commitment to fostering female talent in the legal profession.

One of Schielke’s proudest moments came when she stood against a judge’s order that violated her First Amendment rights. Despite the risk of being held in 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 USA TODAY’s Women of the Year honoree for Colorado, 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 is a reminder 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.