When justice is discussed it can take many shapes and forms. Justice can be a penalty or reward for actions. It isn’t something you can hold in your hand and touch; however, many seek it as a form of reparation. In this world riddled with litigation and language that defines what is right or wrong in the eyes of the law it makes sense to partner with someone who has the ability to speak on your behalf with knowledge of the law and can help to award an individual with the justice they seek.
We had the opportunity to speak with one of these representatives. Cannon Lambert of the law firm Karchmar & Lambert P.C., the firm currently representing the family of Sandra Bland provided some insight as to who he is, and the importance of what he does.
Tell us about yourself. Who are you?
I’m a native to the Chicago land area. My wife (Amy Lambert) and two children (Cannon II and Ivory Lambert) are the center of my life. I am also blessed to have my mother, father, step-father and two sisters here close to me. I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to service the Chicago land community as an attorney for 20 years. My practice centers around wrongful death, catastrophic injury, auto collisions, nursing home abuse, and civil rights litigation. Before founding the Law Offices of Karchmar & Lambert, P.C. 13 years ago, I worked for the Johnnie Cochran firm here in Chicago for several years.
What is it about what you do that is fulfilling?
I am humbled every time someone gives me the opportunity to assist them when they are in need. In the work I do, I have the chance to help vindicate people who have suffered or have been wronged. I’m proud to be a resource to my community and grateful for how my community has been so supportive of me in my career endeavors.
What are your feelings with regards to police and civilian relationships specific to the African American community?
We, in the African American community, have reason to be concerned with the way that we are systematically treated. While there are good officers to be sure, it is just reality that there are some officers that discredit their profession and create distrust by virtue of the way they conduct policing. The African American community has a right to expect to be able to rely on law enforcement just like everyone else. Those things that call our faith in the police into question have to be addressed and irradiated.
You are currently counsel for an extremely high-profile client. Can you tell us who that is and how everything is moving along with the case?
I am currently the attorney for Sandra Bland’s family. We have filed suit and will be responding to the Defendant’s motion to dismiss. The case is in the infancy stages and will begin to heat up after the preliminary motion practice is completed.
What would your advice be to the general public when it comes to dealing with law enforcement?
We have to acknowledge and respect that the job of law enforcement is a very difficult and dangerous one. The more mutually cooperative that the community and law enforcement can become, the better off we will be. There’s nothing wrong with showing our appreciation for those officers who serve and protect us. Just like there is absolutely nothing wrong with calling for the dismissal and/or removal of those officers who abuse and mistreat us.
What words of encouragement would you like to leave with our readers?
Don’t talk about it; be about it. When we mobilize and commit to making change happen, it does. Power rests with people. Have the courage to be a vehicle to effect and create change.
