This session will examine the doctrine of qualified immunity as a defense to suits brought under 42 U.S. C. § 1983. The panelists will analyze the application of the defense in the context of Fourth Amendment excessive force cases with a specific focus on assertion of the defense at the Rule 12(b)(6) motion to dismiss and Rule 56 motion for summary judgment stages of litigation, including a review of caselaw regarding the summary judgment burden when courts consider video evidence. This course will also provide an overview of the standard of review for interlocutory appeals when district courts deny qualified immunity.