Yes, people really do file claims against. But first they try to settle it with them on what is known as "the private side". Courts are suppose to be used when two parties can't settle their differences and all options have been exhausted. People loose sight of that fact and jump straight to filing a suit.
I know folks that have gone to the DA and said, "look Joe, you may think you are doing the right thing trying to press these charges against me, but if you continue with them I will see in you court as you, Joe the man, and then you'll have to answer how I did harm to you. So be prepared, that's my fair and honest warning."
Usually within three to five days they have mysteriously had their cases dismissed.
These guys know the law, and when a man stands up and calls them out on it they back down because they know they are on the hook financially if they lose against your claim.
Not so much against the cops here, because the cop is only acting as an "eye witness" but I have known people who filed claims against the cops for "trespass' and have won those. Most anytime a cop stops you he is trespassing against your right to move about freely in society. But the "big fish" is the DA's & asst. DA's. in the grand scheme of things, they are the ones leveling the charges at you.
Thanks for dropping by,
Sult