How people in custody or supervision can ask for disability accommodations and report violations of their disability rights by any public agency

How to file administrative grievances and appeals (Forms 602-1/602-2 and 602 HC), which sometimes can solve prison and parole issues and usually must be completed before a court challenge

Learn about eligibility for programs that allow people to serve part of their sentence in the community

CDCR's matrix showing who is eligible to be placed in fire camp or minimum custody

Information on constitutional rights and CDCR rules about using confidential information in disciplinary and classification proceedings

Information and sample habeas corpus petition for challenging poor prison structural conditions

Information about the laws concerning CDCR's consideration of family ties in deciding where to house someone

Information on rights and legal remedies when prison staff use excessive physical force. (Note: there is a separate resource with additional information on misconduct complaints against CDCR staff.)

Information on the laws concerning when prison staff can classify someone as a prison gang or street gang member or associate

Information and forms for filing a state habeas corpus petition. A state habeas corpus petition can be used to challenge policies or actions by prison or jail staff or (in some circumstances) to challenge a criminal conviction or sentence.

Information about the rules for getting access to a law library and what materials CDCR is required to provide

Information on the rules for sending confidential mail to lawyers, the courts, and government officials

This non-profit organization publishes resources for people in prisons and jails, including a detailed Incarcerated Parents Manual that discusses child custody, child visitation, and divorce issues

Link to the California Court's self-help page on how to change your name(Note: We have a separate resource on the special rules for transgender people who want to change their name and gender.)

Information on CDCR’s rules for moving some people out of Sensitive Needs Yards (SNYs) and criteria for remaining on a SNY

How to ask for replacement or money compensation when prison staff lose or damage an incarcerated person's property

Information on rules regarding "R" Classification Suffixes for sex offense charges

Information on laws protecting the right to practice a religion

Information about recent laws concerning collection of restitution, fees, and fines that are imposed as part of a criminal sentence

Information about who can be placed in a restricted housing unit (RHU, formerly called ASU or SHU) for administrative reasons, protection, or punishment