
Informational Resources
California Jails
California State Bar Attorney Complaint Form
Form for complaining about problems with a lawyer, such as failure to communicate, ineffective assistance, and over-billing
Government Claims Information
Information on the Department of Risk Management process for asking for compensation for injury or loss of property caused by prison or jail staff. This process must be completed before filing a state lawsuit seeking money damages.
California State Court Habeas Corpus Petitions
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.
National Immigration Legal Services Directory
Database maintained by the National Immigration Legal Services Directory for orginizations offering immigration services. Searchable by zip code or name of institution.
Filing a Grievance in County Jail
Summary of why and how to file a grievance about policies or actions by jail staff, which also may be required to preserve your rights to file a legal case
Trying to Find a Lawyer
Tips on how to look for a lawyer to take a case, plus information on when courts may appoint a lawyer
Filing a Complaint About an LVN or PT
Link to the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians complaint information and forms
Filing a Complaint About a Doctor
Link to the Medical Board of California complaint information and forms
Lawsuits for Money Damages Against Prison Officials or Staff
Information about federal civil rights lawsuits (§ 1983) and state tort or civil rights lawsuits seeking money damages for injuries or property loss, including the administrative claims that must be filed to preserve rights to sue and filing timelines
Representing Yourself in Federal Court (Northern Disctrict of California)
Link to the court's Handbook for people bringing their own lawsuits, such as federal civil rights (§ 1983) cases
Small Claims Lawsuits
Link to the California Department of Consumer Affairs information about a relatively simple type of legal action for seeking money damages for personal injury or loss or damage of property
U.S. Supreme Court Petition for Writ of Certiorari Guide
U.S. Supreme Court Guide to Filing In Forma Pauperis Cases, for filing a petition for asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review a case following completion of lower court appeal and/or writ processes
Three-Strikes and Two-Strikes Law
Summary of who can be sentenced under the three-strikes law and two-strikes law