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.

Link to the California State Independent Living Council's list of independent living centers that assist people with diabilities

Includes a Prison to Ice to Freedom manual prepared by Asian Law Causcus

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

Tips on how to look for a lawyer to take a case, plus information on when courts may appoint a lawyer

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 Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians complaint information and forms

Link to the Medical Board of California complaint information and forms

Information and form for authorizing a lawyer, advocate, or family member to get documents from a person's CDCR health records

Information about how to ask to have a murder, attempted murder, or manslaughter conviction reduced under new laws that took effect in 2019 and 2022 (SB 1437 and SB 775)

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

Link to the Governor's website information and forms for requesting a pardons or commutation

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

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

Information on the types of issues that can be raised and legal actions that can be brought to challenge a conviction or sentence after entering a guilty or no contest plea

Link to the court's Handbook for people bringing their own lawsuits, such as federal civil rights (§ 1983) cases