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Q: Can I pursue a medical malpractice claim for an incorrect hip surgery in California?
I signed a consent form for surgery on my right hip, but instead, a procedure was performed on my pelvis. Since this surgery, I've become wheelchair-bound and developed severe back issues. My new surgeon has said that the initial surgery was performed incorrectly and has contributed to my... View More 
Joel G. Selik
answered on Jul 13, 2026
answered on Jul 13, 2026
Yes.
Malpractice means that a health care provider violated the standard of care. A bad outcome is not enough. Another health care provider would be needed to evaluate what the health care provider did.
But, failure to obtain informed consent is a type of malpractice.... View More
Q: Can my employer stop paying sick leave after 54 hours in CA for surgery recovery?
I am an employee in California, and I had a hysterectomy, which required me to take time off from my physical job. I have a doctor's note and have accumulated 100 hours of sick time. However, my employer stopped paying me after 54 hours, stating they are not required to pay beyond that. Under... View More
Michael R Trust
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
Hello. CA law deals with CA Paid Sick Time; your employer can have any policy that meets or exceeds that law (and if you're in a municipality with a stronger paid sick leave law, the same applies). The question here is not about the law; it's about the employer's policy for the use... View More
Q: How can I reopen my father's case in Texas to prove his innocence with new sibling testimonies?
I'm seeking guidance on how to reopen my father's case in Texas, where he was recently convicted and sentenced to 45 years for sexual abuse. My oldest brother testified during the trial, stating that our father did not commit the crime. We have additional testimonies from our siblings,... View More
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Mark W. Bennett
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
You're looking for a lawyer who does postconviction work.
Additional evidence can be added to the record in a motion for new trial, if that is filed within 30 days of the sentencing, but that's not going to do any good on direct appeal.
You probably want to wait till the... View More
Q: Can increased testing and payments prevent probation revocation in Texas?
I am on probation in Texas and have failed two drug tests. My probation officer mentioned filing for revocation. I'm also behind on fees and court costs but have been making some payments. If I propose increased drug testing every two weeks and commit to regular payments on my fees, could this... View More
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Herman Martinez
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
It is not up to your officer whether you are revoked or not. Typically, the officer sends your violations to the court. Next, the court decides if they want to proceed with a motto to revoke. If they choose to proceed a warrant for your arrest is issued. Even though a motion to revoke your... View More
Q: How to pursue a legal action after inmate death in prison riot?
I am seeking legal guidance after the tragic death of my son in a riot at the Beaumont Federal Prison in Texas in June 2025. My son was stabbed twice in the heart by two different individuals during the incident. Although his body has been sent home, I have received a tort form and am unsure how to... View More
Scott Martin Hendler
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
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answered on Jul 13, 2026
My condolences for the loss of your son. With respect to reviewing the "tort" form you mentioned, You will need to consult with a lawyer experienced in civil rights litigation involving 42 U.S.C. section 1983. There should be a number of lawyers with that experience readily identifiable... View More
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