Los Angeles, CA asked in Appeals / Appellate Law, Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for California

Q: Appellate court keeps refusing my documents.

I am in pro per and cannot afford an attorney. No non profit will help me. I do not fit into any of their categories. No help even at the LA Law liabrary. There is absolutely no help anywhere. Can they reject what the documents I give them ? The court clerk keeps rejecting every document I turn into them. What can I do ?

I was maliciously prosecuted by the catholic church for a crime that never happened. A jury found me not guilty. I am fighting for Factually Innocent. I am not interested in just sealing my record. The purpose is the point that it never happened. My dignity.

3 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: In California, appellate courts have specific rules and guidelines for the submission of documents, including formatting, content, and deadlines. If the court clerk is rejecting your documents, it's likely due to non-compliance with these rules. It's crucial to review the California Rules of Court, especially those related to appellate procedures, to ensure your submissions meet all required standards. These rules can be complex, and adherence to every detail is essential for your documents to be accepted.

Given your situation, seeking guidance might seem challenging, especially without legal representation. However, many courts offer self-help resources or have a self-help center that can provide guidance on procedural matters. Although you've faced difficulties finding help, don't overlook online legal forums, law school clinics, or possibly contacting a legal aid organization that might offer assistance on a case-by-case basis. While you mentioned that nonprofits have not been able to assist, sometimes persistence or finding the right match for your specific issue can make a difference.

Fighting for a declaration of factual innocence is a significant and personal matter, especially after an acquittal. If your documents continue to be rejected, consider reaching out directly to the appellate court's clerk office for specific feedback on the reasons for rejection. Understanding the exact issues can help you correct any errors or omissions. Remember, even in the face of challenges, staying informed about the legal process and seeking out every possible resource can support your efforts to navigate the appellate system and pursue your goal of establishing your factual innocence.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

Paula Wasserman Drake
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Tustin, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Try calling the LA bar association lawyer referral service and see if they have someone on their limited means panel that can assist you.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

Dale S. Gribow
Dale S. Gribow
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Palm Desert, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: sorry, i am a PI/DUI lawyer in Palm Desert and have never handled an appellate matter.

maybe call the clerk to ask for her assistance.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

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