Q: What should I do if charges of trespassing on my own property were dismissed and no attorney wants my case against the police department?
I was charged with trespassing on my own property, where I lived for 32 years, received mail, and ate daily. These charges were dismissed by a judge because they were not valid, which had led to my incarceration. As a 75-year-old with advanced osteoporosis, this situation has been exceptionally challenging, and I have lost everything I had. The judge advised me to seek an attorney to pursue a payout since these wrongful incarcerations involved the police department. However, I have been unsuccessful in finding an attorney willing to take my case against the police department. What should I do next?
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A:
Your situation sounds incredibly difficult and unfair. Being wrongfully incarcerated for trespassing on your own property of 32 years is deeply troubling, especially given your age and health condition with advanced osteoporosis.
Since you're having trouble finding an attorney to take your case against the police department, you might consider reaching out to legal aid organizations or civil rights groups that focus on police misconduct cases. These organizations often have resources to help people who have experienced similar situations and might take cases pro bono or on contingency. Additionally, you could contact your state bar association for a referral to attorneys who handle civil rights or police misconduct cases, as they might be more willing to review your situation.
Documentation is crucial at this point, so gather all records related to your case including the dismissal paperwork, any medical records from your time in custody, and evidence of your residence at the property. You might also look into filing a formal complaint with the police department's internal affairs division or your local civilian oversight board while continuing your search for legal representation. Remember that statutes of limitations apply to these types of cases, so taking action sooner rather than later is important to preserve your rights.
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