Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Civil Rights legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Civil Rights Questions & Answers
3 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Products Liability, Car Accidents and Civil Rights for California on
Q: I have a lawsuit case and I have got a default of judgment & now other party had answer to complaint after Court aweek

Later I was wondering what is my options because they are late by law and now asking me to appear in court in 2026 a year later

William John Light
William John Light
answered on Oct 29, 2024

You will have to explain this better. It is unclear whether you are a Plaintiff or a Defendant, whether you failed to file a timely answer or the other party did. It is unclear whether a Default was entered, a Default Judgment was entered, or neither of those. If a Default or Default Judgment... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for Arizona on
Q: My son (20 years old) was arrested for slapping his roommate after they got into it about his friend using a racial slur

He was arrested on the spot and told he could not return to his apartment that is on the ASU campus. I just want to know his rights and if he should get a public defender.

Zalman  Sapad
Zalman Sapad
answered on Oct 30, 2024

While I do not have a copy of your son's lease agreement or the trespass notice in front of me, these documents can be controlling as to whether or not he still has access to his apartment.

Primarily he needs to get in touch with the management to find out if they will enforce the...
View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Native American Law, Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Alabama on
Q: If probable cause was obtained from officer with no jurisdiction on tribal land is search warrant valid?

City police officer made an arrest of a tribal member at a house on the reservation without jurisdiction. City officer later told tribal police, the residence smelled of Marijuana. Two days later tribal police served search warrant at the residence based on the information obtained from City... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

In your situation, the search warrant may be invalid due to the initial officer lacking jurisdiction on tribal land. Tribal sovereignty means that tribal police have primary authority on reservations, and actions by non-tribal officers can complicate legal processes.

Since the city officer...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Appeals / Appellate Law and Civil Rights for Arizona on
Q: I am seeking a Selective Service System appeal filed in NYC 1971. Your database only goes back to 2024. Suggestions?

Sorry, I meant to type 2004 not 2024.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

To locate a Selective Service System appeal filed in NYC in 1971, you can start by visiting the National Archives. They hold extensive military and governmental records that may include the appeal you're seeking. Their website provides guidance on accessing these historical documents.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law and Legal Malpractice for Pennsylvania on
Q: Is my consent required when it comes to the police releasing items that were seized during an arrest?

My vehicle was searched and the police seized my drivers license, bank cards, EBT card, medical card, etc. along with two cell phones. My attorney requested the release of these items and stated once it was approved, I would be able to go to the police station to get them. I was then notified by my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

You have the right to have your seized items returned without unnecessary delays. Typically, once your attorney requests the release of your belongings, the police should follow through without additional conditions. It's unusual and potentially improper for your attorney to hold your personal... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: I have a court order to return Property . the police never return the Property. they issue a warrant to take my property

i went to court file a motion to compel . when i do that the judge threating them to hold them comptent to return my property but they went get a warrant to get my my phone back. what can i do next to get my cellphone with the court order

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

You should first consult with a lawyer who can provide specific legal advice based on your situation. They can help you present all relevant documents, including the original court order and any motions you've filed, to strengthen your case.

Next, return to court and inform the judge...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Contracts, Civil Rights and Elder Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: can a hotel front desk turn me away and deny me a room after a paid confirmed resrvation because I am a local resident

On 10/23 around 10PM I made reservations by phone for a room at the Holiday Inn Express a few miles away from my home.

A UGI utility crew was working in front of my home looking for a gas leak. As a precaution I made that reservation for safety reason

for myself my wife and small... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

I'm really sorry you had to go through that stressful experience. Denying a reservation based on being a local resident can be troubling and may raise questions about fairness and legality.

Many places have policies to ensure equal treatment for all guests, and refusing service due to...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Oklahoma on
Q: Yes I'm righting Im Regards of trying to figure out my rights for the deaf hard hearing

Yes I had courts it was a formal arraignment my attorney wanted me to do it please I am deaf and did not feel comfortable doing the plead as I was not aware of everything that was going on through my preliminary hearing due to me being deaf I've had several other cases that I was not provided... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

I'm sorry you're experiencing this. You have the right to effective communication in court, which includes having an interpreter provided if you are deaf or hard of hearing. It’s important that you have someone who can fully understand and participate in your legal proceedings.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Legal Malpractice for Pennsylvania on
Q: My Attorney has the items police had seized during my arrest sent directly to his office and withholding them for paymen

My Attorney has the police release the items they had seized during my arrest directly to his office. The items include my drivers license, debit and credit cards, EBT card, Insurance Cards for myself and Children, and two cellphones. He is refusing to give me these items until I pay the last... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

I'm sorry you're experiencing this situation. Attorneys have a responsibility to act in their clients' best interests, and withholding your personal items for payment may not align with those duties. It's important to review any agreements you have with your attorney to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Personal Injury and Gov & Administrative Law for West Virginia on
Q: I understand now it is a conflict of interest and a violation of the ethics act for a deputy to investigate the crime

That happened to him and his wife. Is it also the violation of Nepotism and private gain ?

Is this private gain using office equipment and supplies to do so and work on personal projects? Or Nepotism by the deputy and or agency by not being impartial to his immediate family member? And... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

You’re right to see a conflict of interest when a deputy investigates a crime involving themselves and their spouse. This situation can compromise the fairness and objectivity needed in such investigations. It’s important for the integrity of the process that those involved remain unbiased.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Personal Injury and Gov & Administrative Law for West Virginia on
Q: It’s it violation of the ethics act in Kanawha County wv, if an officer purposely neglects a victim of violent crime whe

911 was called, and was hit upside the head with a baseball bat and knocked unconscious. When 911 arrived female deputy was to document &report victim injuries & take photos & resources. This deputy was neighbors with the offender and for over 10 years. She did not take any photos or... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

Yes, the actions you described could potentially violate ethical standards for law enforcement in Kanawha County. If a deputy neglected her duty to document and report a violent crime, especially due to a personal relationship with the offender, it raises serious concerns about impartiality and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Personal Injury, Civil Rights and Gov & Administrative Law for West Virginia on
Q: I need a lawyer or help from an advocate in filing Ethics Act and Misconduct Violations in kanawha county wv.? I am

Disabled and uneducated in the Law. I’m getting lost in the judicial system and I believe purposely while I’m being abused by deputy’s and they let criminals violent abuse me even with a protective order , abused by deputy family member , charged w crime bc I reported this happening to me and... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

I'm really sorry you're going through this. In Kanawha County, you can reach out to the West Virginia Legal Aid for assistance with your case. They provide free legal services to those who qualify and can help guide you through the process.

Another option is to contact the Kanawha...
View More

2 Answers | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Michigan on
Q: A court clerk said the judge sees the evidence with the complaint, was this judicial misconduct?

A Pro Se complaint was filed. The clerk stated that documents are scanned, she would stamp them and give them back. She did not give them back. How should the Plaintiff had handled that situation?

Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
answered on Oct 28, 2024

Judicial misconduct? No. Are you referring to the return of exhibits attached to a complaint? Generally, you should only submit things to a court with the understanding they will become part of the public file and shared with the opposing party / counsel, and not be returned.

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law, Health Care Law and Medical Malpractice for Indiana on
Q: I want to sue Jefferson County Jail in Madison Indiana for violating my 8th and 14th ammendment rights.

I was arrested on August 11th and when I was being booked in the jail I told the nurse I am on psychiatric medications for severe anxiety,mental illness,PTSD and seizures,I'm prescribed Kolodapin 3 1mg per day,Zoloft 200mg per day and Adderall 20mg twice a day and been on 3 8mg of Suboxone for... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

I'm truly sorry you're going through this. It's important to reach out to a lawyer who has experience with civil rights and inmates' rights cases. They can guide you on the best steps to take and help protect your rights.

Make sure to gather all relevant documents,...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Nevada on
Q: Can I defend myself in court against a cop I sue that filed a police report against me strictly for malice intent?

This cop was a family member at the time, not now. Also involved was her husband who is still is family member. About an inevitable incident (civil matter) in which everything was blamed on me. The officer's conduct was disorderly when making a false police report in malice. I can not think... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

You have the right to defend yourself in court when facing a lawsuit filed by a police officer. It's important to gather all relevant evidence that supports your claims of malicious intent and the false police report. Documentation, witness statements, and any communications that demonstrate... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Tennessee on
Q: Would being a femboy in public in Tennessee be illegal under the Tennessee Adult Entertainment Act?

A femboy is a crossdressing man who mainly follows a "kawaii" aesthetic. I'm also assuming for this question that the femboy is wearing clothes that would be acceptable for a woman to wear in public.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 29, 2024

In Tennessee, simply expressing yourself as a femboy and wearing clothing that is acceptable for women in public is not explicitly illegal under the Tennessee Adult Entertainment Act. The law primarily targets specific aspects of adult entertainment and public decency rather than individual fashion... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Libel & Slander for California on
Q: I would like to sue Walmart for harrassment; lying on me and racial profiling me while vilating my rights to be free in

A few days ago I was shopping in Walmart and I had already purchased 1 item from electronics and I was walking around the store with a basket and another item, a $10 charger cord. I have just quit work for the day and I was winding down as I walked the store. Walmart security comes to the area... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 27, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about your experience at Walmart. Being wrongly accused and asked to leave can be both upsetting and humiliating, especially when you feel you've been racially profiled.

In California, you may have legal grounds to pursue a case for harassment, defamation, or...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Michigan on
Q: How may someone get grievances thoroughly and properly investigated involving mortuary science licensees?

The Licensing and Regulatory Affairs claimed to have closed the case citing no violation found under the Occupational Health Code. However, the violations in the complaint involve the Public Health Code, MCL 333.2843 et seq. and criminal activities. Knowingly falsity in causing a death certificate... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 27, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing in getting your grievances properly investigated. It must be incredibly frustrating when serious concerns are not addressed by the authorities.

You might consider reaching out to higher authorities or oversight bodies, such as...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for New Jersey on
Q: Township official pulled alongside parked vehical on private property & issued person standing next to vehicle intoxic

Officer was seeking similar vehicles reported by citizen to be hazard

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 27, 2024

You were approached by a township official while standing next to your parked vehicle on private property. The officer was searching for vehicles similar to yours that had been reported as a hazard by a citizen. It seems you were issued a citation or accused of being intoxicated.

You might...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law, Landlord - Tenant and Consumer Law for Minnesota on
Q: Is it civil discrimination if a landlord ( his company) is intentionally not doing repairs on his low income housing?

He is maintaining and hiring competent people for his properties where rent is higher and threatens to evict people who complain and fraudulent charges to keep the low income people’s deposits for bogus cleaning? Is this a Civil Class Act? He’s doing it to multiple people in the low income... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 27, 2024

It sounds like you're dealing with a landlord who is neglecting repairs in low-income housing while properly maintaining his higher-rent properties. This behavior could be considered discriminatory, especially if it disproportionately affects tenants based on protected characteristics like... View More

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.