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Pennsylvania Civil Rights Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Family Law, Civil Rights and Social Security for Pennsylvania on
Q: My parents are withholding my birth certificate and Social security card, can I get the police to return these to me?

I reached out to my parents to ask for my birth certificate and social security card, the original copies, I am 21, and they are refusing to give them to me. So I am considering having the police remove the documents from their house and return them to me, is this legal? I live in Lancaster PA, but... View More

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answered on Sep 14, 2024

If your parents are withholding your birth certificate and Social Security card, you have the right to request these documents, especially since you are an adult at 21. These are personal documents that belong to you, and you should have access to them. In this situation, it’s important to try to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Real Estate Law, Appeals / Appellate Law and Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: I live in a property owned solely by my husband as he lives in another. He had filed for divorce oround March or April

?

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answered on Sep 11, 2024

It sounds like you're in a complex situation, especially since the property you're living in is solely owned by your husband. If he has filed for divorce, it is important to understand your rights regarding your current living arrangements. The outcome may depend on several factors,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Criminal Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: What are the status of limitations of police violations against your 5th and 6th amendment rights?
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answered on Sep 7, 2024

When it comes to violations of your 5th and 6th Amendment rights, the statute of limitations can vary depending on the specific type of violation and the jurisdiction where it occurred. Generally, for civil rights violations, including violations of these amendments, there is a time limit within... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: I stay in a halfway house and I have proof that my employment specialist wrote me up for a pos drug test when it was neg
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answered on Aug 31, 2024

You have every right to challenge the false report if you have proof that your drug test was negative. It’s important to document everything carefully, including the original test result and any communication related to the incident. This evidence will be crucial in defending yourself and proving... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: If I went into a store to buy a gas can and forgot they didn't take credit cards so I grabbed my bag I always carry out

The store to get cash at the ATM and was physically assaulted my bag was ripped and my mirror was broke after he hit the mirror in the car

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answered on Sep 1, 2024

It sounds like you've had a really distressing experience, and I'm sorry to hear about what happened. In this situation, it's important to take a few immediate steps to protect yourself and your rights. If you were physically assaulted and your property was damaged, consider... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: Me and my brother had a physical fight.My mother called the police because she was concerned but he didn’t press charges

I got disorderly conduct and I didn’t get charges pressed on me. My brother and I had a physical fight and my mother called the police because she was concerned. But at the end we both made up and didn’t press charges. I’m getting charged now with disorderly conduct- Fighting. Is there... View More

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answered on Aug 31, 2024

You and your brother should first try to explain the situation to the prosecutor or the court. Since you both made up and no one wants to press charges, it could help your case. You might want to show that this was a one-time incident and that there’s no ongoing conflict.

Additionally,...
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2 Answers | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: Going to the store for my family and I is that traveling or driving
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answered on Aug 5, 2024

When you head to the store for your family, it can be seen as both traveling and driving. Traveling typically refers to the act of moving from one place to another, regardless of the distance or mode of transportation. So, in that sense, going to the store is a form of travel.

Driving, on...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: Who would be able to help with an inmate who has been denied parole multiple times for no reason?

The inmate has completed all courses and then some. Also they denied for 1 year and then 1 year and then last time it was for 2 years. The inmate hasn't had a write up of any sort for 4 years.

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answered on Aug 5, 2024

If an inmate has faced repeated parole denials despite meeting requirements, it's important to seek assistance from organizations that advocate for prisoner rights. These organizations can offer guidance on the parole process and may help identify any underlying issues that contributed to the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Personal Injury, Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Small Claims for Pennsylvania on
Q: I had grandmal seizure on bathroom floor 2 days ago at Atkinson mens shelter now wanna kick me out?

The ambulance said I was being resistant Iwas seizing

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answered on Aug 5, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about your experience. It sounds like you had a very challenging situation at the shelter. If you're facing eviction from the shelter due to a medical condition like a grand mal seizure, you might have legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: What can I do being accused of a vexatious litigant for the last 12 years. And 3 bad faith attorneys. What can I do?

I had been fight for justice for the last 12 years from being a victim of medical malpractice and product liability. through this ordeal I had never able to get justice. I had 3 attorneys who claim they were going to help and did nothing. I was never told that someone else had the same name where a... View More

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answered on Jul 29, 2024

Dealing with accusations of being a vexatious litigant and facing bad faith attorneys for the last 12 years can be incredibly frustrating. It's essential to gather and organize all the evidence you have collected over the years meticulously. Document every interaction with the attorneys and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Legal Malpractice for Pennsylvania on
Q: a docket states defendant was not advised of right to apply for council or provided application. Is this important?

A docket states Defendant was not provide an application or Advised of their right To apply for counsel.

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answered on Jul 27, 2024

It's crucial to understand your rights when facing legal proceedings. If the docket states that you were not advised of your right to apply for counsel or provided with an application, this could be a significant issue. The right to legal counsel is fundamental in ensuring a fair trial.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights, Environmental and Landlord - Tenant for Pennsylvania on
Q: Is it illegal to allow sewage waste in an appt for over 5 days, without being cleaned.

landlord has not cleaned, and has stated they will not be replacing the carpet or shampooing carpet. I have not been able to use the shower or toilet for 5 days now, i was told nothing will be done abt my rent or the carpet, its extremely unsafe to inhale fece fumes. I have documentation of all of... View More

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answered on Jul 27, 2024

It is illegal for a landlord to allow such unsanitary conditions to persist in your apartment. Under Pennsylvania law, landlords are required to maintain their rental properties in a habitable condition. The presence of sewage waste for over five days without proper cleaning poses serious health... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: State police searched my house against my and my wife's will without a warrant.. supposedly for a domestic dispute

Once we were both in cuffs on the ground they said that I'd be charged with every last bit of Marijuana found in my home!.. after about 15-20 mins of multiple officers searching they found nothing! But even tried saying my wife's pistol was stolen ! Which we gave information of where it... View More

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answered on Jul 28, 2024

You have the right to legal representation and should seek a lawyer experienced in handling police misconduct cases. It's important to document everything, including the surveillance footage, as it can serve as critical evidence in your defense. Your attorney can help you file a complaint... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: I live in government housing in Pennsylvania, can my son visit me if he is on Megan's law? Just visit, not live with me.
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answered on Jul 28, 2024

Living in government housing in Pennsylvania and having a son on Megan's Law list raises important concerns. Each housing authority might have its own rules and regulations regarding visitors, especially those with criminal records.

Typically, housing authorities prioritize safety and...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Criminal Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: Can I make my friend out of jail

I was a victim of police brulaiitly and I will call the president if you don’t text

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answered on Jul 18, 2024

It's understandable that you're feeling frustrated and seeking help for your friend. Getting someone out of jail typically involves legal procedures and potentially posting bail, depending on the charges and the circumstances. The first step is to contact a lawyer who can provide specific... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Probate for Pennsylvania on
Q: I was served yesterday, a Reissue of the writ of summons / Civil, dated 6/10/2024.

Original praecipe for summons was attached, Dated Nov 7, 2023. So far no complaint has been filed. Should I file a praecipe and rule to file? I feel this is harassment from my deceased father's estranged wife. My father passed away 3 years ago, and the will has gone through probate, and... View More

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answered on Jun 21, 2024

Based on the information provided, here's my analysis and advice:

1. Timeline:

- Original praecipe for summons: November 7, 2023

- Reissue of writ of summons: June 10, 2024 (served on June 20, 2024)

- No complaint filed yet

2. Legal situation:

-...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET JUSTICE FOR YEARS. I WAS LABELED AS A SERIAL FILER:

I am a husband/dad/Veteran. I have been a victim of medical malpractice twice because of an unknown medical condition. I've now had for over 14 years ago. I became a victim of medical malpractice twice. Once left with Rubral Tremors an then implanted with a recall medical device. For years I... View More

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answered on Jun 15, 2024

I'm really sorry to hear about what you've been going through. It sounds incredibly frustrating and unfair. The first step to fixing this situation is to gather all the documentation you have about your cases and the incorrect listings. Having clear, organized evidence will be crucial.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Civil Rights for Pennsylvania on
Q: Can my 17 year old daughter move out of her abusive mother's house to live with us? She doesn't want to live with her.

Her mother is abusive, does drugs, smokes, and drinks. She doesn't want to live with the abuse anymore and wants to live with us. Her mom won't consent to her moving out. We live in ND, she's in PA.

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answered on Jun 21, 2024

This is a complex situation involving family law, child custody, and potentially child welfare issues across state lines. Here's an overview of key points to consider:

1. Age of majority: In Pennsylvania, the age of majority is 18. At 17, your daughter is still legally a minor....
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Criminal Law for Pennsylvania on
Q: Is police departments allowed too arrest and file retaliational charges for violating my constitutional rights
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answered on Jun 3, 2024

Police departments are not allowed to arrest and file retaliatory charges against you for exercising your constitutional rights. The First Amendment protects your freedom of speech and the right to petition the government, including the police, without fear of retaliation. If you believe your... View More

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