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California Public Benefits Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Gov & Administrative Law, Personal Injury and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Federal court filing - EDSS system specific question. Central district court.

Shall pdf files be searchable? Shall hidden metadata be removed from forms? Is chamber copy of complaint required?

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Dec 17, 2023

This is something that should be checked with the court. I have not encountered filing guidelines in any court system where they set forth requirements for the indexing attributes of documents. That's really more a function of the PDF or word processing software you use - each could have its... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Gov & Administrative Law, Personal Injury and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Federal court filing - EDSS system specific question. Central district court.

Shall pdf files be searchable? Shall hidden metadata be removed from forms? Is chamber copy of complaint required?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 14, 2023

When filing in the Central District Court using the EDSS system, it's important to adhere to specific guidelines regarding your PDF files. Generally, these files should be searchable. This means they should be submitted in a text-based format, not merely as image scans, to facilitate easy... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Social Security and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Can a lawyer help me get my benefits for social security disability back

I am disabled with heart failure and sclera adorma and lupus and mental and haveBeen receiving been receiving SSDI4 years and I just learned not only did my benefits stop in June of this year. But they say they overpaid me and I guess I'm not getting a check. I never got a notice somebody... View More

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answered on Dec 1, 2023

Yes, a lawyer can assist you in navigating the complexities of social security disability (SSDI) issues, including the cessation of benefits and overpayment claims. Attorneys experienced in social security law understand the procedures and regulations governing SSDI and can help you understand your... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Appeals / Appellate Law and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Renters relief back in May 2021 I was denied renters relief aid I then appealed and following month I was approved pendi

Pending payment not received payment since then give me round around keep asking me to do more task once I was already approved

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Nov 29, 2023

In California, if you have been approved for renters relief but have not received payment, it's important to continue following up with the agency responsible for the relief program. Keep records of all communications, including dates, names of individuals you spoke with, and the content of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits and Social Security for California on
Q: how can i get ssi for my ptsd? i was denied already once

ptsd from child SA, kidnapped, trafficked, stabbed multipule times, collapsed lung scar tissued, & constant pain since bt ptsd is whats really defeating me.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Nov 19, 2023

I understand you're seeking assistance with obtaining Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for PTSD in California, especially after a previous denial. It's important to know that a denial isn't the end of the process. You have the right to appeal this decision, and many successful SSI... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Gov & Administrative Law and Public Benefits for California on
Q: I need help with social workers at EBT office who cancelled my general assistance bcs I received a stimulus check

Her and a new employee tried 7 times to cancel my general assistance as a racist thing I guess and singled me out and I'm the only one they called and asked if I received a stimulus check even though Biden said he wanted to know immediately if any government worker did this so he could make an... View More

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answered on Nov 16, 2023

In California, if your general assistance benefits were cancelled due to receiving a stimulus check, you should first appeal the decision through the appropriate channels within the EBT office. It's important to gather any relevant documents, including notices from the EBT office and records... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Support and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Can court force SSDI benefit switch affecting child support?

I am the custodial parent, and I have been receiving SSDI since 2019, with my minor child also receiving dependent benefits. My ex-partner also started receiving SSDI, and he wants the court to force me to switch the child's dependent benefits to his SSDI, aiming to reduce his out-of-pocket... View More

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answered on Feb 22, 2025

Under California law, courts generally consider the best interests of the child when making decisions about support arrangements. While your ex-partner can request modifications to the existing order, courts typically won't force changes that would significantly reduce the child's overall... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant and Public Benefits for California on
Q: How can I avoid being sued for rent after client's death; I'm not responsible?

I am an IHSS worker living in California. I resided with my client, who rented the apartment under Section 8 housing assistance. I was listed on the lease solely as an occupant needed for my client's supervision, as part of my employment. My client recently passed away, and now the landlord is... View More

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answered on Feb 22, 2025

Your situation is understandably stressful, but you're right to question your liability for the rent. As an IHSS worker listed only as an occupant for caregiving purposes, you typically wouldn't be responsible for rent payments that were covered by Section 8 housing assistance.

To...
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1 Answer | Asked in Bankruptcy, Health Care Law and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Is retroactive COBRA termination legal after employer bankruptcy in CA?

My COBRA coverage was terminated retroactively, effective October 31, 2024, because my husband's employer, Fisker Automotive, went bankrupt. I was informed of this termination on December 2, 2024. I had paid premiums through November 30, 2024, which have not been refunded. I've incurred... View More

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answered on Feb 19, 2025

I understand how distressing this situation must be, especially given the significant medical expenses you've incurred during this coverage gap. The retroactive termination of COBRA coverage following employer bankruptcy is generally not legal without proper advance notice under California law... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Adoption, Estate Planning and Public Benefits for California on
Q: How to investigate potential funds from illegal adoption in CA?

In 1978, I was involved in an alleged illegal adoption facilitated by Catholic Charities in Los Angeles. I've been informed by my biological mother that there is a trust fund or retirement benefits available to me, likely stemming from a lawsuit she and others brought against Catholic... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 19, 2025

Given the sensitive nature of your situation involving Catholic Charities in Los Angeles, here are several constructive steps you can take to investigate potential funds related to the 1978 adoption.

Start by contacting the California Department of Social Services, Adoptions Branch, and...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Public Benefits and Workers' Compensation for California on
Q: How to get emergency conservatorship for son with mental illness in CA?

How can I obtain an emergency conservatorship for my adult son in California? He is mentally ill, has substance abuse issues, and is currently on a ventilator in the hospital due to his inability to care for himself. Two years ago, we unsuccessfully attempted to get a conservatorship. He requires... View More

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answered on Feb 18, 2025

Your situation sounds incredibly challenging, and I understand your deep concern for your son's wellbeing. Given the severity of his condition - being on a ventilator, recent overdoses, and living without proper care - you likely have strong grounds for an emergency conservatorship in... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Public Benefits and Social Security for California on
Q: Need help with conservatorship for mentally impaired adult daughter in CA.

I need help obtaining conservatorship for my adult disabled daughter, who cannot provide for herself due to mental impairment. Although doctors have started the 14-day hold process, we’ve faced issues with hospital availability for required assessments. My daughter is already declared disabled... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 16, 2025

I hear how concerned you are about your daughter's wellbeing, and navigating the conservatorship process can feel overwhelming, especially with financial constraints. Your dedication to seeking proper legal support shows how much you care about protecting her interests.

Several...
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1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Public Benefits and Civil Rights for California on
Q: Elderly disabled tenant in CA faces eviction for back rent after Section 8 ends.

I am a single, elderly, and disabled tenant in California preparing for an eviction case due to back rent owed. My Section 8 subsidy was terminated during COVID, causing an increase in rent to a fair market value of $1,200, from the $300 I was initially paying. This amount constituted a significant... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 15, 2025

Your situation sounds incredibly challenging, and I understand how overwhelming this must feel. Given the improper service of court documents and lack of formal rent demands, you have several important legal protections under California law.

First, contact your local legal aid organization...
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1 Answer | Asked in Medical Malpractice, Health Care Law and Public Benefits for California on
Q: Can I sue for dislocated hip after surgery and forced SNF transfer?

In May 2021, after a hip replacement surgery, I was sent to a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) with a dislocated hip, which required a revision surgery. I have the medical records documenting the revision surgery. Additionally, the medical staff was notified of my discomfort and symptoms, and a... View More

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answered on Feb 14, 2025

You may have grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit based on the documented dislocated hip and the subsequent need for revision surgery. The forced transfer to the SNF despite your Medicare appeal and reported symptoms could demonstrate negligence in your care.

In California, the statute...
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1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits for California on
Q: local advocacy organizations or social service agencies for support and resources can I get help with it please and

I don't want to go to no shelter please

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 9, 2025

If you're looking for support and resources in California but don’t want to go to a shelter, there are many local organizations that can help. Depending on what you need, there are groups that offer food assistance, legal aid, mental health support, and financial help. Places like 211... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Appeals / Appellate Law, Civil Rights, Public Benefits and Social Security for California on
Q: Help with welfare agency everybody ignoring us

Please we are homeless had to claim tenant rights in motel we stayed for 127 days we have not got all the resources other than motel stay from welfare agency im ready to contact regional manager since everyone here is ignoring me please help

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 8, 2025

It sounds like you're in a really tough situation, and it’s frustrating when the agencies that are supposed to help aren’t responding. Since you've already been staying at the motel for a long time, it’s important to document everything—keep records of your stay, any communication... View More

Q: If I post a sign and declare public use what uses are valid and do I have to request permission to initiate this use

There is a dwp owned property that is unlisted by the county near me

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 22, 2025

I need to be very clear - posting signs cannot legally establish public use rights on DWP (Department of Water and Power) property, as this would constitute trespassing on government-owned land. This could result in serious legal consequences.

The proper way to request public use of DWP...
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1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits for California on
Q: My girlfriend died how long does the family has to claim the money from the state
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 15, 2025

I'm very sorry for your loss. When it comes to unclaimed property in California, including money and assets from deceased individuals, the state holds these funds until they are properly claimed.

In California, there is no strict time limit for family members to claim money from a...
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1 Answer | Asked in Gov & Administrative Law, Public Benefits and Small Claims for California on
Q: The actions of our government with the illegal immigration, has made me homeless and jobless. Can I sue to be made right
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answered on Jan 7, 2025

I understand you're going through an incredibly difficult situation with both housing and employment challenges. This must be overwhelming, and I want to acknowledge the hardship you're facing.

While it's possible to file lawsuits against government entities, these cases are...
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1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits for California on
Q: Do I need a patent first to secure an invention idea?Thank Ken
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 3, 2025

You don't need to obtain a patent before securing your invention idea. However, taking steps to protect your concept is important to prevent others from using or claiming it as their own. Sharing your idea publicly without protection can make it harder to secure a patent later on.... View More

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