NCJ Number
73220
Journal
Columbia Human Rights Law Review Volume: 9 N 2 and V 10 Issue: 1, double issue Dated: (Fall-Winter 1977-78, Spring-Summer 1978) Pages: complete issue
Date Published
1978
Length
511 pages
Annotation
This manual instructs New York prison inmates in their constitutional rights and statutes protecting these rights; a wide variety of legal issues and procedures are covered, such as guaranteed freedoms, obtaining legal assistance, preparing and presenting suits, and others.
Abstract
Articles discuss legal issues by examining court decisions based on constitutional and statutory laws. Detailed instructions are given, where necessary, on filing complaints and motions. A section on obtaining information about inmate legal rights gives instruction in legal research, the duty of prisons to provide law libraries and legal assistance, and how inmates may use the New York Freedom of Information Law to obtain their records. A section on filing lawsuits covers choosing a court; when and how to use Federal Habeas Corpus, 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, tort actions, and various New York statutes; and how to appeal. Articles on legal issues pertinent to prison life discuss inmates' rights at disciplinary proceedings; constitutional amendments and Federal and New York statutes guaranteeing inmates freedom of speech, religion, and freedom from assault; obtaining relief from the courts; and the New York prisoners' grievance program. A section on release from prison covers temporary release programs in New York and the right of inmates to due process in the administration of these programs; parole; and conditional release and good time allowances. Final articles on legal aid cover obtaining a lawyer and contain a directory of legal and social services for inmates in New York City and State. Appendixes present a list, New York's Federal District and State courts, a list of New York District Attorneys' addresses, advice about filing poor person's papers with county attorneys, and a glossary. Footnotes, sample legal forms, and various statutes are included.