Legal Resources
Know Your Systems
These resources contain information to expose and explain the criminal justice system and the steps you can expect if you or a loved one has an open case.
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Know Your Rights - A series for infographics from Up Against the Law explaining your rights and the best ways to handle various encounters with law enforcement -- when witnessing police actions, if you are stopped on the street, for students at school, if you are at home, or if pulled over in a car)
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What to do after arrest - The first steps to take
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Know Your Systems videos - showing each step from arrest to trial, and how you can take action at each stage with support from the Hub and your community
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Locating a Docket Sheet - look up your public docket sheet to see your charges, next court date, and who is representing you
Work with an Attorney
These resources can help you to communicate and work with a lawyer, who is your number one go-to for any issues related to your case.
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Questions to Ask Your Attorney at the early stages of your case
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Here are some options if you're having issues with your lawyer
Create a Social Bio
This is a collection of documents, character letters, photographs, and other evidence to show a judge and jury who you are -- painting a picture of the person beyond the charges on paper and showing them how much the community needs you free.
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Social Bio starter pack - more in depth summary of what a social bio is, including an example letter that supporters can write for you
Prepare for Trial
If your case is going to trial, make sure you educate yourself on these topics
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Trial Defense Notes - Our steps on the best way for family and supporters to prepare for court
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Plea Deals - It is essential to consider all the risks and other options before taking a plea! Know exactly what each type of plea deal means, what rights you give up when you accept a plea, long term consequences of a plea, and how to appeal a conviction after a plea. (training delivered by Saleem Holbrook)
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Effective Allocution - tips on how to speak effectively for yourself in court (the time for you to address the judge at sentencing is called “allocution”)
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Empowering Juries to Do Justice - Steps all citizens can take for fairer trials
After a Trial
Next steps to take if you or a loved one has been found guilty
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Rule 521 - About bail after a guilty verdict
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Notes on Appeals - How to request that a higher court either dismisses your charges or gives you a new trial following a guilty verdict (training delivered by Owen Larrabee)
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Writing a Pardon Letter - Example guide if you want to request a pardon after serving a sentence
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Sealing Records - Expungements are a way to seal your criminal record. Even in cases resulting in a not guilty finding or those dropped from prosecution, the charges remain on your record until you seek expungement.