Monday 16 March 2015

How A Prisoner Rights Attorney In NYC Can Protect Inmates Against Abuse

By Leslie Ball


Every citizen of the United States enjoy some privileges that may never be taken away from them. This remains true whatever the circumstances, even when imprisoned. As a matter of fact, the penal system has strict rules about the protection of prisoners against abuse and about the protection of the fundamental privileges all citizens enjoy. When these privileges are not upheld or if the inmate is abused in any way, he should approach a prisoner rights attorney in NYC.

In New York, NY, there are more than 65 000 people incarcerated in state facilities and more than 14 000 in New York City jails. Many of these inmates are waiting for bail hearings or they are awaiting trial. However, all of these inmates are the focus of many organisations dedicated to making sure that they are treated humanely and according to the laws. Many lawyers also specialize in representing prisoners that have been abused is some way or another.

When a person is arrested, the arresting officer is obliged to inform the person being arrested of his privileges. If this is not done, the validity of the arrest can be contested in court. Law enforcement authorities are trained to know and respect the privileges of all citizens. If they do anything to deny these privileges, they can be disciplined or even dismissed.

One of the most fundamental rights all citizens enjoy is the privilege to refrain from answering questions from the police or to make any kind of statement under duress or without the presence of a legal representative. Legal experts agree that this is an important privilege. The laws are intricate and those under pressure and suffering from stress are less likely to consider the implications of their statements.

The constitution guarantees all citizens that they will have a lawyer present during their trial. If they cannot afford the services of a lawyer, the state appoints one for them. Unfortunately, these trial lawyers discontinue their involvement in the case as soon as the trial is over. Those sentenced to prison terms do not necessarily continue to benefit from the services of a lawyer.

There are some real reasons to be concerned about inmates in prison. There have been numerous cases of abuse in every form possible. Inmates are often subjected to abuse from other prisoners and even from the guards. Corruption and violence is an unfortunate characteristic of life behind bars. Victims often do not know how to go about getting protection or help, causing many cases to remain unreported.

Inmates should enlighten themselves about their situation, their privileges and the stipulations of the laws governing the treatment of prison inmates. If they are abused or if they are denied their privileges, they should contact a lawyer specializing in such matters. Many legal aid societies can provide advice and they can act on behalf of victims. In many cases such services are provided free of charge.

Critics often say that prisoners are enjoying far too many freedoms and privileges. The fact remains, however, that as long as the laws provide for certain codes of behaviour and for certain inalienable rights, these have to be observed. Failure to do so makes the perpetrator a criminal too.




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