Appeals of Inmate Disciplinary Actions
Whether an individual is in state or federal prison, he or she retains rights. One of those is the right to appeal an adverse disciplinary ruling resulting from an alleged violation of institutional rules. Prison life is tough, with many opportunities to get into trouble with fellow inmates and prison guards. Disciplinary matters are initially dealt with in the prison setting, without meaningful legal representation for the inmate.
Your right to appeal
After receiving an adverse disciplinary ruling from a state prison hearing officer, New Jersey prison inmates can appeal their case to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court. A successful appeal could restore privileges such as work assignments and credits. Such an appeal requires an attorney who understands both the operations of the state prison disciplinary systems and appellate procedures.
Experienced with prison disciplinary matters
The Newark, New Jersey and New York City law firm of James S. Friedman, LLC represents inmates who wish to appeal an adverse inmate disciplinary ruling to the Appellate Division of the New Jersey Superior Court. He has represented numerous inmates in disciplinary appeals, resulting in the restoration of good behavior credits, visitation privileges and desirable work assignments.
Causes of inmate discipline
Typical prison or jail disciplinary matters that can lead to an appeal include:
- Fighting
- Attempting escape
- Possessing weapons
- Attacking an officer or inmate
- Destroying security equipment or other prison property
- Refusing to obey orders
- Being in an unauthorized area
- Drug use
- Being caught with a cell phone
Inmates who have been disciplined for an alleged violation of prison rules and wish to appeal should contact a defense lawyer who understands the state prison system and disciplinary appeals process. Call the law firm of James S. Friedman, LLC at 866-484-1906 (toll free).
