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Handbook on Inmates' Legal Rights

NCJ Number
104698
Date Published
1987
Length
93 pages
Annotation
Prepared for sheriffs and jail officials, this 1987 handbook discusses general inmate rights based primarily on Federal constitutional law.
Abstract
The guide recommends that each sheriff or jail administrator issue a manual of rules and regulations which specifies inmates' rights and make sure that all personnel are familiar with these rules. It discusses types of cases inmates frequently file and how the courts deal with them. Individual chapters address specific inmate rights including personal safety and welfare, no cruel or unusual punishment, right to communicate with family and attorney, discipline consistent with due process, right to prepare legal papers, participation in programs, searches, and privacy. Also covered are juveniles in jails, liability for negligent release or supervision, and State created liberty interests. Each chapter begins with a standard and then comments on its meaning and rationale. The Bill of Rights, the 14th amendment, and over 20 references.

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