NCJ Number
174880
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 22 Issue: 12 Dated: December 1997 Pages: 4-5-29
Date Published
1997
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses frivolous inmate litigation and presents guidelines for implementing an inmate litigation support program.
Abstract
Recent data indicate that one-fourth of all civil filings in US courts are inmate petitions. Recommended actions for State officials to address frivolous inmate litigation include: (1) Ensure that an inmate grievance system is in place and certified and dedicated to meaningful resolution of valid complaints; (2) Provide attorneys for inmates, rather than access to law libraries, and supply a filtering mechanism of legal consultation that will discourage pursuit of fruitless claims; and (3) Enact legislation to provide disincentives to frivolous litigation, require exhaustion of administrative remedies (grievance procedures) and streamline State court procedures. The article discusses issues that should be addressed in State law, and policies and procedures in implementing an inmate litigation support program. Notes