Corrections

Correctional facilities from local jails to state prisons are underfunded and overcrowded.  Further, with the widespread closure of mental hospitals and other institutional facilities, the number of disabled and mentally ill inmates and inmates that require medical attention has increased dramatically.   In consideration of the current state of affairs, correctional facilities are often required to defend against inmate suits.

Our attorneys have unparalleled experience in defending prisons against claims regarding jail operations and conditions of confinement.  In addition to practical experience, our attorneys stay current with the laws affecting correctional facilities by attending educational classes and training programs.  In fact, Erlingson Banks partner Tara Johnston has undergone extensive training in corrections and has been designated a Certified Litigation Professional in corrections litigation by the Americans for Effective Law Enforcement.

We defend correctional facilities and detention centers in cases involving a broad spectrum of issues, including:

• Civil rights violations under 42 USC § 1983
• Discrimination under Americans with Disabilities Act
• Classification
• Conditions of confinement
• Excessive force
• Suicide
• Inmate assault/homicide
• Religious freedom
• Medical, mental health and deliberate indifference
• Personal injury
• Due process
• Failure to protect
• First Amendment

At Erlingson Banks, corrections defense does not begin and end with litigation.  We also use the lessons learned in litigation to offer risk management services to local jails and prisons, which includes preparing advisory opinions and policies related to a range of issues from jail operations to conditions of confinement.  We also offer operational training to the correctional facilities that we represent.  We understand the unique and challenging legal issues facing our local jails and prisons, and we aim to use our experience and specialized training to help these correctional facilities avoid litigation.