Available Cases


The Pro Bono Project offers the unique opportunity to positively impact the lives of low-income individuals in Southern Nevada. The clients listed below have been accepted by our program and are currently on our waiting list for pro bono representation. Clients have been prescreened for financial income eligibility and their cases have been selected based on a number of factors, including the merits of their case, the availability of volunteers, and the reasonableness of the client.

If you would like to take a pro bono case or request additional information, please email Michael Wendlberger (MWendlberger@lacsn.org) or Christena Georgas-Burns (cgeorgas@lacsn.org). 

 

Abuse/Neglect Cases - Children's Attorneys Project

Case Number: 2022-015072 (Pending Placement)

11-year-old and 9-year-old brothers came into DFS care due to allegations their father sexually abused their oldest sister. This case is specific to the two boys. The father was charged and has a pending case. Their mother lacks the capacity  to protect the minors from the sexual and/or emotional harm posed by father. At this time, minor children are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Permanency Planning Hearing on 09/20/2023 at 10:45 a.m. in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2022-015180 (Pending Placement)

A newborn boy came into DFS custody over concerns of substance exposure. He was regularly exposed to other individuals who were using and/or possessed illegal drugs and were under the influence. At the time of removal, both parents submitted to a hair and urine drug test and tested positive. Both parents have a long history of illicit substance abuse which impacts their ability to care and provide for the minor. At this time, this minor boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Permanency Planning Hearing on 09/05/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-000477 (Pending Placement)

A group of siblings, ages 13, 12, and 10, came into DFS custody after the father left them home alone for several days. The father has been involved in incidents of domestic violence with his live-in girlfriend in presence of the children putting their welfare at risk of harm. He was then arrested and did not make arrangements for the children. Their mother has not met her case plan goals related to her failure to protect the children from sexual abuse or made the behavior changes necessary for the children to be safe in her care. Both parents have been convicted of violations which prohibit the minors to be released to them. At this time, the children are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 06/15/2023 at 10:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2022-017591 (Pending Placement)

A newborn baby boy came into DFS custody after being born premature and experiencing respiratory distress at birth. He was conceived during an assault and the father is unknown. His mother has a history of mental health related issues and has three other children not in her care. The Department also found out that the mother continues to have a relationship with the father of her other children despite an active Protection Order Against Domestic Violence against him. At this time, this baby boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal rights and wishes as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s):  Permanency Planning Hearing on 11/07/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-001917

A newborn baby girl came into DFS custody after both she and her mother tested positive for drugs after birth. Her parents lack the ability to properly care for newborn due to drug abuse. DFS has not been able to locate any relatives at this time and the baby remains in protective custody at the hospital. At this time, this baby girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 06/13/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-002158

Three siblings, a 4-year-old and 3-year-old twins, came into DFS care after they were evicted for nonpayment of rent and were homeless, mom had no plan, and she was under the influence of an unknown substance at the time of removal. Their father is dead. At this time, these children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 07/24/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-002119

A 4-year-old girl came into DFS care due to allegations of inadequate supervision. The paternal grandmother was caring for her but, because of health issues, she is no longer able to care for the minor child.  The father is unemployed and does not have stable housing.  The mother is incarcerated. As such, this minor girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/15/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 13. 

Case Number: 2023-002168

A 4-month-old baby boy came into DFS care due to reports of physical risk and neglect by the parents. According to the report, both parents have history of drug and alcohol abuse and homelessness. There is also history of CPS involvement and other children were removed from their case and placed in foster care. The parents do not have adequate supplies or necessities and continue living in unstable situation. This 4-month-old baby boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): 157 Hearing (Mother & Father) on 07/19/2023 at 2:00 p.m. and Review Hearing on 11/28/2023 at 1:30 p.m. in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-000888

A newborn baby boy came into DFS care due to drug exposure. He has fetal alcohol spectrum disorder because of parental substance use and experienced withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal exposure. Both parents have history with substance abuse. At this time, this baby boy is in need of an attorney to represent his wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services, including educational services, are in place. Next Hearing(s): Permanency Planning Hearing on 11/21/2023 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-000935

An 8-year-old and a 4-month-old went into DFS custody after the parents had a violent altercation that ended in the mother allegedly shooting and killing the father in self-defense in the children’s presence. Their mother lacks the capacity to protect her children and puts her needs before them. As such, these two girls are in need attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 07/13/2023 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-002558

A 14-year-old boy came into DFS custody after allegations of sexual assault against him towards his younger aunts. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating the allegations. His parents were reportedly aware of the allegations but still left him home alone to watch his two minor siblings. At this time, this teenager is in need of an attorney to represent his wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Calendar Call Hearing on 07/05/2023 at 10:15 am and Adjudicatory Trial on 07/17/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 11. 

Case Number: 2023-002285

Three siblings, a 5-year-old, a 4-year-old, and a newborn baby boy, came into DFS custody over allegations of physical risk and neglect by the parents.  The parents lack the ability to care for their minor children due to their drug use. The mother admitted to using drugs while pregnant with the newborn baby boy. The father had methamphetamine and a drug paraphernalia and it was within access of the subject minors. At this time, these minor children are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Adjudicatory Trial on 07/27/2023 at 11:00 a.m. and Review Hearing on 08/23/2023 at 2:00 p.m. in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-002337

A newborn baby boy was removed by DFS at time of birth due to indications of neglect, mother’s mental health, and lack of resources. The mother is a minor in an open DFS case herself and has a past history of running away, being sex trafficking, and was believed to reside with the perpetrator. The mother is unhoused and without the necessary resources to provide the basic needs of the minor. No father has not been identified. As a result, this newborn baby boy is in need of an attorney to represent his wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/01/2023 at 3:00 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 01/30/2024 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-002697

Two girls, ages 16 and 11, come from a group of five siblings removed by DFS because of physical risk and neglect. The parents have a lengthy history of domestic violence and drug/alcohol abuse. Despite DFS’s attempts to work with the parents informally, the frequency and severity of domestic violence in the home had increased. In the last altercation, the father choked and punched the mother causing her to pass out. The father was arrested and mother was transported to hospital. At this time, these two siblings are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 09/19/2023 at 2:15 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 11/21/2023 at 2:15 pm in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-001920

A 15-year-old boy came into DFS custody due to allegations of inadequate supervision by the adoptive mother/aunt. The teenager is on probation for a conviction against a victim who also lives with the adoptive mother, so he was placed in an Eagle Quest foster home. He has successfully completed his JSO program and the terms of his probation, but the victim in his case still resides with adoptive mother and she has not made other long-term arrangements for minor and he has no home to return to once his juvenile court case comes to a closing. At this time, this young boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/01/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-002398

Three siblings, ages 17, 16, and 10, came into DFS custody over allegation of sexual assault of one of the father’s to the 16-year old girl. The sexual assault began when she was 11 years old and continued until recently reported. She and the older sibling disclosed the abuse to mother and she failed to protect the victim, but continued to allow the father to remain in the house and have unsupervised access to the children. There are three different fathers to the children and the perpetrator is the only one involved. The other two fathers have no contact and do not provide any support for their kids. These siblings are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/02/2023 at 10:45 a.m. and Permanency Planning Hearing on 02/07/2024 at 10:45 a.m. in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-002138

A newborn baby boy came into the custody of DFS after both him and mother tested positive for drugs at birth. The mother has an on-going open case with DFS for other two siblings; both siblings have remained in protective custody since removal in 2021. The mother has not made any improvements or has completed her case plan in that case. The named father has not established paternity of minor. This infant boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/09/2023 at 2:00 pm in Courtroom 9. 

Case Number: 2023-002881(Pending Placement)

6-year old twins came into DFS custody due to allegations of inadequate shelter, neglect, lack of resources and drug abuse. The parents lack the ability to provide minor children with the necessary resources for their well being.  These minor children are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/09/2023 at 10:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-003094

A 1-year old girl was removed by DFS after a report that the father attacked one of the older siblings, causing injury. The parents have a history of alcohol abuse and using illegal prescription drugs. There are also several incidents of domestic violence against mother and older siblings. The mother lacks the capacity to protect her infant daughter from her father’s abuse and continues to stay with him despite of the violence.  At this time, this infant girl is in need of an attorney to represent her wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Status Check (In-Home Safety Home Progress) on 06/15/2023 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-002962

An infant boy came into DFS custody due to allegations of threat of harm, improper supervision, and lack of resources. The mother has been residing with her mother because she is homeless and lacking resources. The mother and the grandmother have a contentious relationship, which has caused several incidents of violence between the two. During the last incident, the mother was holding the baby boy while having a physical altercation with grandmother. She was arrested and there were no other responsible adults to care for minor. The father does not have any contact with the boy nor provides any financial support. At this time, minor is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place to protect her from any harm. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 09/19/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-003346 (Pending Placement)

A 1-year-old girl came into DFS custody after paramedics responded to a call that she was exhibiting symptoms of fentanyl exposure. It was later determined that the child may have ingested fentanyl or a similar strong opioid and was subsequently hospitalized. There is also history of domestic violence between the parents that has resulted in putting the minor in danger. At this time, minor is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s) Review Hearing on 09/13/2023 at 2:00 p.m. in Courtroom 9.

Case Number: 2023-001397

2-year old boy was removed by DFS due to environmental neglect and parental drug use. The parents were found squatting in a home that had no working utilities and living conditions were unbearable.  There were safety hazards concerns including medication bottles and drug paraphernalia accessible to minor.  A gun was also found in the property, for which, the father was arrested for having.  The parents have an extensive history of illegal substances; they also lack stable housing and income to provide for the basic needs of the child.  At this time, minor is in need of an attorney to represent his wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next hearing(s): Review Hearing on 07/03/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-001589

A 10-year-old girl and her 8-year-old brother came into DFS custody due to ongoing domestic violence within the household. The mother was arrested and charged with Battery Domestic Violence. Neither father of the two children are involved and both have failed to provide financial or any other kind of support. At this time, these two siblings are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 06/06/2023 at 11:00 am and Review Hearing on 08/08/2023 at 3:00 am in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-002019

A 10-year-old boy came into DFS custody over after his adoptive mother refused to allow the boy back into her home and did not make alternate arrangements after an incident. The boy suffers has been diagnosed with ADHD and ODD. He sees a psychiatrist regularly and is taking medication. On a recent incident, he attacked his adoptive mother and the police were called. He was taken to UMC hospital. Upon release, adoptive mother indicated she is pregnant and she will not put her family in danger by allowing him to return to her care. At this time, this child is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/01/2023 at 3:00 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 01/30/2024 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 8. 

Case Number: 2023-002836

Two siblings, 8-year old boy and 5-year old girl came into DFS due to neglect, proper care, and circumstances that put threatened their welfare.  The father was involved in incidents of domestic violence with a person regularly found in the home.  The father was arrested for Battery Domestic Violence and is pending criminal charges in Las Vegas Justice Court.  The minor children reported witnessing domestic violence in the home.  As such, the children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Adjudicatory Trial on 07/13/02023 at 11:00 a.m. in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2022-004984 (Pending Placement)

A sibling group of four children ages,  8-year-old, 5-year-old, 3-year-old, and 2-year-old came into DFS care in March 2022 because of their mothers history of substance abuse, domestic violence, and homelessness. There are three additional siblings but they have different desires and therefore have a separate attorney. All of the kids, with the exception of the youngest, were previously removed and reunified with their mother. The mother was in treatment at Westcare but checked herself out and relocated to Utah. The 3-year-old father is in Clark County Detention Center and the 8-year-old father lives in California and is on parole for a criminal conviction against a child there. He has shown some interest in the case but has not demonstrated change to the satisfaction of DFS. The father of the 5-year-old and the 2-year-old is homeless and DFS has been unable to locate him. At this time, the children are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Motion to Withdraw/Confirmation of Counsel on 05/22/2023 at 11:30 a.m.; Review Hearing on 06/27/2023 at 3:00 p.m. and Permanency Planning Hearing on 10/24/2023 at 2:30 p.m. in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-004510

A newborn baby girl came into DFS custody due to parental drug use and domestic violence.  Both parents have exposed infant to drugs and alcohol.  The mother tested positive for drugs on or about minor’s birth.  It has also been reported that minor has been exposed to other individuals who were using or possessed illegal drugs while in the home.  Additionally, the parents has history of domestic violence.  The mother was recently arrested for Battery Domestic Violence against the father.  They lack the resources to provide minor with the basic needs.  As such, this infant is in need of an attorney to represent her wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Adjudicatory Trial on 08/24/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 13. 

Case Number: 2023-003790

A newborn baby boy came into DFS care due to parental drug use.  The parents have an open petition as to another child in which, they have not successfully completed case plan services in which included addressing their substance abuse issues, domestic violence, and mental health issues.  Infant baby was exposed to drugs uterus and the mother admitted to using THC while pregnant.  The parents lack sable housing and income to provide for the basic needs of the child.  At this time, this infant boy is in need of an attorney to represent his wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Status Check Hearing (Relinquishment) on 06/15/2023 at 3:30 p.m. and Review Hearing on 09/14/2023 at 3:30 p.m. in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-004783

This is a case involving a group of five siblings.  This case is particularly to the 10-year old, 9-year old and 2-year old siblings.  The father has a history of physically abusing the children.  The report indicates that he has abused one of the older kids by hitting her with a belt, punching her and making her stand in the corner for over hours as punishment.  The parents have also been involved in several incidents of domestic violence in the presence of the children.  The father lacks impulse control and has history of engagement in domestic violence as the perpetrator.  The mother lacks the ability to protect the children from the father’s violence by continuing to expose them.  At this time, these two girls are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s):  Calendar Call/Disposition Hearing on 06/20/2023 at 10:30 am and Adjudicatory Trial on 07/07/2023 at 9:30 am in Courtroom 11. 

Case Number: 2023-004767

This is a case involving a group of five siblings.  This case is particularly to the 15-year old and 14-year old girls.  The father has a history of abusing the children.  The report indicates that he has hit the 15-year old with a belt, punched her, and made her stand in the corner for over hours as punishment.  The parents have also been involved in several incidents of domestic violence in the presence of the children.  The father lacks impulse control and has history of engagement in domestic violence as the perpetrator.  The mother lacks the ability to protect the children from the father’s violence by continuing to expose them.  At this time, these two girls are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s):  Disposition Hearing on 06/13/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 11. 

Case Number: 2023-004716

A sibling group of three girls ages 16-year old, 14-year old and a newborn baby came into DFS custody after the father to one of the girl’s engaged in a drug deal with the three minor girls in the car.  Also, in the car was boy-sibling, who is not a subject of this petition.  During the transaction, the minor boy was shot resulting in a fracture to his leg.  The mother and father coached minors what to say to authorities in order to protect the father from getting in trouble for dealing drugs.  The mother has engaged in domestic violence acts against two of the fathers of the children.  She was convicted for one of the incidents.  She also lacks the capacity to protect the minor and continues exposing them to situations which create impending dangers.  These minor girls are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition/Plea Hearing on 06/06/2023 at 9:30 am in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-004699

Two siblings, 13-year old girl and 11-year old boy came into DFS custody due to physical risk.  The parents were involved in a domestic violence incident where the mother attacked the father with a butcher knife.  The parents have a history of domestic violence against each other, including father striking mother.  The father was arrested for violating a TPO from District Court.  Both parents were incarcerated and unable to discharge their responsibilities to and for the children.  At this time, these two siblings are in need of an attorney to represent their wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 06/06/2023 at 10:00 am in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-002505

A 6-year old boy was removed by DFS due to unsafe environment where narcotic were used, and narcotics paraphernalia was within access of minor boy.  The father admitted to leaving minor alone in a hotel room while he partied.  The minor boy was found alone in the hotel room which was messy and drugs were found.  The father was arrested and charged with possession of controlled substances, child abuse/neglect and probation violation. The mother has a substantial history of mental health instability which continues to make her an inappropriate care provider for minor.  The mother acts our violently against family members and has been previously arrested numerous times in Nye County for domestic violence.  At this time, this boy is in need of of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/01/2023 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-002878

A newborn baby girl was removed by DFS due to the mother being under the influence of illegal drugs and alcohol, which compromised her ability to care for minor.  The mother was placed on a Legal 2000 hold as she was high on methamphetamines and having a mental health episode.  While in the hospital, the mother gave birth to baby girl.  The mother tested positive for methamphetamines and marijuana in her urine.  The mother reported she is homeless and does not want any assistance from DFS.  Her parental rights were involuntarily terminated by Court order as to other minor. The putative father has not established paternity and his whereabouts are unknown.  At this time, this infant girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Motion (State’s Request to Change Child’s Name) on 08/02/2023 at 1:30 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 11/28/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-003907

A 4-month old baby boy came into DFS custody due to the mother being in protective custody herself.  The father is currently residing with adults who are not appropriate at this time.  Both parents are teen parents without a stable adult in their life to help them support and raise their child.  The mother has been diagnosed with FAS and there are concerns she may have autism and or post-partum depression.  The parent’s maturity level due to their young age and emotional stability play a role in their ability to provide care for their son.  They are both unable to financially support themselves or their baby and lack all the resources.  At this time, this infant boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights are to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Termination of Parental Rights Trial on 07/17/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-005362

A-newborn baby boy was removed by DFS due to parent’s having an on-going case as to their other four minor children due to  substance abuse exposure, medical neglect, and educational neglect.  The Department reported that parents are not working on their case plan, the father still has the 157 presumption to overcome, both parents have failed to continue with therapies and services aligned for the safety return of their other children.  Baby boy is placed in a foster home at this time.  As such, this newborn boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 06/13/2023 at 10:00 am in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-002902

A group of siblings, ages 4-year old, 1-year old and 6-month old came into DFS custody due to allegations of physical risk and inadequate supervision. The parents have history of domestic violence, during the last incident, the father hit mother with a closed fist striking her in the eye, while brandishing a gun. The parents wrestled over the gun, which ultimately discharged resulting in father sustaining a gunshot to his leg thigh. The children were in the immediate vicinity during the altercation. The mother continues to remain in a relationship with the father, putting the children at risk of harm. The parents lack stable housing and income to provide for the basic needs of the children. At this time, these minor children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 08/22/2023 at 3:30 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-004802

A group of three siblings ages, 4-year old boy, 3-year old boy, and 2-year old girl came were removed by DFS due to neglect, improper care, lack of shelter and other care necessary for their well-being.  The mother lacks safe and stable housing, income and employment to provide for the basic needs of the children.  Mother is unemployed, she is transient and has a history of homelessness.  The Department previously assisted mother with obtaining housing, which she did not maintain.  The parents have a lengthy history of domestic violence and the father has issues with drugs. An in-home safely plan could not be implemented due to the family’s homelessness.  The natural mother was incarcerated and the father is in a virtual rehabilitation center.  At this time, these children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s):  Disposition Hearing on 06/06/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-005125

Two sibling boys ages 3-year old and 10-month old came into DFS custody due to inadequate supervision and physical risk of the minor children.  There have been several reports that mother calls family members while intoxicated asking them for minor’s to be picked up.  The mother’s substance abuse is unmanageable and unpredictable.  The father of the children is currently incarcerated due to Battery Domestic Violence.  The children are extremely vulnerable due to their ages and developmental capacities.  There is no protective caregiver in the home.  At this time, these minor boys are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s):  Plea Hearing on 06/06/2023 at 9:45 am in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-005120

2-year old twin siblings came into DFS custody due to reports of parental drug use, untreated mental health issues and domestic violence. The parents drug use compromise their ability to care for the children and provide them with basic care. It has been reported that when incidents of domestic violence have occurred, the parents were under the influence. Additionally, the mother experiences symptoms of mental health conditions, which are inadequately treated and she has not sought assistance.  The parents also lack safe and stable housing to provide for the basic needs of the children.  All these circumstances place the minor children in an unsafe environment. At this time, these infant twins are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Plea Hearing on 06/06/2023 at 9:45 am in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-005591

A 7-year old boy was removed by DFS after his father left him in the care of his mother, who previously had her children removed from her and has an open permanency case with the Department regarding her own substance abuse issues, mental instability, and homelessness.  When this boy was removed from his mother, he was placed with the father, as he was the non-offending parent. The parents were involved in a physical altercation and the father left and his whereabouts are unknown, the Department requested a diligent search in effort to locate father.  Minor was taken into protective custody as there was no appropriate caregiver available to care for him and met his basic needs.  The mother has been deemed unsafe given she has not completed her case plan to demonstrate behavioral changes and has not met her conditions for return.  At this time, this minor boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Adjudicatory Trial on 08/24/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 13. 

Case Number: 2023-003771

A newborn baby girl came was removed by DFS due to parental drug use. The mother has a history of drug use involving heroin and methamphetamine.  She tested positive for opiates at the time of the baby’s birth. Mother admitted to smoking heroin daily and using drugs during her pregnancy.  The mother is an relationship and unfortunately, her girlfriend also has a history of drug use involving heroin and methamphetamine.  Minor is identified as being affected by parental substance use and having withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure. There is also lack of resources, neither parent is able to provide safe and stable housing, income or employment to provide for the basic needs of minor.  At this time, this newborn girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 09/26/2023 at 2:15 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 03/12/2024 at 2:15 pm in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-004462

A-newborn baby girl came into DFS custody due to the parent’s health mental disorders.  Both parents have history with the Department as child victims and both have serious and severe mental health issues which are not being treated or managed.  There are also incidents of domestic violence where the father has strangled and hit the mom with a bat and chain.  It is also reported that the father traffics this 17-year old mother.  The mother lacks the protective capacity to protect her newborn baby by returning to the relationship despite the fact that he traffics and physically abuses her.  At this time, this this newborn girl is in need of an attorney to represent her wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, and visitation and to ensure appropriate services  are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing (Mother) on 06/20/2023 at 1:30 pm and on 06/27/2023 at 10:00 am (Father) in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-004972

A-newborn baby boy was removed by DFS due to the parent’s use of illegal drugs and alcohol, mental health and domestic violence.  There are reports that the parent’s drug use has put this newborn boy in danger as they frequently leave him in the care of others due to their substance abuse or lack of resources.  The mother has untreated mental health issues, she has been hospitalized due to concerns of her mental health and she requires ongoing treatment.  Both parents have been involved in incidents of domestic violence in the presence of the minor.  Mother has remained in the relationship despite the ongoing violence despite the ongoing domestic violence.  The parents lack housing, income and employment to provide for the basic needs of the baby.  At this time, this newborn baby boy is in need of an attorney to represent his wishes and legal rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 06/28/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-005476

A 5-year old girl was removed by DFS along with her brother, who has a separate case due to parental drug use and hazardous living conditions.  The mother has a history of drug use.  When asked by the Department, the mother denied a history of drug use, denied current drug use, and refused to submit to a drug test to rule out drug use.  The parents refused the Department access to their home without a warrant.  After a warrant was obtained, they accessed the home, the Department noticed the house conditions of the house were found to be unsafe.  The parents drug use and lack of protective capacity put this minor in harm.  At this time, this minor girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Calendar Call 06/12/2023 at 10:30 am and Adjudicatory Trial on 06/20/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-005371

An 8-year old girl came into DFS care after impending danger threats to the minor were identified.  The mother has a history with the Department resulting in the removal of her two older children.  The mother has a history of substance abuse and lacks the resources to provide this minor with the basic needs.  The Department has also reported that minor poses a risk of sexual harm.  The mother’s boyfriend, who is normally found in the home was convicted of sexual abuse to a minor.  He is a Tier One registered sex offender, and the mother has allowed him to be around minor.  The named father has not established paternity and has had no contact with minor.  It has also been reported that he has a history of domestic violence.  This minor girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Plea Hearing on 06/07/2023 at 9:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2022-008172

A group of three-siblings ages, 5, 4, and 3 year old came into DFS custody in 2019 along with their four siblings due to their mother’s lack of  housing, income, or resources, untreated mental health disorders, and exhibiting neglectful and harmful parenting behaviors. This case has a long torrid history of trying to get the mother the services and assistance needed to determine whether she could safely parent and consistently provide for the kids.  Most recently in 2022, mom was having unsupervised visits in the community and in her home, and was given the green light for in-home overnight visits. However the first weekend of overnight visits she had an unsafe male paramour in the home with the kids and allegedly told the kids to keep it a secret. She also was reportedly unable to manage the kids’ behaviors and was verbally abusive to them. DFS decided to move forward with their Motion to Terminate Parental Rights. At this time, these three minor children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 06/27/2023 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-003511

A newborn baby boy came into DFS custody in 2019 along with his five siblings due to their mother’s lack of  housing, income, or resources, untreated mental health disorders, and exhibiting neglectful and harmful parenting behaviors. This case has a long torrid history of trying to get the mother the services and assistance needed to determine whether she could safely parent and consistently provide for the kids.  Most recently in 2022, mom was having unsupervised visits in the community and in her home, and was given the green light for in-home overnight visits. However the first weekend of overnight visits she had an unsafe male paramour in the home with the kids and allegedly told the kids to keep it a secret. She also was reportedly unable to manage the kids’ behaviors and was verbally abusive to them. DFS decided to move forward with their Motion to Terminate Parental Rights. At this time, this newborn baby boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement, visitation, and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 06/29/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 12.

Appeals

Case Number: 2023-004536 (Pending Placement)

A mother is attempting to appeal a district court order denying a motion to relocate with minor children. The mother was awarded sole physical custody of the minor children and the parties share joint legal custody. The mother is wanting to relocate with the minor children in attempt to provide a better life for her family, but the motion was denied at the hearing. The district court’s order state she did not lay out the best interest factors and that she failed to establish cause on the best interests and the advantage for moving. Therefore, this client is in need of an attorney to represent her in this appeal. Next Hearing(s): Notice of Appearance due 06/20/2023. 

Case Number: 2023-004644

A man is in need of an attorney to represent him in an appellate matter involving the mother of his children appealing a district court order denying a motion to relocate with minor children. The mother was awarded sole physical custody of the minor children and the parties share joint legal custody. The mother is wanting to relocate with the minor children, but the motion was denied at the hearing. The district court’s order does not lay out he best interest factors and stated that the appellant failed to establish cause on the best interests and actual advantage factors. Next Hearing(s): Notice of Appearance due 06/20/2023. 

Case Number: 2023-004733

A mother is in need of an attorney to represent her as the appellant in attempt to modify child support order. The appellant is currently job searching for employment, close to becoming homeless, and hoping to relocate with the child. She is in need of more child support from the father and has stated she believes his income has increased. The hearing master recommended a denial of the mothers motion for custody modification and the mother filed an objection which is supported by the Family Support Division. The district court denied the objection and the motion. Next Hearing(s): Notice of Appearance due on 6/23/2023.

Case Number: 2023-004737

A father is in need of an attorney to represent him as the respondent in this appellate matter as the children’s mother is attempting to modify their child support order. The appellant is currently job searching for employment, close to becoming homeless, and wanting to relocate with the child. She is in need of more child support from the father and has stated she believes his income has increased. The hearing master recommended a denial of the mothers motion for custody modification for numerous reasons and the mother filed an objection. The district court denied the objection and the affirmed the recommendation of the hearing master to deny the motion to modify the custody order. Next Hearing(s): Notice of Appearance due on 6/23/2023.

Case Number: 2023-004839 (Urgent)

A woman needs an attorney to help her challenge an order for original custody determination and amending the custody award. The parties were never married and share one minor child. The opposing party was awarded sole legal and physical custody after he obtained a default against our client. The district court granted client’s motion to set aside that order based on respondent’s assertion that she was not aware of the custody action even though she was in contact with opposing party. After an evidentiary hearing, the district court granted the parties joint legal custody with primary physical custody to respondent. The court credited respondent’s allegations of domestic violence against the opposing party and determined that client’s willful disappearance with the child was excused. The opposing party appeals, challenging both the order to set aside the original custody determination and the amended custody award. Next Hearing(s): Notice of Appearance due on 6/27/2023.

Case Number: 2023-006282 (URGENT)

Three siblings, a 5 year-old, 4 year-old, and 2 year-old are in a foster home that seeks to adopt them. The two oldest children verbalized that they want to be adopted. Their mother relinquished parental rights after entering into an open adoption agreement with the foster parents. DFS filed a Motion to Terminate the Parental Rights of the father, the appellant, after he physically abused the two older children. Appellant contested this requested relief. The District Court granted the Motion and terminated his parental rights as to the minor children. Appellant now appeals this decision. At this time, the siblings are in need of an attorney to represent them on this appellant matter. Next Hearing(s): Opening Brief due 6/22/2023.

Domestic Violence

Case Number: 2023-001452 (Pending Placement)

A woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce from her husband of over forty years. They are currently still living together, but have been separated for around ten years. The client has suffered from domestic abuse the entirety of their relationship and she is still enduring his abuse every month that they are married. The client would like to keep the car, continue living in the apartment,  and keep the furniture. She is hoping for spousal support and would like to consult with an attorney regarding this request. This client is Spanish speaking and an interpreter is available upon request. Next Hearing(s): No Case Has Been Filed. 

Case Number: 2023-003421

A woman is in need of attorney assistance with obtaining a divorce from her husband. The client and opposing party have been in an abusive cycle for many years and share two children between them. The client has been the subject of a lot of physical and verbal abuse including being dragged, punched in the head, and constantly yelled at. There have been multiple TPOs and the client is the victim of a domestic violence situation that occurred in 2020 which resulted in the other parties arrest.  She now wants to escape this violent cycle. Next Hearing(s): No case filed. 

Case Number: 2023-000676 (Pending Placement)

A woman is in need of an attorney to help her obtain a divorce from her abusive husband. The two share a minor child and she would like sole custody. There is a long history of domestic violence including two TPOs. The opposing party was arrested for a domestic violence dispute back in 2021 and there have been multiple abusive incidents including him choking the client, pushing her down, and even running over her foot. The opposing party had previously left the state but has returned and there are now concerns for his mental health. Next Hearing(s): No case has been filed. 

Case Number: 2023-002947

A woman is wanting to file for divorce after suffering through years of physical, verbal, and sexual abuse from her partner.  The client has moved herself and the children out of the home and is staying with a family member. They share two young children and the client would be requesting physical custody and joint legal custody. The client is wanting to request spousal support and to keep the vehicle she currently has in her possession. This woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce. Next Hearing(s): No Case Has Been Filed. 

Family Law (Divorce/Custody)

Case Number: 2023-001452 (Pending Placement)

A woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce from her husband of over forty years. They are currently still living together, but have been separated for around ten years. The client has suffered from domestic abuse the entirety of their relationship and she is still enduring his abuse every month that they are married. The client would like to keep the car, continue living in the apartment,  and keep the furniture. She is hoping for spousal support and would like to consult with an attorney regarding this request. This client is Spanish speaking and an interpreter is available upon request. Next Hearing(s): No Case Has Been Filed. 

Case Number: 2023-002880

A woman in her 30s is seeking an attorney to help her divorce her abusive husband and get custody of her 7-month-old child. The two were married in 2020 and separated in 2022. There is currently a TPO against the opposing party and a warrant for his arrest from the last DV incident in Las Vegas. Next Deadline(s): No case filed. 

Case Number: 2023-003097

After her husband had an affair, a woman is seeking assistance with a divorce. They have two children, a 16-year-old and a 13-year-old. She would like joint/primary custody and child support. They have debt in common she would like him to assume and she would like spousal support. Next Deadline(s): No case filed. 

Case Number: 2023-002939 (Pending Placement)

A woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce from her husband of five years. The client is currently living in the home after the other party left because of differences between them. She bought the house prior to marriage and her name is on the mortgage and title. They have no children or shared property to divide. Next Hearing(s): No case has been filed. 

Case Number: 2023-003421

A woman is in need of attorney assistance with obtaining a divorce from her husband. The client and opposing party have been in an abusive cycle for many years and share two children between them. The client has been the subject of a lot of physical and verbal abuse including being dragged, punched in the head, and constantly yelled at. There have been multiple TPOs and the client is the victim of a domestic violence situation that occurred in 2020 which resulted in the other parties arrest.  She now wants to escape this violent cycle. Next Hearing(s): No case filed. 

Case Number: 2023-000975 (Urgent)

A client is in need of an attorney to assist him with filing a custody motion to enforce/show cause. The client and the children’s mother have a joint custody order from 2017. The opposing party is not following the order, keeping children from seeing the client and also not picking up the children at the proper times. Additionally, the client believes the opposing party is incorrectly claiming the children on her income taxes and would like the issue addressed in court. Next Hearing(s): Case Management Conference on 6/20/23 at 10:00 am in Dept R.

Case Number: 2023-000676 (Pending Placement)

A woman is in need of an attorney to help her obtain a divorce from her abusive husband. The two share a minor child and she would like sole custody. There is a long history of domestic violence including two TPOs. The opposing party was arrested for a domestic violence dispute back in 2021 and there have been multiple abusive incidents including him choking the client, pushing her down, and even running over her foot. The opposing party had previously left the state but has returned and there are now concerns for his mental health. Next Hearing(s): No case has been filed. 

Case Number: 2023-002947

A woman is wanting to file for divorce after suffering through years of physical, verbal, and sexual abuse from her partner.  The client has moved herself and the children out of the home and is staying with a family member. They share two young children and the client would be requesting physical custody and joint legal custody. The client is wanting to request spousal support and to keep the vehicle she currently has in her possession. This woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce. Next Hearing(s): No Case Has Been Filed. 

Federal Pro Bono Program

Case Number: 2022-011343 (Urgent)

Kenneth, an inmate at Northern Nevada Correctional Center, suffered a series of strokes while incarcerated at Nevada Department of Corrections and alleges that he has been denied pain management and adequate follow-up care. He also alleges he smelled alcohol when he approached the doctor inside the facility and the doctor then threatened him. He filed a grievance and claimed retribution for accusations against the doctor for drinking at work. He filed a federal civil rights suit and seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, and injunctive relief. He would like an attorney to assist him with his case through the Federal Pro Bono Program.

Case Number: 2022-011591

Carlos, an inmate at Lovelock Correctional Center filed a civil rights complaint seeking to obtain declaratory, injunctive and monetary relief to redress the injuries and damages allegedly caused by NDOC employees. Plaintiff claims he was improperly designated a Sureno gang member at High Desert State Prison (HDSP) and claims he is not affiliated with any gang, but has received threats due to his denial of being a member of the Sureno gang. He filed an informal grievance for improper designation, but was denied an STG due process hearing. He was placed on administrative segregation a week later. While he was housed in administrative segregation, he was allowed to access the yard for outdoor exercise only in a 10 ft x10 ft cage for 5-7 hour stretches. The temperatures often exceeded 100 degrees, but the cages didn’t have any shade or water fountains. The cages also lacked urinals and toilets and prisoners were not provided bathroom breaks. As a result, the cages were “encrusted with human feces and urine.” He was required to eat lunch in the cage. The cages were placed side-by-side, which allowed gang members to verbally harass him. He eventually declined yard time because of these conditions. He also did not have access to tier time, the gym, the library, jobs, or programs. He was permitted to shower once every three days. He was permitted only two phone calls and one hour-long, no-contact visit per week. He was permitted to spend only $50 per week in the canteen and limited to hygiene, writing, and correspondence items. He was not permitted to participate in the food and clothing package programs. He also endured 24-hour lockdowns because gang members kept threatening his life. He is seeking representation through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No deadlines at this time.

Case Number: 2022-015212 (Pending Placement)

Because of a serious motorcycle accident, Toney has a severe head injury that causes seizures. He was on an effective plan of care, including a regular medication, that proved to control seizures 97% of the time. In 2007, he was then diagnosed with a fungal infection in his left wrist that resulted in five surgeries and daily medication. He went into custody in 2016 and is currently at High Desert State Prison. He alleges that, in 2017, the defendants stopped administering the required medication for his seizures despite the medication’s common use in the medical field for seizures and the number of seizures he has had since has increased. He alleges they added fraudulent entries in his medical records to justify stopping the medication. He also alleges that, upon re-entry to the NDOC system in 2019, his left wrist brace, seizure medication, and anti-fungal medication were confiscated despite all being medically necessary. He also states he was cuffed on his left wrist without his brace, causing injury to his wrist. He eventually got a replacement brace after filing a grievance and other requests and he got his seizure medication back only after they witnessed a severe seizure. He got his anti-fungal medication back only after his wrist became re-infected. He filed a 1983 civil rights suit alleging 1st, 8th, and 14th amendment violations. He is in need of an attorney to represent him through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): Discovery due by 7/20/2023. Motions due by 9/19/2023. Proposed Joint Pretrial Order due by 10/19/2023. 

Case Number: 2022-015805 (Urgent)

An inmate currently incarcerated at High Desert State Prison (HDSP) was allegedly assaulted and stabbed in his single-man cell while he was incarcerated at Ely State Prison in March 2018. He alleges prison gang members due to his unwillingness to associate with a prison gang. In addition, in September 2019, he broke both legs and ankles when he jumped over a high fence in an attempted escape from HDSP. He then underwent surgery and received braces and a wheelchair. After being returned to HDSP following surgery, he was placed on suicide watch. The cell where he was housed had excrement and urine stains and smelled strongly of disinfectant spray. The light was left on in his cell at night not allowing him adequate sleep. He reports he was left on the floor overnight after falling from his bed while attempting to get into his wheelchair. He claims he was denied adequate medical care and pain relief. When he filed medical grievances, he alleges they were ignored or denied because English is his second language and the grievances were not clearly written in English. He is claiming loss of property, placement in segregation without cause, wrongful transfer of from his prison account to allegedly pay fines associated with his attempted escape, lack of medical attention, and lack of accommodations for providing food because they placed his tray of food where he could not access it while in his wheelchair. As a result, he filed a 1983 civil rights law suit and is seeking monetary damages and injunctive relief. He would like representation through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): Status Conference 4/4/2023 at 8:30 a.m. via videoconference. 

Case Number: 2022-017132 (Urgent)

An inmate at Ely State Prison is suing multiple Defendants for events that took place while he was incarcerated at Ely State Prison. As of November 2021, he reports he resided in strict solitary isolation. Because of his placement in administrative segregation, he was subject to restrictions on daily activities, jobs, showering time, visitation, phone usage, and commissary options. These conditions caused him to suffer mental anguish, and he attempted suicide on several occasions. He claims he can no longer multitask or hold a conversation for longer than forty-five minutes and he experiences “quick mood displacement,” crying often. During the week of November 20, 2021, client informed prison personnel that he needed yard time. Then, during the week of December 2, 2021, client again asked several times for yard rights. Despite his requests, he did not receive an adequate level of 1-hour exercise yard daily. He submitted kites and grievances about these issues. He reports that he asked to have a hearing on his placement in solitary confinement. He filed a 1983 case alleging a 14th amendment due process claim, 8th amendment conditions-of-confinement claim, and an 8th amendment deliberate indifference to his mental health needs claim. He  is in fear of retribution and believes his life is in imminent danger due to consistent harassment and threats. He is seeking monetary and injunctive relief. He would like representation through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No upcoming deadlines. 

Case Number: 2023-000471 (Pending Placement)

Plaintiff sues multiple defendants seeking monetary and injunctive relief for events that took place while he was being transferred from Southern Desert Correctional Center to Northern Nevada Correctional Center. Prior to 2021, Plaintiff suffered a series of strokes that left him paralyzed on his right side. Although he subsequently regained minimal function of his right side, he continues to suffer from severe pain in his legs, knees, and ankles, muscle spasms, and dysfunction in his left shoulder, wrists, knees, feet, and ankles. As a result, Plaintiff has limited mobility and he requires a walker to move around. On March 15, 2021, Plaintiff was scheduled to be transported from one facility to another. In order to transport him, correctional officers allegedly placed him in ankle and waist restraints and told him to step up into the van, which was two-and-a-half feet off the ground. Plaintiff, who was using a walker at the time, asked for an ADA van/vehicle but his request was allegedly ignored. Instead, he claims they violently tossed, slammed, and pushed him into the van, causing him to experience pain and injury to his shoulders, wrist, hip, neck, leg, and knees. He experienced pain throughout the 5 hour trip and extending beyond that. As a result, Plaintiff sues multiple defendants seeking monetary and injunctive relief and is in need of an attorney through the Federal Pro Bono Program to assist him with his lawsuit. Next Deadline(s): 120-Day Report due 5/12/2023.

Case Number: 2023-003156

An inmate of Northern Nevada Correctional Center filed a 1983 case seeking injunctive relief to change the policy that denies inmates preventative and maintenance dental care. He is seeking an attorney through the Federal Pro Bono Program to represent him in his trial only.

Case Number: 2023-003161

Charles, an inmate at Northern Nevada Correctional Center, is partially paralyzed on his left side due to alleged lack of medical treatment while in prison. He went into custody in 1999 and started complaining of back pain in 2000. He was transferred multiple times starting in 2006 to give him access to medical resources and classified as a low tier inmate. Despite this, he alleges he did not receive any real treatment or diagnostics for his pain until 2008 when he had an x-ray. The x-ray confirmed spinal cord issues and the doctor recommended an MRI. No MRI was done for years and, in June 2015, he filed an emergency grievance. It was not until seeing another doctor at a new facility in 2016 that he then had an MRI. This MRI confirmed the issues identified in 2008 and the doctor recommended surgery. He did not receive surgery despite filing multiple grievances and his pain persisted. In 2018, he was re-assigned to an upper tier cell despite his file noting the low tier requirement for medical reasons. He then fell while going up the stairs to his cell. He was taken to a medical center and had emergency surgery to relieve pressure from his spinal cord. The doctor advised he may never have full mobility again due to the continued pressure on his nerves for years. As a result, he filed an 8th Amendment deliberate indifference to serious medical needs claim and unsafe prison conditions. He is seeking an attorney through the Federal Pro Bono Program.

Case Number: 2023-003656

Richard, an inmate at Southern Desert Correctional Center, is pursuing punitive damages for injuries sustained during an encounter with law enforcement. He was shot four times with a non-lethal weapon in the arm, chest, and hand after resisting officers, disobeyed their commands, and arming himself with a metal baseball bat. After being shot with beanbags, he smashed the door of a convenience store and attempted to enter the store. He was subsequently shot once in the leg with live ammo by a second officer. He is requesting $500,000 in damages that he alleges were a result of excessive force. The court stayed the case for 60 days on 3/23/23 pending appointment of counsel through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Hearing(s): Status Conference on 5/23/23 at 9:30 am via videoconference.

Case Number: 2023-003910

A former inmate filed a 1983 lawsuit alleging a violation of the 1st amendment and 8th amendment. He alleges NDOC employees violated the 1st amendment because his Quran was removed without legitimate reason. He alleges NDOC case workers violated the 8th amendment because they conspired to sexually assault him, failed to report or respond to his claim he was sexually assaulted, and then threatened further sexual assault. He also alleges they refused to forward his emergency grievances and threatened to file false disciplinary charges against him. He is in need of an attorney to assist him in his case through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No upcoming deadlines. 

Case Number: 2023-003912

A veteran with service-related disabilities is seeking injunctive relief and monetary damages for negligence and breach of contract, equitable relief, attorney’s fees, litigation expenses and costs for the violation of the ADA. He has used his service animal for 7 years in public, including on airline flights, without issue. In May 2021, he and his service animal were at a commercial property he had frequented multiple times. He alleges he was asked to leave because they claimed his trained service animal “nipped” a female employee, which he denies. He was then approached by another employee on his way out of the specific area and told the story was fabricated to get him to leave. The person gave him his card and told him to contact him if he had any issues. The next day, he called to report the incident to the establishment’s security office and was asked to come in person to discuss the situation. He went in and they demanded he provide proof his dog was a service animal. He then spoke to the Security Investigator and asked that the security footage be reviewed, but he believes it was never reviewed and his previous counsel believes it may have been impermissibly destroyed. He is seeking an attorney to assist him in this matter through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No upcoming deadlines.

Case Number: 2023-003678

Two former members of a local laborers union allege they were wrongfully terminated from their union membership because of a breach of fiduciary duty by a union officer, which caused loss of employment opportunities, benefits, and access to their pension and retirement savings. They filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and, while the complaint was pending, the union filed a state court case against the two former members without following the grievance process. The former members allege this was in retaliation for filing the NLRB complaint. The court dismissed the Amended Complaint without prejudice and gave the plaintiffs leave to file another amended complaint. The plaintiffs are seeking assistance with the federal court claim through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Hearing(s): Status Conference on 6/15/23 at 1:00 pm via videoconference. 

Case Number: 2023-003913

In February of 2018, an inmate of Southern Desert Correctional Center received a cornea transplant procedure after being diagnosed with an eye disease known as keratoconus, which can cause glaring, halos around lights, difficulty seeing a night, eye irritation, headaches associated with eye pain, increased sensitivity to light, and sudden worsening or clouding of vision. Following the surgery, he was prescribed prednisone, which is an immunosuppressant drug used to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ. Explicit directions were given by the NDOC eye doctor not to allow this medication to lapse. Client was also prescribed artificial tears and dorzolamide. Although he was classified as a “chronic care” patient, his prescriptions were frequently allowed to lapse for weeks at a time. On March 31, 2021, client was taken to a specialist, who revealed that at least one of the stitches in the eye had come loose. This caused extreme pain, and resulted in an infection. He filed this civil rights complaint alleging deliberate indifference and is seeking injunctive relief and monetary compensation. He would like an attorney through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No upcoming deadlines. 

Case Number: 2023-004325

An inmate at Nye County Detention Center filed a civil rights complaint after he alleges a guard covered the camera of his cell and remove him from the cell with excessive force and transferred him to the booking area. He claims his thumb was fractured while being placed in restraints and his nose was broken when they slammed his face against the bars of his cell. He alleges he then experienced delayed treatment resulting in pain and suffering. He is seeking monetary and injunctive relief. He would like an attorney to assist him through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No upcoming deadlines.

Case Number: 2023-004499 (Pending Conflict)

An inmate at Lovelock Correctional Center alleges that he suffered a heart attack while in custody at High Desert State Prison due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and delays in receiving prescriptions. He further claims he has not received a recommended follow-up procedure and, at the time of filing the Complaint, he had been without his cholesterol and hypertension medications since November 2021 and December 2021, respectively. Plaintiff further alleges he is the only person in his housing unit that received delayed treatment and medication. He filed a civil rights complaint alleging deliberate indifference to serious medical needs and is seeking an attorney to represent him in this matter through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): No upcoming deadlines. 

Guardianship

Case Number: 2023-004928 (Pending Placement)

An adult man with mental disabilities and a seizure disorder is seeking representation in a guardianship matter. His parents and guardians initially petitioned for guardianship in 2011 and it was granted, but they never filed the required reports. The court revoked the letters and closed the case in 2015. The parents are now petitioning to reinstate the guardianship. Next Hearing(s): Hearing on Petition to Reopen Guardianship Case, Reinstate Guardian, and Issue General Letters of Guardianship on 5/24/23 at 10 am in Department F.

Spanish/Non-English Speaking

Case Number: 2023-001452 (Pending Placement)

A woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce from her husband of over forty years. They are currently still living together, but have been separated for around ten years. The client has suffered from domestic abuse the entirety of their relationship and she is still enduring his abuse every month that they are married. The client would like to keep the car, continue living in the apartment,  and keep the furniture. She is hoping for spousal support and would like to consult with an attorney regarding this request. This client is Spanish speaking and an interpreter is available upon request. Next Hearing(s): No Case Has Been Filed. 

Case Number: 2023-002947

A woman is wanting to file for divorce after suffering through years of physical, verbal, and sexual abuse from her partner.  The client has moved herself and the children out of the home and is staying with a family member. They share two young children and the client would be requesting physical custody and joint legal custody. The client is wanting to request spousal support and to keep the vehicle she currently has in her possession. This woman is in need of an attorney to assist her with filing for divorce. Next Hearing(s): No Case Has Been Filed.