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 Pro Bono Project Director, Michael Wendlberger (MWendlberger@lacsn.org).

Abuse/Neglect Cases - Children's Attorneys Project

Case Number: 2023-004802 (Urgent)

A group of four siblings, a 12-year-old boy, 5-year-old boy, a 4-year-old boy, and a 2-year-old girl, were removed by DFS due to neglect, improper care, lack of shelter and other care necessary for their well-being. The mother is unemployed, transient, and has a history of homelessness. DFS previously helped her obtain housing, but she did not maintain it. The parents have a lengthy history of domestic violence and the father has issues with drugs. He is in a virtual rehabilitation center. When the children were removed, the mother had an active arrest warrant and was arrested, leaving no one to care for the children. During questioning, the mother reported the father had sexually assaulted one of the children. 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 10/17/2023 at 3:00 pm and Review Hearing on 04/16/2024 at 2:15 pm in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2022-008172 (Urgent)

A group of three siblings ages 5, 4, and 3 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 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): Permanency Planning Hearing on 12/28/2023 at 4:00 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-005371 (Urgent)

An 8-year-old girl came into DFS care because of threats of impending danger because the mother’s boyfriend is a convicted child sexual offender and is normally found in the home with the girl. He is a Tier One registered sex offender and also has a history of domestic violence. The mother has a history of substance abuse and lacks the resources to provide her daughter with the basic needs. She has a history with DFS and two older children have been removed from her care. The named father has not established paternity and has had no contact with the little girl. As a result, this 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 10/18/2023 at 1:30 pm; Review Hearing on 11/01/2023 at 10:45 am and Annual Review Hearing on 05/01/2024 at 10:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-005837 (Urgent)

Sisters, ages 14 and 15, came to the attention of DFS after their current guardian refused to take them back. Their mother, who was formerly incarcerated, now expresses her desire to regain custody of the children. DFS conducted a drug test on the mother which is currently pending, and they need to evaluate the living situation. The children are currently at a local shelter. These teen girls 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 11/08/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-006816 (Urgent)

A newborn baby girl came into DFS custody due to parental drug use and lack of resources to provide minor for the basic needs. Both mother and baby girl tested positive for amphetamines, opiates, and marijuana. The father also tested positive for drugs. Their drug use compromises their ability to care for minor child. At this time, 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): Review Hearing on 11/29/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 9.

Case Number: 2023-007276 (Urgent)

A sibling group of four children ages 14, 12, 8, and 4 went into DFS care because their mother was physically abusing them. In April 2023, the mother was arrested for Domestic Battery with a Deadly Weapon when she physically harmed her 16-year-old son by throwing a knife at him, cutting his hand. The 4-year-old reported she observed mother throw the knife at her brother. Their mother has been frequently observed punching, slapping and striking the children with open hands and belts, leaving visible marks. The father is believed to know the mother was physically abusing the children but did not act to protect them. At this time, these siblings 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 11/21/2023 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-007419 (Urgent)

Three siblings, a 9-year-old, 6-year-old and 5-year-old came into DFS custody the mother’s drug and alcohol use has become an issue impacting her ability to care for the minor children. She admitted to DFS that she has a problem with drugs and tested positive in her urine for amphetamine. She lacks sufficient income and stable housing to provide for the basic needs of the children. Two of the possible fathers are reported to be deceased and the other father has abandoned the minor by having no contact with the child or failing to provide financial or other support for minor. As such, these three kids 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): Status Check Hearing (Minor’s placement) on 10/03/2023 at 11:00 am; Review Hearing on 11/7/2023 at 1:30 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 05/07/2024 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-008582 (Pending Placement)

Siblings, a 7-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, were removed by DFS due to physical abuse and neglect inflicted to their older sibling. The father to these two minors physically abused his step-son, an older sibling, which resulted in physical injury. The father was arrested and charged with Child Abuse, Neglect and Endangerment. The mother knew or had reason to know that the father was physically abusing her older child, yet she did nothing to prevent it or exposed her other children to an unsafe environment. Both parents were given a case plan to follow on the case of the abused sibling and they have not complied or been engaged. At this time, these two siblings 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 10/12/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-008014 (Urgent)

A group of four siblings, ages 14, 11, 8, and 5, came into DFS custody when their mother brought them to Child Haven and reported she and the children were homeless because she had lost her job and was evicted from her apartment. She received an offer for emergency housing but she refused the emergency housing, reporting that she was unstable. Despite being offered several referrals and community resources that can be utilized to support her children, she refused all services as she could not care for her children. There are three different fathers to the children and none of them have provided any financial or other type of support for their children. The Department was unable to make an assessment of two of the fathers due to lack of contact. The other father is currently incarcerated and unable to discharge his responsibilities. 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 10/24/2023 at 10;30 am; Review Hearing on 12/12/2023 at 2:15 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 06/12/2024 at 10:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-007642 (Pending Placement)

A group of three siblings ages 11-year old girl, 10-year old girl and 7-year boy old came into DFS custody due to allegations of physical abuse by the parents. The father physically abused the 7-year old boy causing him maxillofacial injuries, bruising and swelling to his left eye.  The other two children have been struck in the past but had no current visible injuries.  The mother knew or had reason to know that the father was physically abusing the minor children and did nothing to prevent or stop the abuse from occurring.  The mother kept the children away from school to address the minor’s injuries instead of reporting the incident.  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 08/01/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-008335 (Urgent)

A newborn baby boy came into DFS custody after he and the mother tested positive for amphetamines and PCP. Early this year, the mother was arrested and charged with DUI and Child Abuse while she was driving under the influence with her two older children in the car. She failed to appear at her arraignment and a bench warrant has been issued. The mother experiences symptoms of PTSD and post-partum depression, which are inadequately treated and impair her ability to care for this minor child. Infant could not be released to the putative father due to a history of ongoing domestic violence incidents between him and the mother. At this time, 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 12/5/2023 at 3:30 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 06/04/2024 at 2:00 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-008353 (Pending Placement)

A newborn baby boy came into the custody of DFS after both he and the mother tested positive for amphetamine and methamphetamine after birth. The mother tried leaving the hospital with the infant prior to him being medically cleared and knowing the Department was investigating. The parents have history of substance abuse, they have not been compliant with drug testing, and have both failed to submit to drug tests. The mother experiences symptoms of major depressive disorder and mental health conditions, which are inadequately treated and impair her ability to care for minor. At this time, 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 12/12/2023 at 2:30 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 06/11/2024 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-009019 (Urgent)

A 10-year-old boy came into DFS custody because of domestic violence. The parents have been involved in several incidents of domestic violence in his presence, putting him at risk of harm. The parents admitted to domestic violence in the home and the minor reported witnessing the incidents and being fearful of the father. Despite the ongoing domestic violence, the mother and father have not taken steps to protect 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): Calendar Call (Further Proceedings for Mother)  on 11/02/2023 at 9:45 am and Adjudicatory Trial on 11/13/2023 at 9:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-007365 (Urgent)

This is a case involving a group of siblings ages 11, 10, 8, 6, and 1 who were removed from their parents by DFS due to homelessness and physical abuse. There are actually six kids, but this case is only for the younger five children as the oldest brother has a separate case. The parents have subjected the children to harmful behavior that terrorizes, degrades, and is emotionally painful and traumatic. The mother’s mental health conditions caused by substance abuse are inadequately treated and impair her ability to care or protect her children. Both parents have history with CPS in the state of Florida and both fled the state with the minor children. The younger five children are currently at Child Haven. At this time, these five children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement and to ensure appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 11/27/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 10.

Case Number: 2023-008993

A newborn baby girl came into DFS custody after both infant and mother tested positive for methamphetamine and opiates at the time of birth.  Infant is reported as being affected by parental substance use as having withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure. Mother lacks housing and income to provide for the basic needs of the minor child. The mother has prior history with DFS which resulted in her parental rights being terminated for two other children.  At this time, this child 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): Status Check (DNA test results) on 10/03/2023 at 11:00 am; Review Hearing on 11/14/2023 at 2:30 pm and Permanency Planning Hearing on 06/25/2024 at 2:00 pm in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-008492

A newborn baby girl came into DFS custody due to parental drug use and improper supervision.  The mother left infant without the proper care or supervision and was solely relying in the care of hospital nurses.  She refused to bond with the infant and did not attend to her needs while in the hospital.  The father was not around after the infant’s birth.  Both parents have criminal histories for controlled substance crimes and both have failed to take court ordered drug tests.  Baby girl was placed with relatives after her release from the hospital. The parents have not made any attempts to contact infant.  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): Review Hearing on 01/09/2024 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-009883

A newborn baby girl came into the custody of DFS after testing positive for drugs at the time of birth. The mother has a history of substance use, and although she reported she has not used drugs since she found out she was pregnant a few months ago, she has a long history of drug use that has interfered with her ability to parent. She has not successfully completed formal substance abuse treatments even though she was previously referred to an in-patient treatment. There are also allegations of domestic violence between the parents and they lack stable housing and income to provide for infant. 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 all appropriate services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Calendar Call on 10/04/2023 at 3:00 pm and Adjudicatory Trial on 10/09/2023 at 9:30 am in Courtroom 9.

Case Number: 2023-010147

A 3-year old boy came into DFS custody due parental domestic violence and prior history with the Department. The parents have history of domestic violence incidents, which have taken place near the presence of the minor, putting him and other siblings at risk of harm. Additionally, both parents have history with the department and they have both been found to be responsible for the abuse and neglect of another child. 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 09/28/2023at 11:00 am and Review Hearing on 01/17/2024 at 2:00 pm in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-009860

A newborn baby girl came into DFS care due to being born substance exposed.  The parents have an open case where they are both presumed to be inappropriate care providers and have not overcome the presumption on that case.  They also have a history of substance abuse to include an open case, in which they were given a case plan to address their substance abuse and have failed to adequately engage in substance abuse treatment.  As such, this newborn 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 09/27/2023 at 10:00 am in Courtroom 12.

Case Number: 2023-009403

Two siblings, ages 2-years old and 1-year old came into DFS custody due to mother’s history of violence against maternal grandmother and younger sibling. During the last altercation, the mother was arrested for Assault with a Deadly Weapon against younger sibling and Domestic Violence against maternal grandmother.  The father of the minor children is currently incarcerated at Southern Desert Correctional Center and it is unknown if he has established paternity of the minor children.  At this time, these two 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.  The Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 01/24/2024 at 2:30 pm in Courtroom 9.

Case Number: 2023-010420 (Urgent)

A 7-year old boy came into DFS custody after he reported to school staff that he was struck in the back of the head with a beer bottle by his mother.  The mother was charged with Child Abuse and has an ongoing case with the Henderson Justice Court.   The mother experiences symptoms of PTSD and explosive anger episodes among other mental health conditions.  She has not been treated accordingly for these conditions and that impairs her ability to care for the minor.  The putative father’s whereabouts are unknown.  At this time, this minor boy is in need of an attorney to represent his legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Adjudicatory Trial on 10/26/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-010535

An 11-year old girl came into DFS custody along with her three siblings, due to allegations of sexual abuse of an older sibling perpetrated by the mother and their step-father, parental drug use and domestic violence.  Both, the mother and the step-father have been charged with Child Abuse, Sex Assault and Lewdness with a Child.  Their conduct places minor at risk of physical and/or emotional harm.  The natural father’s involvement in incidents of domestic violence with the mother has impacted his ability to provide safe and appropriate care or maintain a relationship with the minor.  Minor is currently placed with a relative.  At this time, this minor girl is in need of an attorney to represent her legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Review Hearing on 11/15/2023 at 10:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-010373

Two siblings, ages 15-year old and 10-year old came into DFS custody due to allegations of improper supervision, parental health mental and lack of resoucres.  The Department received several reports indicating that the mother continuously left the minor children without proper adult supervision for long periods of time.  The mother experiences symptoms of bipolar and depression and other mental health conditions, which are inadequately treated and impair her ability to care for the minor children.  The father’s whereabouts are unknown, and it is also unknown if paternity has been established.  At this time, these two children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes and rights as to permanency, placement and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Disposition Hearing on 10/04/2023 at 11:00 am in Courtroom 13.

Case Number: 2023-010562

A 13-year old girl was removed by DFS due to parental substance use and threat of harm.  The Department received a report that while the parents were driving to Las Vegas from Oregon, they were both intoxicated with minors in the vehicle.  When the Department confronted the parents, they became defensive and denied the allegations about drinking and driving.  Both parents have history of convictions and/or arrests for crimes related to aggressive behavior and possession of illegal substances, which creates an impending danger for minor.  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 10/31/2023 at 10:30 am and Adjudicatory Trial on 11/03/2023 at 9:30 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-010549

A group of three siblings, 4-year old, 2-year old and 1-year old came into DFS custody due to parental drug use and domestic violence. There have been several reports of ongoing violence between the parents in the presence of the children.  The police were called during the last incident and the mother was arrested.  The parents also lack resources to provide a safe environment for the children.  At this time, these children are in need of an attorney to represent their legal wishes as to permanency, placement, visitation and to ensure appropriate services are in place.  Next Hearing(s): Confirmation of Counsel on 10/03/2023 at 2:00 pm and Disposition Hearing on 10/19/2023 at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 12.  

Case Number: 2023-011307

A one-month old baby boy came into DFS care after he was born premature. This case involves allegations of parental drug use and mental health.  The mother has reported that the father has a history of drug use, and he has failed to submit to drug testing as ordered by the Court. It has been learned that the mother continues to maintain a relationship with the father, despite of the history of domestic violence between them. She experiences symptoms of Bipolar disorder among other mental health conditions, which are inadequately treated and impair her ability to care for minor.  At this time, this 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 10/16/2023 at 9:30 am in Courtroom 8.

Case Number: 2023-010972

A newborn baby boy came into DFS custody due to parental drug use and parental mental health. The mother has a history of of substance usage and has openly admitted that she uses methamphetamine on a daily basis. Furthermore, the mother experiences symptoms of mental health conditions, which are inadequately treated and impair her ability to care for minor. Infant boy tested positive for methamphetamine and remained in the NICU for several days. 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 proper services are in place. Next Hearing(s): Plea Hearing on 09/26/2023 at 9:45 am in Courtroom 11.

Case Number: 2023-010658

Sibling girls, ages 15-year-old and 2-year-old came into DFS custody after an emotionally traumatic event unfolded at their residence.  The minor girls were both present in the home when the father to oldest girl showed up to their residence and shot and injured two of their family members. While he was attacking the two family members, the mother hid the two girls in a bedroom closet to protect them. The father broke down the door of the bedroom, grabbed the mom by her hair and drug her out to the living room and shot her three times, killing her. The 15-year-old witnessed the murder and stabbed the father with a knife in defense. The father left the home and surrendered himself later that day. This incident occurred hours after a court hearing regarding the parent’s divorce and custody.  The minor girls are placed with maternal relatives at the moment.  At this time, these sibling girls 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): Plea Hearing on 10/4/2023 at 3:00 pm in Courtroom 11.

Appeals

Case Number: 2023-010864

An inmate at Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC) appeals a district court order dismissing his writ of mandamus. The inmate had filed the writ of mandamus because he alleges he had attempted to get probate documents notarized while in prison and prison staff refused his requests. He asked the court for an order directing the staff at NNCC to notarize the document. Instead, the district court granted the respondent’s motion to dismiss based on argument that NNCC staff would be willing to notarize the document, making the claim moot. The inmate appealed this decision, arguing that there should have been an order granting declaratory relief because prisons have a statutory duty to follow the notary procedures set forth by law and prisoners should not have to institute litigation to get notary services. He is in need of an attorney to assist him through the Nevada Appellate Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): Notice of Appearance due on 10/27/23. 

Consumer Fraud

Case Number: 2023-003274

A man is in need of assistance with a troubling auto repair dispute. In February 2022, he entrusted his truck to a repair shop for necessary repairs. However, the auto repair shop failed to provide a written estimate for the repairs, yet demanded $2,941. Despite his payment, the shop insisted on additional money before returning the car, which he refused to pay without a proper estimate. As a result, the auto repair shop unlawfully retains possession of the car. Two demand letters were sent on June 5, 2023, and June 26, 2023, demanding either the repair and return of the car or a full refund of $2,941. The auto repair shop received and ignored both letters. The client is primarily concerned about reclaiming as much of his money as possible since he never received the repaired car he had paid for. The man would like assistance navigating the small claims process and receiving what he is owed. The client is Spanish-speaking and a volunteer interpreter is available through our Volunteer Interpreter Program upon request. Next Hearing(s): No upcoming deadlines.

Family Law (Divorce/Custody)

Case Number: 2023-009489

A woman is seeking assistance obtaining custody of her child because the father of her child is abusive. He has threatened to kill her family. She would like sole legal and physical custody, but is willing to consider other options. She is primarily Spanish-speaking and a volunteer interpreter is available through the Volunteer Interpreter Program. Next Hearing(s): No Case Filed. 

Case Number: 2023-010505

A woman is seeking assistance with divorce and custody case because she and the opposing party are no longer compatible. They have four young children and the children reside with their mother. Both parents are seeking joint physical and joint legal custody. There are no community assets or debts to divide. She filed for divorce in 2021, but the case was dismissed for failure to take action for more than 3 months on a case that was pending for more than 6 months. Next Hearing(s): No Open Case. 

Federal Pro Bono Program

Case Number: 2022-011591 (Pending Placement)

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: 2023-003910 (Urgent)

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: 2023-000967 (Urgent)

A woman in her 50s filed a civil rights lawsuit against her former employer alleging discrimination based on age and race and retaliation. She alleges she was singled out, criticized, humiliated and verbally attacked after she notified management about a monkey stain on her cubicle wall. She alleges she was subjected to corrective action. When she complained of the corrective action, she was told to submit any complaints in writing, which was not the requirement for other employees younger and not the same race. In addition, she alleges age discrimination because her work responsibilities were assigned to a younger employee although there were no complaints about the quality of her work. She applied for other positions within the company and alleges management conspired with her supervisor to have her suspended from work and alleges they filed charges against her with the company’s human resources that were untrue in order to prevent her from securing another position. She was ultimately terminated. She filed a complaint with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) in June 2020 and NERC issued a Notice of Right to Sue letter. She then filed in federal court and is seeking assistance with this case through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s):  Response to Defendant’s Motion to Compel Arbitration and to Dismiss the Action, or, Alternatively, to Stay the Action Pending Arbitration due 8/1/23.  

Case Number: 2023-007511 (Pending Placement)

An inmate at High Desert State Prison alleges he suffered injury to his right hand because of excessive force used when he was handcuffed by a transport officer and the handcuffs were too tight. He reports he told the officer but the officer did nothing. He alleges he experienced pain in his hand and submitted a medical request. After an ex-ray, he states the doctor told him he had Handcuff Neuropathy. He experiences nerve damage, loss of feeling, weakened grip, and chronic pain as a result. He filed a 1983 claim against the officer and is seeking assistance with the case through the Federal Pro Bono Program.

Case Number: 2023-005007 (Urgent)

A former inmate filed a civil rights lawsuit because he alleges NDOC, Clark County School District, and other named defendants unconstitutionally denied him of his liberty without due process because they failed to timely and properly apply deductions to his sentence as allowed by law that would have resulted in an earlier release from prison on parole. He also claims he was denied equal opportunity under the law because he is a sex offender. He earned his high school diploma and took other vocational courses while incarcerated, which entitled him to sentence deductions under Nevada law.  He calculates that the educational time was not properly applied to his sentence to make him eligible for parole 2 months prior to when he was actually released. As a result, he filed his lawsuit. In October 2022, the Court entered an Order Dismissing his First Amended Complaint and he appealed it to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. In April 2023, the Ninth Circuit issued a memorandum reversing in part and affirming in part the Court’s Order and remanding the case back to the District Court with respect to the due process claim. The equal opportunity claim dismissal was affirmed. This man is in need of an attorney to assist him in his case through the Federal Pro Bono Program.

Case Number: 2023-003912 (Pending Placement)

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: 2023-009230 (Urgent)

An inmate at Lovelock Correctional Center filed a 1983 claim alleging denial of proper medical care in violation of the 8th Amendment. He was experiencing a medical issue and met with a correctional facility doctor to address the issue. He states the doctor tried some treatments before recommending he see an outside medical provider. He met with the outside medical provider who he states told him the procedures done in the prison were not proper and, because of those procedures, his testicle had to be removed. He submitted multiple grievances that were denied or not resolved to his satisfaction so he filed a federal claim. He is in need of an attorney to assist him in his case through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Hearing: Status Conference on 9/14/2023 at 11:00 am. 

Case Number: 2023-003167 (Urgent)

A former inmate filed a civil rights lawsuit alleging he was denied medical care in violation of the 8th Amendment. Specifically, he claims he complained of severe joint pain from 2016 to when he filed his complaint in 2021. He states he submitted multiple kites requesting to see a doctor, but did not see a doctor in the prison and was not examined by a nurse practitioner until 2020. Based on that visit, he was given prescription medication to address the pain, two knee braces, and an elbow brace. He was then referred to an orthopedic specialist and for x-rays. He had not seen the specialist as of the filing of the complaint on 10/8/21. He submitted multiple grievances because of the lack of medical care and they were denied. He also experienced an infection that resulted in going to the emergency room because the prison staff did not provide the emergency care he requested through emergency kites. He is seeking an attorney to represent him in his case through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Hearing(s)/Deadline(s): Dispositive Motions were due by 4/17/2023 and proposed Joint Pretrial Order was due by 5/17/2023. A Motion to Extend Time was filed on 4/17/23 by Defendant and nothing else filed. 

Case Number: 2023-008420 (Urgent)

A man suffering from Hepatitis C, a curable disease, now has irreversible liver damage with incurable cirrhosis because the Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC) did not give him the treatment he needed to take care of the Hepatitis C. He believes NDOC failed to provide him with any “one of the many commercially available drugs” to cure his Hepatitis C despite knowing that not doing so would cause serious risk to his health. As a result, filed a 42 U.S.C. 1983 complaint alleging violations of the Eighth Amendment. This inmate is seeking representation through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Hearing(s): Status Conference on 9/19/2023 at 12:15 pm by videoconferencing.

Case Number: 2023-008715 (Urgent)

An inmate at High Desert State Prison (HDSP) alleges he was denied all medical treatment for a condition he was diagnosed with and treated for prior to entering the Nevada prison system. He was diagnosed with Scoliosis in 2003 and started treatment for it while incarcerated in Los Angeles to address the severe pain and loss of sensation it caused in his left leg and back. He did physical therapy and pain medication management through Los Angeles Women’s and Children’s Hospital. In 2004, he was extradited to Las Vegas and he informed the officers of his medical needs. He requested his medical files be transferred with him to Nevada and claims the officers refused to transfer them. He then notified CCDC of his condition when he arrived in Las Vegas but received no treatment. In 2005 and 2006, he alleges he again notified officers at two different prisons of his pain and loss of feeling and they did x-rays, but determined there was no concern and did no treatment except give him Ibuprofen. A couple years later, he was injured at Ely State Prison and could not stand, sit, walk, or lay down. He put in a medical request and they responded with Naproxen. His cell mate had to help him use the bathroom and wash his face. In 2015, he was working in the HDSP laundry room and injured his back again, more severely, causing more pain, complete loss of feeling in his left leg and groin, and loss of bladder and bowel control. In response, they gave him Ibuprofen and Naproxen. Because of the lack of medical treatment he received despite multiple requests over years, he filed a civil rights lawsuit. He would like an attorney to represent him through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Hearing(s): Status Conference on 9/6/23 at 3:00 pm via videoconferencing.

Case Number: 2023-008725 (Urgent)

A inmate is seeking assistance with a federal civil rights complaint stemming from alleged deliberate indifference to serious medical conditions in violation of the 8th Amendment, including a compressed spine, carpal tunnel, and nerve damage in both hands. While he received treatment, including medication and physical therapy, he alleges he has been denied surgical intervention necessary and approved to address his compressed cervical spine and carpal tunnel. Without surgical intervention, his pain and suffering has increased. He also believes the damage could be permanent, possibly leading to paralysis, if he does not receive the surgeries. He is seeking an attorney through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): Inmate Early Mediation Conference on 9/15/2023 at 01:00 PM in LV Chambers – Videoconference; Case stayed until after Inmate Early Mediation Conference

Case Number: 2023-009271

An inmate at Ely State Prison filed a civil rights complaint after he claims he assaulted by two prison officers while handcuffed and shackled in December 2020. He alleges he was choked, kicked, and repeatedly punched while they yelled racist insults at him. He suffered what he felt was a fractured cheek bone, loss of hearing, and an injury to his hand, although it took almost two years to get an x-ray done. He put in a request for medical attention after the incident but was not seen by the nurse practitioner until July 2021. The NP ordered x-rays and gave him 800 mg Ibuprofen for the pain. They did not get him in for x-rays until September 2022. After filing multiple medical kites and grievances, he filed this lawsuit. He claims deliberate indifference to serious medical need in violation of the 8th Amendment and equal protection in violation of the 14th amendment, as well as cruel and unusual punishment/excessive use of force in violation of the 8th Amendment and racial discrimination. He is seeking an attorney through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): Case Stayed until pro bono counsel is identified and formally appointed. 

Case Number: 2023-010361 (Urgent)

An inmate at High Desert State Prison (HDSP) filed a civil rights complaint against multiple defendants for modified program operations implemented purportedly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that eliminated access to outdoor exercise for up to 6 months, then limited it to 1-2 hours per week. Because of this modification, the inmate was only able to go outside for exercise for less than 20 hours between March 18, 2020 and January 1, 2021. The prison was then put on 24/7 lockdown with only two or three 30-minute shower/phone breaks a week from January 7, 2023-February 9, 2022 and all outdoor exercise was cancelled during that time. As a result, the inmate gained 80lbs, experienced significant muscle atrophy, and his pre-existing anxiety and depression were exacerbated. After his first-level grievance was denied, he filed this lawsuit and is seeking an attorney to assist him in this case through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadline(s): Preliminary injunction related to outdoor time in place and status reports regarding compliance with the injunction are due no later than 10/13/23; Status hearing on 10/30/23 at 10:00 AM in LV Courtroom 6B.

Case Number: 2021-033064

An inmate has been in the custody of the Nevada Department of Corrections for much longer than required as a result of alleged improper application of credit for time served. As a result, he filed a 42 U.S.C. 1983 complaint alleging he did not get the proper credit for time served and has deprived him of his liberty. He needs an attorney to fight for him through the Federal Pro Bono Program. Next Deadlines(s): Plaintiff’s Motion to Amend Complaint due on 10/13/23. 

Spanish/Non-English Speaking

Case Number: 2023-003274

A man is in need of assistance with a troubling auto repair dispute. In February 2022, he entrusted his truck to a repair shop for necessary repairs. However, the auto repair shop failed to provide a written estimate for the repairs, yet demanded $2,941. Despite his payment, the shop insisted on additional money before returning the car, which he refused to pay without a proper estimate. As a result, the auto repair shop unlawfully retains possession of the car. Two demand letters were sent on June 5, 2023, and June 26, 2023, demanding either the repair and return of the car or a full refund of $2,941. The auto repair shop received and ignored both letters. The client is primarily concerned about reclaiming as much of his money as possible since he never received the repaired car he had paid for. The man would like assistance navigating the small claims process and receiving what he is owed. The client is Spanish-speaking and a volunteer interpreter is available through our Volunteer Interpreter Program upon request. Next Hearing(s): No upcoming deadlines.

Case Number: 2023-009489

A woman is seeking assistance obtaining custody of her child because the father of her child is abusive. He has threatened to kill her family. She would like sole legal and physical custody, but is willing to consider other options. She is primarily Spanish-speaking and a volunteer interpreter is available through the Volunteer Interpreter Program. Next Hearing(s): No Case Filed.