Episodes

  • Episode 4.5 Filing Your Lawsuit

    Episode 4.5 Filing Your Lawsuit
    Oct 15 2024
    In this episode, LaShawn takes a closer look at the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA), focusing on two key components: the Three-Strikes Rule and district court screening. He explains how the Three-Strikes Rule can limit inmates' ability to file lawsuits after three dismissals for being frivolous or malicious, and how district courts screen complaints to determine if they meet the necessary legal requirements before moving forward. LaShawn also provides practical advice on how to navigate these challenges to ensure your case is taken seriously. This episode is essential for anyone facing the barriers created by the PLRA.
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    18 mins
  • Preparing Your Lawsuit

    Preparing Your Lawsuit
    Oct 8 2024
    In this episode, LaShawn breaks down the steps for preparing the initial paperwork for your lawsuit, covering all the essential documents that need to be included. He also explains how indigent inmates can file an in forma pauperis (IFP) form, allowing them to proceed with a lawsuit without paying court fees under the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA). Whether you're preparing your case or looking for ways to access the legal system without financial resources, this episode provides crucial guidance.
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    21 mins
  • Documenting the Truth: What to Do Right After an Incident

    Documenting the Truth: What to Do Right After an Incident
    Oct 1 2024
    In this episode, LaShawn emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action after an incident occurs. He discusses how writing everything down—the who, what, when, where, and why—can be the difference between a strong case and no case at all. LaShawn also dives into gathering pre-complaint evidence and the crucial step of exhausting your administrative remedies as an inmate. Whether it’s through filing grievances or documenting every detail, LaShawn shows listeners how to build a solid foundation for a legal claim right from the start.
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    11 mins
  • Understanding Cause of Action: Your First Step in Filing a Lawsuit

    Understanding Cause of Action: Your First Step in Filing a Lawsuit
    Sep 24 2024
    In this episode, LaShawn explains the critical concept of "Cause of Action"—the legal foundation for filing any lawsuit. He breaks down how to identify when your rights have been violated, what constitutes a valid claim, and the importance of having a strong cause of action in prison-related cases. From civil rights violations to constitutional breaches, LaShawn equips listeners with the knowledge needed to take that crucial first step toward legal action.
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    19 mins
  • Walking Lawsuits: The Battle for Basic Rights

    Walking Lawsuits: The Battle for Basic Rights
    Sep 17 2024
    In the season opener, LaShawn breaks down the concept of prisons as "walking lawsuits," detailing the systemic rights violations that incarcerated people face every day. From medical neglect to denial of religious practices, LaShawn provides an eye-opening look at how prison officials fail to uphold basic constitutional rights.
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    8 mins
  • Season 1 Listener Comments and Feedback

    Season 1 Listener Comments and Feedback
    Sep 14 2024
    In this episode, LaShawn answers YouTube comments from Season 1 and takes a moment to thank everyone for tuning in and supporting the show. He shares his thoughts on listener feedback and provides additional insights into the topics covered last season. Tune in to hear LaShawn's responses and reflections as he connects with the audience.
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    5 mins
  • Prisons Are Walking Lawsuits

    Prisons Are Walking Lawsuits
    Sep 14 2024
    We're back! LaShawn Fitch, host of Order in the Court, returns with a new season straight from New Jersey State Prison. In Season 2, LaShawn promises to expose how prisons violate the most basic rights of incarcerated individuals.

    Some topics he will cover this season include inadequate medical care, excessive force, denial of legal access, and the hidden barriers created by the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA).

    With firsthand experience and legal expertise, LaShawn offers a guide to fighting back against the injustices of the prison system. Get ready for another eye-opening season as he equips listeners with the tools to hold prison officials accountable.
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    5 mins
  • New Jersey Gov. announces clemency program | Part 2

    New Jersey Gov. announces clemency program | Part 2
    Jul 2 2024
    LaShawn Fitch is currently incarcerated in New Jersey State Prison in Trenton New Jersey. Despite his incarcerating LaShawn is determined to share his knowledge of the law with the outside world. In this episode of Order in the Court LaShawn discusses the recently announced clemency program in New Jersey.
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    20 mins