How the ACLU of Oklahoma Accepts Cases

The ACLU of Oklahoma receives over 2,000 requests for help each year. Therefore, all complaints must be received in writing. The preferred format is a one- to three-page letter that explains the problem, the parties involved, and existing documentation to support the complaint.

Items submitted for consideration become property of the ACLU of Oklahoma, and will not be returned. Furthermore, this material is treated as confidential information protected by attorney-client privilege.

A full review of complaints requires between two to six weeks. If a matter is accepted for action by the ACLU or more information must be gathered, the staff will contact the complainant.

The ACLU has limited staff time and is unable to provide legal advice. The office does not provide attorney referrals when requests for assistance are not granted.

What does it cost?

In ACLU cases, the attorneys represent clients free of charge. Lawyers handle cases for the ACLU based on their available time and expertise. If clients cannot afford filing fees or other court-related costs, the ACLU will pay for these expenses.

What types of causes are accepted?

The ACLU handles cases that make a difference to large groups of people. Criteria for acceptance include consideration of:

  • Whether a significant civil liberties interest is at stake.
  • What impact can be realized for the public’s interest.
  • Whether existing resources allow for a case to be handled effectively.

The ACLU of Oklahoma does not usually assist with the following types of situations:

  • Cases not involving abuse of individual rights by an entity of local, state or federal government.
  • Cases that seek damages without standing to obtain prospective declaratory or injunctive relief.
  • Cases involving postconviction relief.
  • Cases based on the actions of private companies or individuals who do not perform governmental functions.
  • Cases involving clients who are already represented by a lawyer.
  • Cases involving the denial of benefits such as workers compensation, unemployment or Social Security.
  • Cases of child custody, divorce, or family matters that does not violate equal protection, privacy, or due process rights by the government.
  • Criminal defense cases in which the charge is not based on constitutionally protected activity.
  • Complaints about the performance of an attorney.

What rights are defended by the ACLU?

The ACLU of Oklahoma seeks to preserve individual liberty guaranteed by the Bill of Rights against the power of government. These rights include:

  • Religious liberty
  • Freedom of Speech
  • Freedom of the press
  • Freedom to petition the government
  • Freedom of assembly
  • Freedom of association
  • Freedom from unreasonable search or seizure
  • Freedom from cruel and unusual punishment
  • The right to privacy
  • The right to due process of the law
  • The right to a jury trial
  • The right to legal counsel
  • The right to equal protection under the law

 

More info about our litigation work and how to request help.