How much money do I ask for when filling out a claim form for false arrest?

Get Legal Help Today

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

How much money do I ask for when filling out a claim form for false arrest?

I was arrested for an outstanding warrant for a traffic violation, however, the court dropped the case a year prior. Unfortunately they never retracted the warrant. Consequently, when I called 911 regarding trespassers on my property, I was arrested instead. I spent the whole evening and morning in county jail. As soon as I was released I contacted the courts and it was their error. I was given a clam form to fill out for damages. I just don’t know how to fill it out or how much to ask for, or how much they would even be willing to pay? I don’t want it to drag but I think they should pay. My work was notified.

Asked on March 22, 2011 under Personal Injury, California

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 13 years ago | Contributor

I would consult with an attorney on the matter before you fill out the claim form. It is difficult for anyone to give any guidance on the matter without seeing the form in front of them.  And your case really needs to be assessed by speaking with you on the various factors involved that relate to your life specifically.  I am afraid that if you fill out the form that you may preclude yourself from bringing an action later on should there be additional fall out from the matter (like your losing your job).  Although if it is a release of sorts and a good lawyer could try and have it set aside because you were not represented by counsel when you signed it there is no guarantee that that argument would win.  Get help.  Good luck.


IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.

Get Legal Help Today

Find the right lawyer for your legal issue.

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption