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Three US Marshal task force officers killed in NC shootout; MA municipalities aim to lower the voting age for local elections; breaking barriers for health equity with nutritional strategies; "Product of USA" label for meat items could carry more weight under the new rule.

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Ukraine receives much-needed U.S. aid, though it's just getting started. Protesting college students are up in arms about pro-Israel stances. And, end-of-life care advocates stand up for minors' gender-affirming care in Montana.

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More rural working-age people are dying young compared to their urban counterparts, the internet was a lifesaver for rural students during the pandemic but the connection has been broken for many, and conservationists believe a new rule governing public lands will protect them for future generations.

The Colorado Case that Improved Human Rights for Inmates Nationwide

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Monday, April 19, 2010   

DENVER - A Colorado court case has helped improve human rights standards for inmates around the country. The case of Amanda Hall v. Colorado Department of Corrections is one of three nominated for "Case of the Year" by the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA).

Attorney Mari Newman says Hall reached out to her law firm, Killmer, Lane & Newman, after being abused and raped by prison guards. After years of litigation, she says a negotiated settlement was reached that did not simply include payment of damages but also led to important changes within the Department of Corrections.

"They instituted additional training for guards, installed numerous surveillance cameras and now have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse of inmates."

This case has been used as the legal foundation for other awards against guards and prison systems nationwide, she adds.

"It has had a ripple effect throughout the nation to create increased inmate safety from sexual assault by guards."

Newman says Hall's case also has helped dispel the notion that inmates "deserve whatever they get."

"The judge in this case found that inmates have certain human rights that absolutely cannot be violated by prison guards."

The case and separate charges brought against a guard who raped Hall also helped set a precedent that guards can be held personally liable for abuse, Newman points out.

The "Case of the Year" will be announced at the CTLA spring dinner on May 13 in Denver. The Hall case was litigated by Newman, Rebecca Wallace and Althea Licht of Killmer, Lane & Newman.




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