Student Legal Resources

Navigating legal issues can be challenging,
but you don’t have to do it alone.

Understanding your rights is essential, and resources are available to help you navigate your options. The following provides accessible information on common legal topics that affect students at both the California-specific and federal levels.

Housing Rights

Know your rights as a renter—explore these resources to understand lease agreements, tenant protections, eviction laws, and what to do in challenging housing situations.

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Renters' Rights

Looking for guidance on your rights as a renter in San Luis Obispo? The City offers the Safe Housing Program and resources to help you understand security deposits, evictions, repairs, living conditions, and landlord responsibilities—so you can feel confident and informed in your home.

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Tenant Rights

Renters in California have legal protections regarding leases, security deposits, repairs, evictions, and more. The California Tenants Guide is a comprehensive guide on tenant laws that can assist with understanding your rights to help navigate landlord disputes and ensure fair treatment.

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Lease Agreements & Terms

Lease agreements outline the terms of a rental such as rent, deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and tenant rights. Understanding the clauses in your lease agreement can help to avoid legal disputes. A Complete Guide to the California Lease Agreement provides information about common terms and how to interpret them.

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Evictions or Uninhabitable Conditions

If you are facing uninhabitable living conditions or possible eviction, there are numerous rights and legal options that can support you in navigating these issues. The California Courts Self-Help Guide offers information about defenses and protections with eviction cases. Landlord-Tenant Issues provides resources regarding tenant protections, rent caps, eviction laws, housing conditions, and legal assistance for both tenants and landlords.

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Employee Rights

Employees in California have protected rights to fair wages and equitable treatment.

If you believe your employer has violated wage laws, denied breaks, or engaged in other unfair labor practices, you can file a complaint with the California Labor Board.

View a complete overview of your employment legal protections and how to enforce them through the California Labor Enforcement Task Force Workers Rights.

Campus Policies & Reporting

Cal Poly upholds policies to ensure a safe, fair, and respectful campus environment. These policies range from academic integrity, drug and alcohol usage, sexual misconduct, and more.

The Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities (OSRR) allows students and the campus community to file complaints related to conduct, clubs/organizations, bias incidents, or student concerns. Visit OSRR website to learn more about the types of complaints and step-by-step procedures for filing.  

Academic Accommodations

Students with disabilities are entitled to academic accommodations under the ADA and Section 504, such as extended test time, note-taking support, and accessible materials. Registering with the campus disability resource center ensures equal access to education.  

Substance Use

Driving Under the Influence

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges can lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The State of California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers information on what comes after a DUI charge and the actionable steps you should take.

Minor in Possession

MIP charges can carry penalties such as fines, community service, or mandatory education programs. The Child Crime Prevention & Safety Center discusses common alcohol-related offenses involving juveniles in California.

Using a Fake ID

False identification or using a fake ID is illegal. You can be charged for possession of a fake ID, even without actually trying to use it. Fake ID laws cover a wide range of activities and different activities can result in different crime charges.

Law Enforcment

Interactions with law enforcement

Know your rights when interacting with law enforcement, including your right to remain silent, unlawful searches, refuse searches without a warrant, and request legal representation. Staying calm and informed can help protect you. Explore the following resources from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to learn more:

Campus Police & Policy

Campus Administrative Policies provide guidelines and regulations to ensure compliance, accountability, and effective operations at Cal Poly.

Protesting On Campus

Students have the right to peaceful protest under the First Amendment but must follow university policies on time, place, and manner to avoid disruptions to campus operations. While you can express your views freely, actions like blocking entrances, causing harm, or violating noise restrictions may lead to disciplinary action. Understanding your rights ensures your voice is heard while staying within legal and campus boundaries.

Parking & Traffic Violations

Learn how to manage parking and traffic violations, including options for handling citations, speeding tickets, and resolving fines through payment or contesting.

Parking Tickets

While parking tickets can be frustrating, reviewing the citation for payment or contesting options can help you resolve it quickly and avoid additional fines or holds. Always check the citation for specific instructions and payment options.

Speeding Tickets

Speeding tickets can result in fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance rates. When you receive a ticket, you typically have the option to pay the fine, contest the ticket in court, or attend traffic school to avoid points. Failing to respond by the deadline can lead to additional penalties or even a license suspension. Understanding your options can help you handle the situation effectively.

Small Claims Court

Small claims court allows individuals to resolve disputes, such as unpaid rent, property damage, or contract issues, without an attorney. As your own representative, you’ll need to gather evidence, prepare your argument, and present your case clearly to the judge. Understanding court procedures, deadlines, and documentation requirements can strengthen your case and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Legal Clinics & Support

Find free or low-cost legal help through community clinics, legal hotlines, and local resources—whether you need advice, document assistance, or guidance on your rights.

Community Legal Aid Clinics

Free or low-cost legal assistance is available through community legal aid clinics, offering guidance on housing, employment, and consumer rights, including consultations, document help, and referrals. Reaching out to these organizations can be a valuable first step in understanding and addressing your legal concerns.

Legal Hotlines

Legal hotlines provide quick, confidential assistance for a variety of legal issues, including tenant rights, employment disputes, and consumer protection. These hotlines connect you with professionals who can offer advice, explain your rights, and guide you on next steps. They’re a great resource when you need immediate support or aren’t sure where to start.

  • Hotline for free legal advice and information on accident law: 1-800-THE-LAW2
  • Free legal advice hotline from Community Legal Aid SoCal: 1-800-834-5001 or 714-571-5200
  • The Legal Advice Line from Bay Area Legal Aide, offering advice on civil legal issues: 1-800-551-5554
  • A Better Balance Free Legal Helpline: 1-833-NEED-ABB
  • National Sexual Assualt Hotline, offering legal options for survivors of sexual assault: 1-567-SHATTER (567-742-8837)
  • Lumina Alliance SLO County Women’s Shelter, for sexual assault/domestic violence shelter and information: 1-805-545-8888

Additional Feedback

 

Are there additional topics or resources you would like to see?

Student Legal Resources strives to offer accessible information on common legal topics impacting students, both at the California and federal levels. We appreciate your feedback on any additional topics or resources that would be useful or of interest to students.