THE OVERREACH FILES

Know Your Rights

Understand the authority behind the rules.

This section will translate complicated ordinances, procedures and public-records rules into plain language. It is educational information—not individualized legal advice.

Authority

What law, ordinance or policy gives an agency or official the power being exercised?

Due Process

What notice, hearing, appeal or other process may apply?

Public Records

What government records may be available to the public?

Documentation

What should a citizen preserve when an enforcement dispute arises?