Am I obligated to pay a contractor in full for work that looks shoddy, or can I withhold payment until his work is inspected?

You should withhold and speak to a lawyer about suing him now.

I have done name changes and they have you submit a criminal background check. I would say you will not be able to do it while on parole. That is...

What are my next steps after being the uninsured victim of a hit and run?

Possibly. At least ask for a free consultation with a lawyer. Not sure based on your question if the cops made an arrest. If so you may be eligible...

I have a warrant for stop reporting to probation officer its been 11years for theft and the judge order me 5 years probation but

You have a warrant that will not expire so every day you wait it only gets worse. See a lawyer.

A lawyer would get you more money even with their contingency fee deducted.

Can this be considered defamation since a state policeman insinuated I am a pedophile on Facebook?

Sounds like free speech to me. I would just move on with your life.

Uninsured driver was struck by taxi driver with insurance

Not sure why you mention jail. If you are being sued you can not go to jail. You are looking at owing money and license issues.

How can I get a good settlement

They just don't take unrepresented people seriously.

If you were the defendant and it says judgment for defendant then yes you won.

Will I get more than $25,000 for my car accident which the other driver was at fault

Sounds bad. Speak to your lawyer and perhaps they can better advise you.