Through Justice in Action, our litigation program, the CLDC provides free legal representation or referrals to frontline climate and social justice activists.
Activist Defense
The CLDC represents activists that, in the course of fighting for a better world, are arrested and criminally charged. We believe their courage deserves the best possible legal defense that can incorporate their political, social, and philosophical motivations. Because we believe that many of these activists are acting out of necessity, we do not charge attorney fees to represent them. At any given time, CLDC attorneys represent numerous activists in criminal cases involving action-related arrests.
Civil Cases
The CLDC holds powerful corporations and governments accountable for violating the constitutional rights of activists and marginalized communities through civil litigation. The civil practice of the CLDC is shaped and driven by a desire to protect people’s rights—especially those who lack the financial means to secure legal representation—and create a lasting impact through creating and reinforcing legal precedents. We generally take cases that have the potential to change or reinterpret unfavorable laws and policies.