The Legal Defense Fund is the leading American legal organization fighting for racial justice. This tragic story is all too common: someone buys a puppy from a breeder or pet store, only to discover that his new furry family member is very sick, often fatal. If this happens to you, your heart will not heal easily. But you can have legal action against the breeder or pet store. About the NFOIC Knight FOI Fund/SPJ Legal Defense Fund The Knight FOI Fund exists to provide financial support in open government prosecutions. It was created to promote and support the prosecution of major access to information cases by helping to cover costs such as filing fees, filings, court fees and other costs related to court proceedings. The Society`s Legal Defense Fund is a single account that can be used for legal or direct financial support to journalists. The Fund`s primary mission is to initiate and assist litigation that enhances public access to government documents and procedures, which may be the most costly way to defend the First Amendment. Due to the partnership with NFOIC, legal costs may also be covered.
The two organizations will also use their combined national networks of journalists and citizens to exert public pressure on government agencies that violate the law. The SPJ Legal Defense Fund was established in 1972 to fight for the First Amendment, primarily for public records and public meetings. Litigants apply for funds and applications are reviewed by a six-member committee assisted by SPJ counsel. The committee may award grants of up to $5,000, and larger amounts are considered by the SPJ Board of Directors. The fund has approximately $75,000 and is replenished through donations, interest and an annual auction. In 2014, SPJ`s Board of Directors approved the creation of an endowment fund that can also be used in the event of litigation. The foundation currently generates approximately $4,000 per year. The Knight FOI Fund was established in 2010 by NFOIC with a grant from the Knight Foundation to help litigants fight for open government. The fund pays court fees, filing fees, testimony and related expenses, typically $2,000 to $3,000 per case. The fund, which currently stands at $444,000, does not pay legal fees or dictate which lawyer will be used in the case.
If the beneficiary wins their case and receives a reward, they must reimburse NFOIC and provide funds for future cases. A dispute settlement committee decides on the merits of the claims. As part of this partnership, SPJ and NFOIC: – Staff and volunteers from both organizations solicit nominations and monitor public file battles at the state and federal levels for valid cases. – Priority for cases that a) have a solid legal basis, b) are able to establish good jurisprudence, and c) help citizens and journalists regardless of the complainant`s profession. – Write or attach amicus curiae briefs and/or intervene in cases as appropriate. – Coordination of public relations and advocacy. – Ask other partners when warranted, such as state coalitions and other national access organizations. To update your mailing address or email address, update your credit card information, or update your email subscription, please visit our Member Center. Please understand that ALDF does not represent individuals in private litigation and we are prohibited from providing legal advice for your personal situation.
To maximize the impact of our supporters` donations, Animal Legal Defense Fund staff focus their resources on programs that protect life and promote the interests of animals through the legal system. Please read the following information for the fastest way to get the information or support you are looking for. The Society of Professional Journalists collects and distributes contributions to help journalists defend the freedom of speech and press guaranteed by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The primary mission of the Legal Defense Fund is to initiate and assist litigation that enhances public access to government documents and proceedings, which may be the most expensive way to defend the First Amendment. The fund can also be a source of support for freedom of information hotlines, coalitions and newsletters, as well as for legislative lobbying activities to enforce public access to government documents and procedures. Due to the partnership with NFOIC, legal costs may also be covered. The two organizations will also use their combined national networks of journalists and citizens to exert public pressure on government agencies that flout the law. All applications for financial assistance to the Legal Protection Fund shall be considered, taking into account in particular those activities that have an impact on the most ambitious and positive results. How to apply for an LDF grant Complete one of the following online forms: Legal Defense Fund Auction: Participate and bid! You don`t want to miss the opportunity to see the fabulous stories on offer and network with hundreds of journalists for a good cause! Proceeds from the event will go to SPJ`s Legal Defense Fund, a unique account that financially supports journalists who litigate freedom of expression and press freedom. The live and silent auctions will take place at the Excellence in Journalism 2016 conference.
You can help litigate important litigation that protects the First Amendment by contributing to SPJ`s annual LDF auction. For more information and to see a list of the ideas we are asking for, follow this link. Please specify the exact purpose for which you are seeking assistance. Be sure to apply all the documents you have to support your application. Note if you would also like to apply for NFOIC funding. If your request is urgent, call the National Head Office at 317-927-8000 or call the Presidents of the Society`s Legal Defense Fund or Access to Information Committees. Be prepared to send certain documents by email. If you have any questions before submitting your application, please email legaldefense@spj.org. It may be helpful to seek help from a local president or SPJ regional director first. The national head office can provide names and telephone numbers. Note: A six-member review committee can make decisions on financial claims up to $5,000 at any time of the year.
The Board of Directors of the Corporation must consider all applications over $5,000. The group meets annually in April and October. It is very troubling that your local animal welfare organizations are not responding effectively and compassionately to the needs of animals in your community. Please note that your contact with us is neither confidential nor privileged and does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Animal Legal Defense Fund or any member of our legal staff. Our mission is caring and informative. We support and defend the law enforcement profession and law enforcement officers who have dedicated their lives to upholding the Constitution and have served the United States and its citizens in enforcing their laws. We also seek to raise public awareness of the many risks and threats faced by law enforcement agencies in order to build a more informed, respectful and grateful society. LDF issues statement on the passage of police laws by the U.S. House of Representatives Please enter your details below to receive information that may be useful to you.