The purpose of legal observing is to protect the civil liberties of political activists. Legal Observers do not intentionally become involved in the actions or intervene in any confrontations with police or others. Legal Observers strive to refrain from actions that could be construed as participating in a demonstration.

Legal Observers can make the following contributions:

•  Legal Observers may deter police misconduct,
•  Legal Observers may testify about their observations,
•  Legal Observers may assist activists who are detained, arrested, or who need medical attention, by alerting the appropriate support teams associated with the demonstration.

The desirable qualities of a legal observer include the ability to:

•  Remain calm in chaotic situations,
•  Pay attention to detail,
•  Balance risk and safety to maximize effectiveness,
•  Write unbiased descriptions of the scene or event, and
• Focus on unconstitutional actions.

  To request legal observers for a demonstration, or for questions about the legal observing program, please contact the Legal Observer Committee at (612) 728-9610 / djadante(at)lycos.com.

Thanks for all you do!

National Lawyers Guild-Minnesota Chapter