Our goal is to educate the scientific community about the legal system, their rights, and their responsibilities. When scientists understand the legal issues surrounding their work, they’re able to better protect themselves against intimidation, media smear campaigns, and other forms of harassment.
We often collaborate with public universities, scientific societies, and other partners to raise awareness of our programming and ensure that it reaches scientists who may be at risk of ideologically motivated litigation or other attacks.
We offer:
Please contact us if you’d like to partner with us on a project or arrange for a workshop for your group.
Our programming prepares attorneys to defend researchers and protect the scientific endeavor. We also serve as a clearinghouse for information related to legal action taken against scientists, which can inform strategies for — and outcomes of — future cases.
Initiatives for attorneys and law professors include:
This report describes the existing protections for scientific records, and their applications, in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.
What’s allowed and what's restricted when engaging in election-related activities like campaigning or fundraising for a candidate.
This guide helps scientists—particularly those who receive federal or state funding—navigate the important notice-and-comment process and understand best practices for participating in agency rulemaking.
This guide covers specific types of potential risks related to serving as an expert witness and other consulting work, including legal issues, monetary concerns, and conflicts of interest.
Scientists: know your rights, recognize fear tactics, protect your research and reputation, and fight back against intimidation by fossil fuel corporations.
CSLDF will discuss ways that scientists can apply their expertise in advocacy efforts, both as professionals and as private citizens, and how scientists can safely participate in these activities while minimizing the risk of negative repercussions.
Learn best practices for getting involved in the upcoming election, how to engage with Congress on important legislative matters, and how scientists can be most effective in their advocacy efforts overall.
We need lawyers and firms to assist us on a pro bono basis by advising scientists. Send us a message to start a conversation.
Our attorneys are happy to talk with journalists about our work and topics at the intersection of climate and the law.
Science is under sustained attack. Your support help us fight for scientists and defend scientific integrity.