We can help journalists in legal trouble
The Legal Defense Fund is about of money that SPJ uses to help journalists with legal battles. A committee that includes LDF chairman Dave Aeikens, President Christine Tatum, and the Freedom of Information Committee of Joel Campbell, David Cullier and Robert Leger decide what causes to support.
Right now, just short of $82,000 is in the fund. The committee can grant up to $1,000. Anything larger, needs a vote from the full SPJ national board. The committee looks to support cases that have the broadest overall impact for journalistsand uphold principles of open government and the First Amendment.
The committee has recently supported the Boston Herald and two reporters from the San Francisco Chronicle. http://www.spj.org/ldf-a.asp In August, the board gave $30,000 to Josh Wolf http://www.joshwolf.net/ to pay for his legal fees. It was the largest single grant provided by LDF.
If you would like to apply for a grant, please downlaod an application os this page
http://www.spj.org/ldf.asp?