What does the LDF fundamentally do?
When necessary, the Hoosier Environmental Council will undertake strategic environmental legal actions to reduce pollution or protect natural areas, and will support select environmental legal actions by other citizen-based organizations.

When and why was it established?
The LDF was established in 1993 to:

• Undertake litigation to achieve HEC’s policy objectives;
• Build a network of attorneys to provide legal representation for environmental interests in Indiana, and a roster of technical experts (biologists, economists, hydrologists) to assist them
• Help citizens and communities affected by environmental problems find legal representation through this network

The assistance we offer to other organizations includes serving as a fiscal agent to help fund the cost of a qualifying legal proceeding.  Tax-deductible contributions to HEC LDF can be used to pay for attorneys’ fees, expert witnesses and other costs.

Why does HEC pursue legal advocacy, why can’t it just build partnerships with corporations or government?
Sometimes legal action is the only remaining option for addressing serious environmental concerns that affect people`s health and well-being. We always first try to achieve our goals through cooperation or collaboration, but if this approach is unsuccessful, and the stakes for impacting people`s livelihoods are significant, than HEC has an obligation to explore a legal remedy.

For more information on the Legal Defense Fund, contact Tim Maloney at 317-658-8800 ext 115