From the G20, to Occupy Toronto to Indigenous struggles, we have seen the way that the State uses the court system and criminal charges to divide our movements and drive our communities apart. The Movement Defence Committee is seeking to develop new resources to support community members and activists as they go through legal and court processes. We are soliciting feedback from individuals and groups about what kinds of supports, information and resources would assist with navigating the legal process and court system. If you have been targeted by the State or if you have provided support to others navigating criminal charges and court processes, we would like to hear from you about what kinds of resources, materials and other supports will assist you in this work.
What are we looking for?
We are looking to hear your stories and feedback about your experience with the legal system, including:
– what were your experiences following your arrest
– what supports made things better and what supports were missing;
– what expectations did you have regarding your lawyer? how were these expectations met/not met;
– how you dealt with problems between you and your lawyer; and – different strategies you used for providing support to individuals who are awaiting trial or incarcerated.
If you are interested in helping out and providing your feedback, please send us an email at lawunionmdc@gmail.com before October 15. We will then put you in touch with the MDC’s Court Support Working Group.
The MDC will use your feedback to put together resources related to court support in the hopes of better supporting our communities and fostering resistance.
In solidarity,
The Movement Defence Committee Court Support Working Group