Back strategic lawsuits to get higher courts (ultimately SCOTUS) to narrow or overturn qualified immunity.
Invest in strategic cases and coordinated amicus work that ask courts to narrow qualified immunity and keep serious misconduct claims alive. Pick strong fact patterns and legal theories, build a durable record, and push the best cases up the appellate ladder. Litigation is slower, but it can create structural change that survives political swings.
Why this works
- If the Supreme Court (or new legislation) removes QI, it’s a permanent structural change; litigation also keeps egregious cases in public view, building moral momentum.
Center for Science in the Public Interest
Tax-deductibleFood and health policy watchdog advancing safer food, honest labeling, and evidence-based nutrition.
Mechanism
About LitigationHow Center for Science in the Public Interest uses funding
- Screen potential cases for standing, venue, and a clear legal theory aimed at narrowing qualified immunity.
- File the case and define the remedy sought, including keeping claims alive through early motions.
- Build the record through evidence, briefing, and coordinated legal support.
- File amicus briefs and pursue appeals to higher courts where the facts and posture are strong.
- Track and enforce outcomes so wins translate into real-world practice.
Milestones
Checkpoints and the expected timing for each step
- 1
Case screening + priority docket set
0–30 daysA shortlist of target cases and venues is selected with clear legal theories.
- 2
Initial filings + amicus plan
1–3 monthsCases are filed and coordinated briefing schedules are mapped.
- 3
Appellate push
6–18 monthsKey appeals advance with amicus support and public-facing updates.
- 4
Ruling + follow-through
OngoingDecisions are translated into guidance and next legal steps as courts act.