NLG-CCC Legal Observer Applicant Screening

NLG-CCC Legal Observer Applicant Screening – Operational Requirements

This screening is the first step in applying to serve as a Legal Observer with the National Lawyers Guild California Central Coast Chapter, covering San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties. It focuses on role boundaries, coordination expectations, communication requirements, and operational readiness. Completion of this screening does not guarantee acceptance or placement. Applicants whose responses indicate appropriate operational fit will be invited to complete the full application.
Full Name*

First NameLast Name
Email*
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1. During an action, a Lead Legal Observer gives an instruction you disagree with. What is the appropriate response?*

A. Ask for clarification once, then follow the instruction as givenB. Discuss the concern with other Legal Observers to see if they agreeC. Follow your best judgment if the instruction seems incorrectD. Pause participation until the issue is resolved seems incorrect
2. Which of the following is within the Legal Observer (LO) role during an action?*

A. Advising participants of their rights when askedB. Intervening if a situation appears unsafeC. Documenting events and observing without interactionD. Helping de-escalate conflicts when tensions rise
3. Before or during an action, which communication is appropriate for a Legal Observer?*

A. Confirming logistics directly with event organizersB. Answering organizer questions if you are already on site (even if minor or logistical)C. Directing all organizer communication to the Lead LOD. Coordinating informally if it helps the action run smoothly
4. You believe a small procedural change would improve Legal Observer operations. What should you do?*

A. Implement it and notify chapter leadership afterwardB. Raise it through designated channels and wait for guidanceC. Test it informally during an actionD. Share the idea with other volunteers or external partners to build consensus
5. Why are Legal Observer identification, credentials, and gear centrally controlled or conditionally authorized?*

A. To ensure consistent appearance and reduce liability riskB. To maintain authority and credibility in the fieldC. To avoid confusion with other roles and organizationsD. All of the above
6. Instructions during actions may be brief, and follow-up discussion is not always possible. How should this be handled?*

A. Request additional explanation before proceedingB. Proceed as instructed and raise questions later if neededC. Seek clarification from peers on siteD. Adjust based on your experience if details are missing
7. If you have concerns about a Lead LO decision, when is it appropriate to raise them?*

A. Immediately, so the decision can be correctedB. During the action if it affects othersC. After the action through established feedback channelsD. Only if multiple observers share the concern
8. You indicate availability for an action but are not selected as a Legal Observer. What is the appropriate response?*

A. Ask why you were not chosen so you can address any concernsB. Assume you may still attend in an observer capacityC. Accept the decision and await future opportunitiesD. Check with organizers to see if coverage is still needed
9. What most appeals to you about serving as a Legal Observer?*

A. Supporting participants and keeping people safeB. Being present during important actionsC. Neutral documentation and accountabilityD. Helping ensure actions are effective
10. Legal Observer participation requires use of a verified, chapter-approved communication account. Shortly before an action, you believe your current account may be compromised or otherwise inappropriate to use. What is the appropriate response?*

A. Inform chapter leadership of the issue and follow their direction, even if that means you cannot participate in the actionB. Request that leadership make an exception so you can still participateC. Ask another Legal Observer to relay information for you during the actionD. Delay raising the issue until after the action to avoid disruption
11. Legal Observing may require standing or walking for extended periods, maintaining attention for several hours, and remaining calm and observant in tense or noisy environments, without in-field accommodations. Which statement best describes your ability to meet these demands?*

A. I can reliably meet these demands without accommodationB. I can usually meet these demands but may need flexibility depending on conditionsC. I may need breaks, modifications, or early departure during actionsD. I am not able to meet these demands consistently
12. Legal Observer coordination requires timely use of Signal during assignments. Which statement best reflects your readiness?*

A. I already use Signal and can reliably monitor and respond during assignmentsB. I do not currently use Signal but am willing and able to install and use it as requiredC. I prefer other communication platforms and check Signal only intermittentlyD. I am unable or unwilling to use Signal
Required Acknowledgments*

I understand that Legal Observers operate under centralized coordination and are expected to follow instructions as given, even when explanation is limited.I understand that timely participation in the chapter’s designated communication platform is required for Legal Observer service.I understand that possession of Legal Observer gear, credentials, or access does not confer authorization to act, make public statements, or represent the chapter without explicit assignment.I understand that notes, observations, and materials created while serving as a Legal Observer are subject to chapter policies and direction.I understand that Legal Observers do not self-deploy. Attendance at any action in a Legal Observer capacity requires explicit assignment or authorization from the chapter.I understand that I may not serve as a Legal Observer at actions that I have organized, co-organized, or helped plan, regardless of training, availability, or need.I understand that Legal Observer participation is conditional and may be suspended or revoked at any time, including immediately, based on conduct, role boundaries, security concerns, or operational needs.I understand that decisions regarding Legal Observer eligibility, assignment, or removal may be made without advance notice and without detailed explanation.I understand that coordinator and leadership decisions regarding Legal Observer participation are final for purposes of placement and eligibility.
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NLG-CCC Legal Observer Applicant Screening – Operational Requirements