Help Us Build a Better California
California Civil Defense Institute helps Californians fight government abuse, expose corruption, and build a better California through public records, social media, lawsuits, and policy. Whether you’re facing abusive government, sharing evidence of misconduct, or looking to support our work, we want to hear from you.
Tell Us What's Happening
We receive a high volume of inquiries and will contact you if we need additional information. Please direct inquiries through this form or by email; no calls. If you do not hear from us within 30 days, it is unlikely we will be able to assist. Our inability to assist does not reflect a determination of your case’s merits. Submitting an inquiry does not establish an attorney-client relationship or mean we have agreed to represent you. Legal deadlines continue to apply, so please do not wait for our response before taking steps to protect your rights.
Real stories from those we've helped
What CCDI is doing matters—not just for me, but for this entire community. They’re stepping in where most people can’t, pushing back against unfair enforcement and standing up for people who are just trying to build something meaningful. It’s clear they’re focused on real people and real impact. The work they’re doing isn’t abstract—it directly affects families, small businesses, and the future of communities like ours.
Brad Christian
Owner of Black Oak Mountain Vineyards in Cool, California
CCDI is doing the kind of work that directly impacts whether housing can actually get built in this county. The current system—permits, planning, and code enforcement—is inconsistent, slow, and often detached from real-world needs. What sets CCDI apart is their focus on fixing the root problem. They’re not just reacting to individual cases—they’re exposing how the system itself blocks housing, drives up costs, and makes it harder for families to build and live here. That kind of pressure is long overdue.
Kevin McCarty
Board of Directors, Housing El Dorado
