About the Institute for Justice
IJ is a nonprofit, public interest law firm. Our mission is to end widespread abuses of government power and secure the constitutional rights that allow all Americans to pursue their dreams.
Featured Event
South Side Pitch 2023
Small businesses from across the South Side of Chicago are competing in South Side Pitch 2023, sharing stories about their roots, their impacts, and their visions for the future. The final round of competition is a Shark Tank-style event where finalists pitch their businesses to a citywide audience and a panel of judges for the chance to win cash prizes totaling over $31,000. Tune in to YouTube to watch the livestream on October 19 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern!
Support IJ client Jerry Johnson and others like him by making a gift
Your tax-deductible contribution helps IJ fight for ordinary people who want to pursue their American Dream but find the government standing in their way. We stand with our clients no matter how long their cases take—and we win nearly 75% of the time.
Our Issue Areas
Our Projects
Project on Immunity and Accountability
Qualified immunity and other legal doctrines let government workers violate constitutional rights with impunity. IJ works to eliminate these barriers to accountability.
IJ’s Project on the 4th Amendment
Every American is now at risk of government searches, seizures, and surveillance. IJ defends vital rights to privacy and security.
Civil Forfeiture
Unlike criminal forfeiture, which takes property from convicted criminals, civil forfeiture does not require property owners to be convicted of a crime—or even charged with one—to permanently lose their cash, cars, businesses or even their homes.
Homemade Food
All individuals have the right to produce, advertise, sell, procure, and consume the foods of their choice. IJ ensures they can use these rights to provide for themselves, their families, and their communities.
