Profile
Defending the Chesapeake Bay Through Legal Action ⚖️
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the Chesapeake Legal Alliance (CLA) is a unique non-profit organization dedicated to using the power of the law to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Founded in 2009 by attorneys Russell Stevenson and Ridgway Hall, CLA fills a critical gap in the environmental movement by providing free legal services to citizens, community groups, and environmental advocates. By leveraging a vast network of volunteer attorneys and a dedicated staff, CLA ensures that the laws designed to protect public health and the environment are enforced.
Environmental Legal Assistance 🌿
CLA is the only regional organization solely focused on providing pro bono legal support for Bay-related issues. They assist clients who otherwise would not have the resources to fight against pollution and illegal development.
- Enforcement and Compliance: Taking legal action against polluters who violate the Clean Water Act and other environmental regulations.
- Land Use and Zoning: Representing communities in challenges to unsustainable development projects that threaten local waterways and ecosystems.
- Permitting: Reviewing and challenging state and federal permits to ensure they meet strict environmental standards.
Empowering Communities 🤝
Beyond litigation, the Chesapeake Legal Alliance empowers local citizens to become effective advocates for their own communities.
- Legal Education: Conducting workshops and producing guides to help the public understand complex environmental laws and public participation processes.
- Policy Advocacy: Working with legislators and regulators to draft and strengthen laws that protect the Bay's natural resources.
- Community Consulting: Advising non-profits and grassroots groups on corporate governance and strategic planning.
A Network of Legal Advocates 🌊
The strength of the Chesapeake Legal Alliance lies in its collaborative model. The organization coordinates a network of hundreds of volunteer attorneys from private firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. This "army of lawyers" donates millions of dollars worth of legal services annually. Whether representing a small neighborhood association or litigating a major federal case, CLA provides the high-quality legal firepower needed to achieve enduring results for the Chesapeake Bay and the communities that depend on it.
Contact Us 📍
The Chesapeake Legal Alliance is headquartered at 1212 West St, Annapolis, MD. Individuals and groups seeking legal assistance for environmental matters are encouraged to contact the office to discuss their eligibility for pro bono services.
Specializing In
Environmental Law, Land Use, Clean Water Act, Pro Bono Services
Address & Location
Situated in the active Uptown Annapolis neighborhood along the West Street commercial sector.
Building Location
This is the Earl Conservation Center, a commercial building constructed in 1926. It is located near the Gampopa Center place of worship.
Suite Access
Enter the Earl Conservation Center through the main front entrance. Proceed through the front doors to the ground-floor lobby area.
Parking Details
Ample visitor parking is available in the adjacent surface public parking lots situated next to the building.
Public Transit
Served by Maryland Transit Administration Route 220 (Washington DC); nearest stop is at West Street & Cherry Grove Avenue (Library) Eastbound.
Map
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.





