A Legal Voice for the Chicano Community: The Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, 1968-1982

Published in 1984. Social Science Quarterly 65 (2): 245-256.

Karen O'Connor
Lee Epstein

Abstract

The authors examine the history and activities of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF), which litigates on behalf of Chicanos.  Previous studies of interest group litigation are drawn upon to formulate hypotheses concerning interest group success in the judicial arena.  These hypotheses are then tested through an examination of the litigation activities of MALDEF between 1968- and 1982.  The finding indicate that the factors considered critical to interest group litigation success are helpful in explaining the evolution of MALDEF.

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