Our friend Jeanne, an activist based near Greenfield, MA, took time to sit down with us last week to share a fraction of the knowledge she’s acquired from her years as an activist working within the system.

If you find yourself in legal land – where a man or woman spouting arbitrary legalese purports that they can somehow be impartial despite being paid by the same violence-based institution that threatens you with theft (fines) or kidnapping (caging) – for a victimless action, don’t take the plea. Instead, do damage control (get out with the least negative repercussions), connect with allies (for informational and emotional support) and use the opportunity to educate others on their rights.