In life threatening crisis situations, the law recognizes that a safe and peaceful resolution is the paramount objective. Because legal issues arise in crisis situations, however, it is beneficial to assign a legal advisor to the crisis management team. The following legal issues are most likely to arise in crisis situations: application of the fourth amendment's proscription of unreasonable search and seizure, admissibility of statements made during negotiations, enforceability of promises made by negotiators, use of electronic surveillance equipment, use of force, and media control. Crisis situations are stressful and demanding, but associated legal issues do not pose insurmountable obstacles to safe and peaceful crisis resolution. Law enforcement managers should integrate the various legal issues into their policy development, training programs, and operational decisionmaking. 32 endnotes