The article examines the dilemma frontline emergency officials face in balancing strict adherence to rules with the need for discretion in crisis situations. Focus- ing on "infra-law”—a set of informal, flexible regulations specific to street-level bureaucracy—the author proposes that infra-law can moderate the discretion exercised by these officials. Given that emergencies are inherently unpredict- able and urgent, he argues that strict rule-following often fails, making discre- tion necessary for effective crisis response. However, excessive discretion risks inconsistency and arbitrariness, undermining legality and public trust. Infra- law, typically embodied in directives, protocols, or internal guidelines, offers a middle ground. By providing a real-time guidance adaptable to the unique demands of specific emergencies, infra-law helps align frontline actions with overarching legal and organisational frameworks while respecting the practical realities of emergency decision-making. This framework, supported by organi- sational disciplinary power, aims to limit arbitrariness and maintain legality, ensuring that emergency responses remain both flexible and accountable.

Key words: emergency, rule of law, efficiency, infra-law, street-level bureau- crats.