Animal Law-What is it?

Animal Law is a new area of legal practice, much like Environmental Law was in decades past. Although Animal Law includes the intersection between animals and traditional practice areas, it is at its essence an interdisciplinary field generating new ideas about rapidly evolving legal claims.

If Animal Law is only considered in the traditional practice area, than the application in each particular field is defined by animal issues in it. Thus, in Family Law a case could involve custody of a pet, or the exclusion of a family member based upon domestic violence toward the animal.

In Criminal Law, a case could involve animal cruelty, or the sale of exotic or endangered animals contrary to state, and national laws, as well as international treaties. Law makers have stiffened criminal penalties, particularly when serious injury or death of pets is involved.

There are many contract issues in Animal Law, which now includes Equine Law. Some involve ownership, co-ownership, and the right to show and sell valuable animals, including horses, cats and dogs. Some disgruntled owners seek recourse against others by seeking Harassment Orders.

Always, there are claims about dangerous dogs. Any complaint should be taken seriously because of a potential death penalty. Also, insurance ramifications should be investigated and understood.

The list of the types of Animal Law cases is long, because they involve causes of actions ranging from Tort Law, including veterinary malpractice and business defamation, to the governmental stewardship of the Endangered Species Act. But whatever the practice of Animal Law is today, change is coming. It is a field in fast forward.

Back to Gislason & Associates Animal Law

7400 University Avenue NE
Fridley, MN 55432
Tel: 763.572.9297
Fax: 763.571.1576