In this episode, learn about the intersection of animal protection and cruelty, domestic violence, and family law with two leaders in the field. Guests Maricarmen Garza is chief counsel for the American Bar Association Commission on Domestic & Sexual Violence and Megan Senatori is the executive director of the Center for Animal Law Studies at the Lewis & Clark Law School.

The field of animal law is emerging as states, courts, and lawyers recognize how animal law and animal abuse plays into domestic violence and family law. Progress is being made, but this critical field isn’t fully recognized or understood.

In many cases, victims of domestic violence are forced into difficult situations, caught between their own safety and the safety of beloved animal family members. The American Bar Association recently recognized the issue through both its Animal Law Committee and the Commission on Domestic & Sexual Violence. ABA’s recently approved Resolution 504 calls for laws and judicial processes that protect domestic violence survivors and their pets through civil protection orders, domestic relations proceedings, and expanded access to safe housing.

Litigators play a vital role in developing this area of law. Hear what you can do and where you can find legal guidance when protecting victims of domestic violence and their pets, from dogs and cats to horses and others.

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Resources Mentioned:
Five Ways Attorneys Can Support Domestic Violence Clients with Pets

Sheltering Animals of Abuse Victims – Start Up Guide

ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section Animal Law Committee

ABA Resolution 504 “ABA House Adopts Policy to Protect Domestic Violence Survivors and Their Pets”

American Bar Association Commission on Domestic & Sexual Violence

American Bar Association Animal Law Committee

American Bar Association

American Bar Association Litigation Section