Animal Law

This course will explore the legal issues pertaining to animals, the laws that govern their treatment, as well as a number of topics that fall within the general headings "animal law" and "animal rights." We will examine the historical and philosophical treatment of animals, and how those views impact the way law currently governs treatment and use of animals. We will study current and proposed animal protection laws; "standing" and the problems of litigating on behalf of animals; the classification of animals as "property" and legal effect of that classification as well as the gradual erosion of that classification in certain areas; first amendment issues in animal cruelty protections and environmental and wildlife issues. From time to time there will be guest speakers.