Animal Law (S)

This seminar presents an introductory survey of the historical and current status of nonhuman animals in this rapidly developing field of law. The seminar will examine animal issues in the context of a broad span of substantive legal areas, including contracts, torts, wills and trusts and criminal law. Additionally, we will study key federal and state legislation regulating animal welfare and animal treatment. We will explore constitutional principles such as standing jurisprudence that are applicable to the emergence and development of animal rights. Through written materials and class discussion, we will consider the tools available to lawyers to effectuate social, cultural, and legal change to our perspective on how we see, speak about, and protect non-human animals. The seminar will focus on both a scholarly understanding of the subject and a pragmatic approach to practice in this area, whether as a specialty or as related to other more traditional legal fields.