Animal Legal Defense Fund

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The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) is an American non-profit animal rights law organization focused on protecting and advancing the interests of animals through the legal system. Founded in 1979 by attorney Joyce Tischler, it now has over 100,000 members and supporters, with offices in San Francisco, Omaha, Nebraska, and Portland, Oregon. [1]

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[edit] Programs

The ALDF's litigation program files lawsuits to stop the abuse of pets or companion animals, animals in factory farming and the entertainment business. Their criminal justice program works with law enforcement and prosecutors to seek maximum penalties for those convicted of animal abuse. It also works to strengthen and improve animal protection laws. Their animal law program works with student groups and law professors to expand the field of animal law in law schools.

ALDF staff attorneys may bring suit themselves, or the organization may retain outside counsel. Their civil actions often include filing amicus curiae briefs arguing the case for "recognition of the bonds between humans and nonhuman animals." [1]

[edit] Grants

The ALDF awards grants to help attorneys proceed with cases, and provides expert testimony to facilitate the enactment of state laws that allow for damages for loss of companionship in cases involving the wrongful death or injury of a pet.

[edit] Notes

  1. ^ a b "Who We Are, What We Do", Animal Legal Defense Fund, retrieved August 21, 2006.

[edit] External links

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