Proposed New Jersey Bill Would Allow For Abused Pets To Have Their Own Lawyers

The state of New Jersey recently proposed a bill that would allow judges to appoint lawyers for animals. This aims to improve courts’ ability to protect victims of animal cruelty.

Most states in the U.S. have laws that prohibit animal cruelty. So far, this is only for animals that are considered pets. Unfortunately, the victims aren’t well represented in courtrooms. In these types of cases, the prosecutor is focused on proving that the perpetrator is guilty, and on getting them sentenced. Generally, the well-being of the victim is overlooked. Because of the flaws in the system, abused animals end up in shelters for months waiting for the trial to end.

In light of this issue, New Jersey is debating whether to adopt a Courtroom Animal Advocate Program. Presently, only Connecticut and Maine have this kind of program. The CAAP Is modeled after the one in Connecticut. It would allow volunteer attorneys or third-year law students to represent the victim in court. They would have the role of a liaison who would have to keep the court informed on the health and living conditions of the victim. This is supposed to Prevent animals from being stuck in shelters for the duration of the trial.

The bill is so popular that it passed unanimously in the Senate. At the present, it’s awaiting an Assembly vote before it can become law. if it passes, New Jersey would become the 3rd state that’s trying to make courts fairer for animals. Hopefully, this will serve as an example for every state.