Animal Law Society

The Animal Law Society is a student chapter of the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF)

About ALDF

For nearly a quarter-century, ALDF has been pushing the U.S. legal system to end the suffering of abused animals. Founded by attorneys active in shaping the emerging field of animal law, ALDF has blazed the trail for stronger enforcement of anti-cruelty laws and more humane treatment of animals in every corner of American life. Today, ALDF’s groundbreaking efforts are supported by hundreds of dedicated attorneys and more than 100,000 members.  For more information visit www.aldf.org.

Our Mission

ALS is dedicated to providing a forum for education, advocacy, and scholarship aimed at protecting the lives and advancing the interests of animals through the legal system, and raising the profile of the field of animal law.

Our Purpose

The activities of ALS include: hosting speakers, debates, and conferences on current issues in animal law; carrying out research projects for lawyers and organizations involved in animal-related litigation; networking with students at other law schools who are pursuing interests in animal law; volunteering time with animal charities in the community; and conducting educational events on campus.

Accomplishments

• ALS was instrumental in gaining approval for Chapman’s first Animal Law class
• ALS has hosted several speakers at Chapman, including: Howard Lyman, the "Mad Cowboy" (www.madcowboy.com), Robert Newman, a local animal law practitioner, and Ruben Newman, a very talented and philanthropic Chihuahua  (www.theanimallawyer.com), Joyce Tischler, the founder of ALDF, and many more
• ALS represented has represented Chapman at numerous animal law conferences and advocacy competitions including the 2005 National Animal Advocacy Competitions at Harvard.
• ALS arranged for training for the Santa Ana Police Department Animal Services Unit – "How to Build Strong Cases for Prosecutors"
• ALS represented Chapman at the Legislative Lobbying and Drafting Competition at GWU – Washington, D.C.

Events

ALS hosts barbecues, speakers, lunches and Bar Reviews, and sponsors the popular Pet Photo Contest. Watch for details at this site, as well as the general calendar at the law school's home page at www.chapman.edu/law.