Legal Advocacy for Abused Animals: Connecticut's "Desmond's Law" as a Roadmap for Change in D.C.

"Desmond's Law" is an innovative piece of legislation that allows legal advocates to testify on behalf of animals in abuse and neglect cases. It is named after a shelter dog that was starved, beaten, and strangled to death in 2012. Despite a recommendation by the prosecutor for prison time, the man charged in the crime received accelerated rehabilitation, his charges were dismissed, and his record was wiped clean.

Join us for a discussion of Desmond's Law—and the lessons it offers for developing stronger legal protections for animals in the District—with its two architects, Professor Jessica Rubin of the UConn School of Law, and Representative Diana Urban of the Connecticut House of Representatives. We will also be joined by Kelly Whittier, Director of Communications for D.C. Councilmember Mary M. Cheh, who is attending on Cheh's behalf. GW Law Professor Joan E. Schaffner will act as moderator for the panel.

This luncheon program is sponsored by the Animal Law Committee of the D.C. Bar Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Community and the GW Law Chapter of  the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund. D.C. Bar membership is not required to attend. Doors open at 11:30 am.

Food is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration for this program is free and strongly encouraged. Please go to www.dcbar.org at the "Events" tab for more details.