Animal law is one of the nation’s fastest growing fields of study and practice. It plays an ever-increasing role in today’s society and influences our interactions with all animals.
The field is gaining respect and legitimacy, as evidenced by increased media attention; the development of animal law curricula and student organizations; the establishment of state and local bar committee sections focused on animal law; the enactment of new and stronger city, state, and federal animal welfare legislation; and the increase in animal law cases setting positive precedents for animals.
Each year, a growing number of students attend law schools hoping to pursue a career in, or related to, animal law. Unfortunately, the supply of information, administrative support, resources, and job opportunities have not kept pace with this student interest.
NCAL provides students and career guidance counselors
with helpful information about the field of animal law. Since animal law is not a traditional area of law, there are not established career paths. Everyone who works in animal law--fulltime, part-time, through pro bono efforts, or a combination--as professors, authors, lobbyists, policy analysts, attorneys, paralegals, board members, or staff members of nonprofits have forged their own path into the field. It may take some creativity, time, and
perseverance, but the animals need students to follow their hearts and find individual ways to contribute to advancing legal protections for animals.
The National Center for Animal law exists to help you find your way. Please contact the National Center for Animal Law for additional information, to provide feedback about this guide, or to let us know how we can further help you in your journey into the field of animal law.
