FL S0172

Creates section 828.035 of Florida Statutes to allow courts to appoint advocates to represent the interests of animals in prosecutions, civil proceedings, and cases involving animal welfare, care, or custody.

Advocates must be attorneys or certified legal interns from a list maintained by The Florida Bar's Animal Law Section and must complete required training to be eligible.

Advocates have duties including monitoring cases, accessing relevant documents, sharing information with parties, and presenting recommendations to the court based on their knowledge or specialist expertise.

Advocates may consult with knowledgeable individuals, review records from animal control officers and veterinarians, attend hearings, and provide victim impact statements to the court.

The decision to appoint or remove an advocate remains at the court's discretion and can be made at any stage of proceedings; advocates must follow Florida Bar rules of professional conduct.