IL SB1442

Courts may appoint a special advocate on their own motion or upon motion of any party in prosecutions involving animal injury, health, or safety.

Special advocates assist the court and represent the interests of justice regarding the animal's health or safety.

Department of Agriculture shall compile a list of pro bono attorneys and law students from each county to serve as special advocates in animal cases.

Law students serving as special advocates must be licensed under Supreme Court Rule 711 or attached to a legal aid bureau, program, organization, or clinic approved by an ABA-accredited law school.

Courts may consult the Department of Agriculture's compiled list when appointing special advocates in animal prosecution cases.