IL HB3367

Courts may appoint a licensed attorney or law student (authorized under Supreme Court Rule 711) as a special advocate in criminal cases involving the injury, health, or safety of a cat or dog

Special advocates would represent the interests of justice regarding the animal's health or safety, with appointments made on the court's own motion or by motion of any party

Advocates may monitor cases, consult with relevant persons, review records from animal control officers, veterinarians, and police, attend hearings, and present information or recommendations to the court

Recommendations presented to the court must be based solely on duties undertaken in the advocate role

The bill explicitly states it does not alter the legal status of animals as a unique class of personal property