MI HB6029

Allows Michigan courts to appoint an advocate to represent the interests of animals or the interests of justice in criminal prosecutions related to animal treatment, welfare, or custody.

Advocates appointed under this law may monitor cases, consult with experts, attend hearings, recommend expert testimony, suggest animal placement, prepare victim impact statements on behalf of animals, and present relevant information to the court.

Establishes that advocates must be appointed from a list provided by animal welfare clinics located in Michigan, with the list including licensed attorneys with animal law knowledge and law schools with students interested in animal law.

Allows licensed attorneys and law students to serve as advocates on a voluntary basis, with law students subject to Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct.

Defines "animal" as any vertebrate other than a human and takes effect 90 days after enactment.