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MI HB6024

Bill

Status

Introduced

10/15/2024

Primary Sponsor

Stephanie Young

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

102nd Legislature

AI Summary

  • Courts may appoint a volunteer advocate (licensed attorney or law student) to represent the interests of an animal in criminal prosecutions related to animal treatment, welfare, or custody under Michigan law.

  • Volunteer advocates can monitor cases, review records, attend hearings, coordinate expert testimony, recommend animal placement, and present victim impact statements on behalf of the animal.

  • The State Bar of Michigan must maintain a list of eligible attorneys and law schools with clinical programs willing to provide volunteer advocates for these cases.

  • Attorneys and law students must complete State Bar of Michigan-approved training before serving as volunteer advocates and are not compensated by the court, though may receive pro bono hours or law school credit.

  • The act takes effect 90 days after enactment, and court decisions to deny appointment of a volunteer advocate are not subject to appeal.

Legislative Description

Crimes: animals; appointment of a pro bono lawyer or law student to act as an animal advocate in animal cruelty and welfare cases; allow. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 50d.

Higher education: other

Last Action

Bill Electronically Reproduced 10/16/2024

10/16/2024

Committee Referrals

Criminal Justice10/15/2024

Full Bill Text

No bill text available