MI HB4300

Courts may appoint volunteer advocates to represent animal interests in criminal prosecutions involving animal treatment, welfare, or custody under Michigan law, either on the court's own motion or request of any party

Volunteer advocates can monitor cases, review records from animal control officers, veterinarians, or police, attend hearings, recommend expert testimony, make animal placement recommendations, and present victim impact statements on behalf of animals

Advocates must be licensed attorneys with knowledge of animal issues or law students enrolled in ABA-accredited law school clinical programs in Michigan, selected from a list maintained by the State Bar of Michigan

All volunteer advocates must complete State Bar-approved training before serving, and law students must comply with Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct

Advocates serve without monetary payment from the court but may receive pro bono credit hours or law school credit; the law takes effect 90 days after enactment