Animal Law Committee pursues section status.

The leadership of the Bar's Animal Law Committee has set its sights on becoming a section and is asking those interested in the field to show their interest in the formation of an Animal Law Section.

"This is an opportunity to make a real difference in animal law and with minimal effort," said Gil Panzer of Boca Raton, the committee's vice chair. "Section status is critical to engaging in a number of activities that committees are currently prohibited or restricted from pursuing, including, but not limited to, increasing publications and drafting and supporting legislation."

Panzer said becoming a section would provide those who practice animal law with another avenue in which to make a greater impact in the field.

"Animals are often treated as mere property under the law," he said. "This view is often criticized by Florida practitioners as outdated, both in the context of criminal and civil cases. A section can more easily support modifications or updates of current laws in this area."

The Animal Law Committee, established in 2004, monitors and informs members of the Bar and the public about developments in the field of animal law. The ALC is active in monitoring proposed legislation and holds an annual seminar addressing animal law issues, including how animal law impacts traditional legal practice areas. The ALC meets at least three times a year to share new information.

"The ALC brings together attorneys with different backgrounds and experiences in a variety of animal law issues," said Panzer.

To justify creating the new section, approximately 1 percent of Bar members must show an interest in the proposed section and be willing to pay estimated annual dues of $25 to join, he said.

Panzer said to measure the level of...