If legal pro bono isn’t for people, then what is it for? Associate Professor Margaret Kwoka of the University of Denver’s Sturm College of Law engages in legal pro bono – for animals! [1] Professor Kwoka is well-known and loved for her volunteerism spanning several practice areas of the legal field. Representing animals in court isn’t a new practice, and is one that Professor Kwoka and others like her engage in as part of their pro bono work.
The large-hearted professor won an award in excellence for her exemplary work in legal pro bono for animals on behalf of the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF). She received the award on September 8th 2018 at the Justice for Animals Gala hosted by the ALDF, in Los Angeles. [2] The Gala was a celebratory event marking 39 years of providing justice for animals across the United States. Throughout the event, the ALDF’s mission was reiterated – to be a voice for animals in a justice system that views them as property and not lives.
Achievements and milestones of 2018 were presented at the gala. These included successful representation of animals in cases against people and organizations that caused them harm. Cases like Justice the Horse’s, rehoming of animals at Deer Haven Mini Zoo in Maryland, and similar stories shared the spotlight. The ALDF works hard to provide a voice for the voiceless, and is proud to serve the legal community on behalf of the animals they represent.
Funds raised during the event go directly towards the advancement of animal lives, and help the ALDF continue their exemplary legal pro bono work. The third annual gala highlighted and honored the ALDF, their work, and their mission to continue protecting animals.
Links
- https://www.law.du.edu/faculty-staff/margaret-kwoka
- https://aldf.org/article/justice-for-animals-gala-2018/
- https://www.law.du.edu/news/09272018/associate-professor-margaret-kwoka-receives-aldf-pro-bono-achievement-award
