Blogs

Sept 10 event - Pets in Protective orders: using the new law to protect both pets and people

By Kara Holmquist posted Tue August 27,2013 02:34 PM

  
Last October, a new law took effect that allows courts to order the protection of an animal through existing statutes that authorize restraining orders or orders to vacate or stay away. The link between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented in both study statistics and stories of abuse; the new law will be another tool to provide protection for both human and animal victims of domestic violence.

On September 10, the Animal Law Practice Group will host a meeting to discuss the implementation of this new law and its importance. Please see the meeting notice and RSVP here. Attendees will hear from a variety of speakers to learn about the link between animal abuse and domestic violence, the new law that allows pets to be included in protective orders, how the law has been applied so far and practical and practice tips for cases that involve pets.

Batterers abuse animals for a variety of reasons - to demonstrate power and control, to retaliate for acts of independence, to keep a victim silent and to coerce a victim to return or stay in an abusive relationship. Fear for the welfare of a household pet often prevents people who are battered from escaping abusive relationships. One study found that up to 48% of battered women will not leave, or will return to a violent relationship due to fear of what might happen to the animal if left behind. Another found that 71% of pet-owning women entering women’s shelters reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims.

This law, found in sections within Chapter 193 of the Acts of 2012 provides one more mechanism to help break this cycle of violence and remove a barrier that can prevent a victim from seeking protection and leaving a violent situation. Massachusetts is the 23rd state to enact such a law.  Join us on September 10th to learn more!

0 comments
21 views