Annual Animal Law Conference

The Annual Animal Law Conference stands as the nation's longest-running event dedicated to the field of animal law, a testament to its rich history that spans over four decades. This prestigious conference was initiated in 1982 by the Animal Legal Defense Fund in San Francisco, California, marking the beginning of an essential dialogue surrounding animal protection and legal advocacy.

The conference's evolution continued in 1993 when a passionate group of students from Lewis & Clark Law School organized a one-day symposium focused on wildlife issues, paving the way for what would become an annual tradition. This tradition rapidly grew into the Animal Law Conference at Lewis & Clark, one of the first academic gatherings in the nation dedicated to the subject of animal law.

With the establishment of the Center for Animal Law Studies (CALS) at Lewis & Clark in 2008 and the ongoing support from the Animal Legal Defense Fund, the conference transformed into a pivotal hub for legal scholars, advocates, practitioners, and students alike. In 2013, a significant partnership was formed when the Animal Legal Defense Fund and CALS joined forces to co-present the conference.

This collaboration significantly elevated the event's national profile, solidifying its status as the premier annual gathering in the realm of animal law. The Annual Animal Law Conference now alternates locations between Washington DC and other cities across the United States, ensuring that this vital conversation is accessible to a broader audience.

It continues to be a powerful meeting point for individuals dedicated to advancing legal protections for animals, reflecting its grassroots origins while embracing its current prominence.