Pets and Divorce: Looking at the Best Interest of the Animal

Join the Honorable Matthew Cooper and Ms. Debra Hamilton in an insightful exploration of the intersection between pets and divorce. This CLE will delve into the historical trajectory of case law culminating in the pivotal Domestic Relations Law changes in 2021 mandating judges to utilize the Best Interest standard in determining the fate of family pets amidst divorce proceedings. The discussion will revolve around the practical application of the legislation. How are judges implementing the Best Interest standard in practice? The conversation will address the nuanced concept of defining Best Interest and the broader implications thereof. Judge Cooper will offer valuable insights, reflecting upon the case of Travis v. Murray. Complementing this legal perspective, Ms. Hamilton will present innovative approaches to facilitate resolution in contentious pet-related conflicts. She will advocate for the integration of mediation as a constructive tool for disputing parties to collaboratively discern the optimal Best Interests for their beloved pets. Don’t miss this compelling discussion at the intersection of law, compassion, and pet welfare, as Judge Cooper and Ms. Hamilton illuminate the path towards equitable resolutions in the challenging realm of pets and divorce.

Program Fee:
$50 for Members | $100 for Nonmembers

Hon. Matthew Cooper
New York State Supreme Court Justice (retired)

Ms. Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton
Hamilton Law and Mediation, LLC

12:30 pm – 12:35 pm
Overview and Introductions

12:35 pm – 12:45 pm
History of pets as property
Instructors will provide short education on how pets have historically been treated under the law in divorce

12:45 pm – 12:55 pm
Caselaw leading up to Travis v. Murray
Judge Cooper will share his experience pre and post Travis

12:55 pm – 1:05 pm
How DRL § 236 [B] [5] [d] [15] evolved
Instructors will cover how the legislation was created and passed.

1:05 pm – 1:20 pm
Implementation of the law
Discussion on the case laws created as the best interest standard is applied

1:20 pm – 1:30 pm
What may need to be done for uniformity?

1:30 pm – 1:45 pm
Discussion on use of alternatives such as ADR

1:45 pm – 1:55 pm
Future of the Domestic Relations Law on Pets

1:55 pm – 2:00 pm
Q&A

New York: 1.5 Professional Practice
New Jersey: 1.7 General
California: 1.5 General
Pennsylvania: 1.0 General
Connecticut: Available to Licensed Attorneys

Sponsoring Association Committees:
Senior Lawyers, Diane Fener and Jean Bleich, Co-Chairs
Matrimonial, Michael David Stutman, Chair
Small Law Firm, Adam N. Weissman, Chair

Co-Sponsored by:
Small Law Firm Center

Sponsorship Opportunities are Available! Please Contact:
Yelena Balashchenko, Manager, Business Development & Sponsorships | (212) 382-6608 | ybalashchenko@nycbar.org