Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

The Prindle Post

Publication Date

1-16-2019

Abstract

In most states, pets are viewed as personal property in the eyes of the law. Last year, California shook up the status quo by passing Assembly Bill 2274, which was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown in September. The law will allow judges in divorce cases to make more nuanced decisions when it comes to animal custody. Prior to the passing of the bill, courts were required to divide community property roughly equally. Judges now have the flexibility to consider factors like which of the parties in the relationship provides care to the pet in the form of walking, feeding, accessing veterinary services, and providing shelter and protection. Pleased pet owners in California claim that, in passing this law, California has rightly recognized companion animals as members of the family.

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