The Center was spearheaded by David Braff, a graduate of Cleveland State University’s Criminal Justice Program and The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law.  He serves as Of Counsel with Sullivan and Cromwell in New York City, where he has practiced for nearly four decades.  Braff joined the Animal Legal Defense Fund board in 2021. He has always been particularly interested in animal welfare, stemming from his family’s love for dogs and horses and time spent on their 30-acre farm in Pennsylvania.

“The unjust treatment of animals—whether domestic animals, farmed animals raised for food, or wildlife—has proliferated and has been exacerbated by the climate crisis,” explained Braff.  Having practiced law for 40 years, I know first hand the power of the law and our legal system to bring about justice and lasting change. And through my involvement with the Animal Legal Defense Fund, I have seen time and time again how the legal system can bring about lasting justice for animals.”

The work of the Animal Law Clinic, which will serve as a tentpole of the Center, will be wide-ranging, with a focus on justice for animals, including the prosecution of domestic animal abuse cases; curbing puppy mills, dog fighting and roadside circus abuses; and fighting against wildlife, exotic and farmed animal abuses.

“Students will receive practical, hands-on training on being effective advocates for the humane and ethical treatment of animals,” explained Senior Clinical Professor of Law Carole O. Heyward, who will serve as the Center’s Faculty Director.  “They will learn about and engage in a variety of advocacy efforts including litigation, legislative and regulatory initiatives, and community education and outreach.”

For more information on the Center, Contact the Center's Faculty Director Carole Heyward: