Access to Justice for Animals

Professor Katie Sykes, Law, Thompson Rivers University
Gary Charbonneau, Vancouver filmmaker

Recorded on January 25, 2017

Animals have virtually no access to justice. Animals cannot sue anyone, and it is very difficult for organizations representing the interests of animals to access the justice system on their behalf. But there is a route for animal advocates to have a voice in the courtroom. Organizations or individuals who are not actually parties to cases – including, potentially, those who speak for the interests of animals – are sometimes allowed to participate as interveners, or friends of the court. Animal Justice Canada has used this opportunity and has been very active as an intervener in the last few years. Animal Justice has been a voice for animals in several important cases including one at Supreme Court of Canada (R. v. D.L.W.), as well as the British Columbia Court of Appeal case concerning Gary Charbonneau’s film Vancouver Aquarium Uncovered. This presentation will explore Mr. Charbonneau’s case, and how Animal Justice’s strategy is contributing to access to justice for animals.