Effective Use and Understanding of MCA 27-1-434 "Cost of Care of Animals Seized in Animal Cruelty and Animal Fighting Cases"

Pending 2.0 General CLE

Speaker One: William Rideg:

William completed his undergraduate and graduate work at the University of Montana, earning a Bachelor of Science, as well as a Masters of Science degree. William studied law and graduated from the University of Montana School of Law, and is a proud member of the Montana State Bar Association, the Western Montana Bar Association, and the Montana Trial Lawyers Association.

William also serves on the Board of several Missoula area organizations, including Animeals, The Humane Society of Western Montana Legislative Committee, Footloose Montana, and The Nine Mile Wildlife Workgroup. William opened Rideg Law Office in 2011 in Missoula to serve the needs of Missoula area residents.

Speaker Two: Marta Pierpoint:

Attorney (not licensed in Montana) and Executive Director of The Humane Society of Western Montana . Marta is a frequent speaker on topics pertaining to nonprofit leadership and modern animal welfare practices. In 1998, she joined the Humane Society of Western Montana as a member and supported the mission in a variety of roles from foster to board chair and now Executive Director. She works closely with the HSWM's legislative committee and was instrumental in the passing of this specific Cost of Care legislation.

Mr. Rideg and Ms. Pierpoint will first discuss the recent legislative history on the "Cost of Care" statute. They will discuss the purpose of the statute and its effective use in connection with the prosecution of animal cruelty and abuse/animal fighting cases. A copy of the statute will be provided to attendees prior to the CLE. The speakers may add additional materials prior to their presentation.