About
The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) describes itself as the legal voice for all animals. Founded in 1979 by attorneys shaping the emerging field of animal law, the national 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 94-2681680) works to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system. It files high-impact lawsuits to protect animals from harm, provides free legal assistance and training to prosecutors in their fight against animal cruelty, supports animal protection legislation, and provides resources and opportunities to law students and professionals to advance the field of animal law.
Mission
ALDF's mission is to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system.
What they do
- File lawsuits to stop animal abuse and other high-impact litigation on behalf of animals
- Provide free legal assistance and training to prosecutors handling animal cruelty cases
- Work to strengthen state anti-cruelty statutes and support animal protection legislation
- Encourage federal enforcement of animal protection laws and engage in regulatory advocacy
- Support animal law education through law student chapters, resources, and programs
- Conduct public outreach through seminars and workshops
Its work spans focus areas including animals used in research, captive animals, companion animals, farmed animals, and wildlife, and addresses issues such as ag-gag laws, puppy mills, the fur industry, and animals' legal status.
History
The organization was founded in 1979 by attorneys active in shaping the emerging field of animal law, and it has spent nearly five decades using legal mechanisms to create change for animals.
Scale and impact
ALDF reports the support of thousands of dedicated attorneys and more than 300,000 members and supporters. Its strategies combine litigation, legislation, regulation, criminal justice support, legal education, advocacy, and collaboration.
Financials
Per IRS filings compiled by ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, the Animal Legal Defense Fund reported total revenue of $20,141,911 and total functional expenses of $17,763,139 for fiscal year 2023, with total assets of $22,129,250 at year end.
Governance and ratings
ALDF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in California (IRS exemption issued September 1980; ProPublica lists the organization in Sacramento, CA). It holds a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, is a Platinum-level GuideStar Exchange participant, is a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity, and has received the America's Best Charities Seal of Excellence.