Laura Handzel joined the Center for Animal Law Studies (the Center) as the first-ever Animal Law Program Assistant. Prior to that, Laura freelanced at various law firms in Tucson, Arizona, while also focusing much of her time on grassroots animal rescue, humane education & other animal advocacy work.
Laura earned her J.D. from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, completing a Certificate of Special Training in Environmental Law & Policy Analysis. She is a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Arizona, earning degrees in anthropology and french, plus a minor in sociology. She was also fortunate to complete some of her studies at the University of Pau, France.
Laura grew up on a working farm in the Midwest and comes from a family of lawyers, fostering a passion for both environmental and animal law. Within the field of animal law, she has special interests in farmed animals, wildlife, the link between domestic violence and animal cruelty, breed discrimination, social justice, as well as public health and policy issues. Laura enjoys spending time outdoors, especially with friends and family, which include her four rescued companion animals.