Animal Law Podcast #45: The Case For Counting Our Chickens

On this episode of the Animal Law Podcast I speak to Christopher Berry of the Animal Legal Defense Fund about ALDF vs. The Food and Drug Administration, an unusual and years-long Freedom of Information Act case involving attempts to obtain information about egg-laying hens in Texas. This case went to a full-blown trial, took up hundreds of attorney hours, and changed the standard of review for FOIA cases. Christopher talks to us about the unusual Texas law that led to the initial FOIA request, the unique challenges that this case posed, and what it could mean for the future of FOIA.

Christopher Berry is a senior staff attorney in the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s litigation program where he develops and litigates strategic impact cases affecting a broad range of animal protection issues including captive wildlife, companion animals, animals in research, and factory farms. His work on behalf of animals spans many areas of law and includes all stages of litigation including motion practice, trials, and appeals. As an undergraduate at the University of South Dakota, he authored an honors thesis arguing that invasive medical testing on animals violates fundamental principles of bioethics. Chris graduated from the law school at the University of Michigan Law School in 2011, and began working immediately afterward for the Animal Legal Defense Fund. 

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