Legal Advocacy
SCI is one of very few hunting conservation organizations with in-house legal counsel focused specifically on advocating for hunting rights and sustainable use conservation.
SCI has litigated more than 50 cases in the last decade and filed eight briefs in the U.S. Supreme Court. Our cases involve species from elk to elephants and rabbits to rhinos. We routinely engage to protect access to hunting opportunities. While some of our cases involve international issues, the vast majority protect hunting areas, species, and methods of harvest in the United States. SCI often works closely with state wildlife management agencies, and participates in litigation jointly with like-minded organizations.
In addition to litigation, SCI works through the federal and state regulatory process to encourage actions that benefit hunting and wildlife conservation. Our attorneys submit comments in response to public input opportunities regarding federal and state regulations, policies, and resource management plans. They also coordinate with SCI’s federal and state advocacy teams to review and draft bills that affect hunting and public access.
SCI is also one of very few providers of a sustainable use-focused Wildlife Law Continuing Legal Education (CLE) program. Each year at SCI’s Convention, SCI attorneys and guest presenters discuss issues of hunting, firearms, and conservation law. Our annual course typically provides four total CLE credit hours, including one hour of legal ethics. The course is regularly co-sponsored by local Bar Associations and is regularly accredited in numerous states. Attorneys can attend both in-person and via live-stream.
For more information about SCI’s legal advocacy or Wildlife Law CLE, email SCI’s attorneys at [email protected].
