Veterinary medical law covers a wide array of legal practice areas that impact all members of the veterinary health care team. These include but are not limited to employment law, pharmacy law, corporate law, agriculture law, land use and zoning, licensure defense, malpractice defense, and tort law.
AVMLA puts information at the fingertips of veterinary healthcare teams, attorneys, legal professionals, non-profit leaders, and educational institutions about the business side of veterinary medicine and the legal impacts of veterinary legislation, educational requirements, animal research regulations, pharmaceutical requirements, the performance of veterinary procedures, animal welfare, shelter medicine, hospital management, and practice ownership and sales.
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The American Veterinary Medical Law Association (AVMLA) is a national association of attorneys, veterinarians, and legal professionals, veterinary healthcare team members, and other individuals and organizations with an interest in veterinary medical law and how it pertains to the veterinary and legal profession, and other allied industries. AVMLA was incorporated in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the following objectives:
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Provide information to members regarding pertinent issues in the field of veterinary medical law.
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Increase public awareness and understanding of the impact of the law on all aspects of veterinary medicine.
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Facilitate interactions among organizations, regulatory agencies and the courts for the benefit of society.
AVMLA MEMBER BENEFITS
AVMLA News Brief
The AVMLA publishes the bi-monthly AVMLA News Brief to keep members informed on legal issues in veterinary medicine and AVMLA activities. Only AVMLA members have access to the current Newsletter issue and archives. Click here for a sample issue.
AVMLA Webinars
The AVMLA hosts webinars on a myriad of topics relating to veterinary medical law. Most are eligible for approved CE and CLE credit. Check with your state regarding the acceptance of online CE credit.
Annual Conference
AVMLA hosts an annual meeting and continuing education seminar where members network and receive valuable information about new legal developments. This annual meeting meets in conjunction with AVMA’s annual meeting and is eligible for CLE credit.
Member List-Serv
Access to the AVMLA listserv which allows members to have peer dialogue with their colleagues on topics in the industry. Members are welcome to post questions, weigh in on discussions and receive feedback and assistance from members offering a national perspective and in-state, regional proximity.
The American Veterinary Medical Law Association's Member Directory is currently being compiled. This comprehensive listing of the AVMLA Members is a valuable tool for anyone seeking attorneys, veterinarians, and other individuals and organizations with an interest in veterinary medical law and allied fields. AVMLA Members in good standing receive a complimentary listing annually.
Advertising Opportunities
Promote your firm, clinic, event, industry related products or job opportunities in the AVMLA bi-monthly e-Newsletter!
Corporate sponsorship not only provides critical, sustaining financial support for the AVMLA Continuing Education programs, but it also gives your company a unique opportunity for widespread visibility to a market audience. The AVMLA works with corporations in a variety of sponsorship formats, including charitable special events and targeted campaign initiatives. Contact us about further possibilities.
Leadership
AVMLA 2024-2025 Officer Team
AVMLA President-Elect 2024-2025
Robert Simpson, DVM, JD
AVMLA Secretary/Treasurer
Mike Murphy DVM, JD, PhD
Director, Div of Animal & Public Health
Upcoming Events
AVMLA Monthly Member Meeting, held on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 8PM, ET.
Guests are welcome.
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Register for the upcoming AVMLA Monthly Member Meetings:​​​
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Nov. 26 @8pm ET- Teaching Regulatory/Legal Issues in Vet Med
Panel:
Lance Roasa, DVM, JD
Jim Wilson, DVM, JD
Rob Simpson, DVM, JD
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As veterinary professionals, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial not only for compliance but also for ensuring the welfare of animals and the safety of public health. We will discuss key topics such as the roles of various regulatory bodies, the importance of maintaining ethical standards, and the implications of legal cases that shape veterinary practices. By integrating real-world scenarios and case studies, we aim to equip current and future veterinarians with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of veterinary law and regulatory issues effectively. This knowledge is vital for fostering responsible practice and protecting the veterinary profession's integrity.
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July 19-20, 2025 - AVMLA Annual Meeting (in conjunction with AVMA) Washington, DC
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Attending the American Veterinary Medical Law Association's annual educational meeting in Washington, D.C., provides a unique opportunity to delve into the legal aspects of the business side of veterinary medicine. This gathering brings together industry professionals, legal experts, nonprofits, corporate partners, and veterinary healthcare team members to discuss the challenges and nuances of veterinary law as it pertains to business operations. Presentations cover a range of topics, including contracts, liability issues, regulatory compliance, and the intersection of veterinary practice with evolving regulations and state laws. This annual meeting not only enhances understanding of the legal landscape but also promotes networking and collaboration among peers, ultimately fostering a more informed and responsible veterinary community.
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Stay informed regarding issues of relevance and concern pertaining to:
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Practice Ownership
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State & Federal Regulatory Information
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Malpractice Issues
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Veterinary State Board Violations
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Personnel Concerns
Contact Us
Email: info@avmla.org
Tel: 202.449.9551 ext. 207
1750 K Street, NW, Ste. 710
Washington, DC 20006
Notice: The AVMLA does not provide legal or veterinary advice. Individuals with legal questions regarding their specific circumstances should contact an attorney in their state for assistance. Please, refer to the AVMLA member directory listed by state.