Three Oregon farming groups have partnered to file a legal brief opposing a lawsuit brought on behalf of a horse against its former owner. The group’s Amicus or Friend of the Court Brief argues that the suit would change the rights of animals and their owners there.

Last year, an owner surrendered a Quarter Horse now named Justice to a rescue organization. The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) later filed a personal injury complaint against the former owner on the behalf of the horse seeking $100,000 on grounds that months of neglect caused permanent injuries that will require specialized medical care for the rest of his life.

Washington County Circuit court Pro Tem Judge John S. Knowles later dismissed the case on grounds that Justice lacked the legal status or qualification needed to assert legal rights under the law.
The Animal Legal Defense Fund appealed that decision to the Oregon Court of Appeals.

Last month the Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB), the Oregon Cattleman’s Association, and the Oregon Dairy Farmers Association partnered in a Friend of the Court brief opposing the appeal. A Friend of the Court brief or Amicus Curiae is generally brought by a person or group who is not a party to a lawsuit but has a strong interest in the matter. Filed with the court’s permission, the brief is an attempt to influence the court’s decision