A proposed bill moving in Trenton would allow judges to appoint lawyers or law students who volunteer to represent animals' interest in some criminal cases.
People accused of animal cruelty could be forced to pay a bond up front to cover a shelter's costs of care under a bill now awaiting final votes in Trenton.
"New Jersey is particularly susceptible to invasive species because of our proximity to New York City and Philadelphia," said Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling.