Wisconsin judge to consider blocking pending wolf hunt
As reported by this blog, a recent lawsuit was filed against the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by a coalition of animal rights activists, including the Wisconsin Federated Humane Societies and the National Wolfwatcher Coalition. The lawsuit seeks a court injunction to halt the DNR from issuing permits for an upcoming wolf hunt.
In addition, the plaintiffs want the rules for the hunt to be revised. According to the New York Times, they want it made clear that dogs should not be used to physically confront wolves and only to track or trail the animals. This should be done by using leashes and requiring owners to train their dogs as well as restricting them to use only non-confrontational breeds. The current legislation does not stipulate these mandates.
"With this lack of regulation means practically is that dogs can be used in training and in hunting to come into a direct physical confrontation with wolves," said Jodi Sinykin, one of the plaintiff's lawyers.
According to the Associated Press, a judge in Dane County is expected to consider whether to halt the state's wolf hunt before it starts within this week. Judge Peter Anderson heard the motions for the case on Monday, August 27, and will hold an injunction hearing on Wednesday, August 29.
The hunt is expected to begin on October 15 and continue through the end of February.
As with all litigations, the use of deposition transcripts is extremely important to ensure that all parties have the most accurate information possible about what may have been said. In order for lawyers or judges in this case, as with any other in the area, to use the best transcripts, they may want to partner with Wisconsin court reporters who can record in real-time and offer video deposition services.
