Ten Fundamental Legal Terms and Concepts That Are Useful in Understanding Laboratory Animal Law Across Nations

Almost all researchers, veterinarians, technicians, and students who work with laboratory animals are familiar with the laws, regulations, and policies governing the use of animals in their jurisdictions. This knowledge can be learned in an academic setting, but is often gained by "on the job" training conducted by facilities and institutions where these professionals work. In addition, these laws and regulations exist along a continuum; some countries have detailed and expansive animal law regimes, while others have few, if any laws. Accordingly, those who carry out research involving animals know local laws and regulations, but might not be aware of the laws, regulations, and policies of other jurisdictions.As scientific research becomes increasingly globalized, there is a growing need to gain an understanding of the laws and regulations of other countries. This article seeks to help bridge this gap in knowledge by defining 10 fundamental legal terms and concepts that are important in understanding the similarities and differences among the legal traditions of different nations and international agreements that impact laboratory animal research. The article focuses on Western law terms and concepts, because many laboratory animal statutes that have been enacted in these countries and international treaties and protocols can be viewed through a Western legal lens.