This is not just for criminal matters and it is mentioned in two Constitutional amendments demonstrating its importance. A hearing is a time to effectively contest, disprove or justify the allegations of bad behavior against you and your dog. He founded a general practice law firm in 2007 and sold it in 2014 so he could focus on defending companion animals. While he still handles some civil litigation outside of pets, each day his practice becomes more and more about what he loves to do.