How to Find a Lawyer for Your Dog Bite or Dog Attack Case

Many victims believe it’s easy to find an effective dog bite lawyer in SoCal, mostly because the average dog bite insurance settlement amount has almost doubled since 2015. Therefore, many current victims have seen press reports of eye-popping dog bite settlements and believe this money is there for the taking.

However, that’s not the case. A number of legal defenses are available, even in a strict liability state like California. Skilled insurance company lawyers use these defenses to reduce settlement amounts or even deny compensation altogether. More on that below.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack in the Golden State, finding the right attorney can make a major difference in the outcome of the case. This guide explains how to find a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer for your dog bite or dog attack case in California, what to look for, and how to maximize your compensation.

Understanding California Dog Bite Laws

California Civil Code Section 3342 features one of the nation’s broadest strict liability laws. Dog owners are typically responsible for injuries their animal causes, even if the dog has never shown aggression before or the owner took preventative measures.

However, this broad law is often a two-edged sword. Many pet owner jurors believe the strict liability law unfairly penalizes diligent owners who have a momentary lapse or compassionate owners who try to provide good homes for animals with troubled pasts.

Furthermore, the provocation defense could apply in strict liability cases. Owners are not responsible for injuries if the victim provoked the animal. In California, provocation is a complete defense that torpedoes a liability claim.

Why You Need a California Dog Bite Lawyer

Hard work offsets insurance company defenses and helps the broad strict liability law work for victims instead of against them. So, the best Los Angeles dog bite lawyer:

• Investigates the Attack:

  Depending on the circumstances, other legal claims, such as scienter (knowledge) may be available. If the owner knew the animal was potentially vicious and failed to take proper precautions, even pet owner jurors are unsympathetic.

• Gather Medical Evidence:

  Privacy laws and other red tape often prevents victims from obtaining medical records. But a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer quickly cuts this red tape. Additionally, lawyers know how to present medical bills in court, maximizing their effect on the case.

• Identify Liable Parties:

  Third-party liability could apply in dog bite cases. For example, landlords could be responsible for dangerous dog bites in some cases. Furthermore, employers (like daycares) are financially responsible for damages if their employees (like daycare teachers) are negligent during the course and scope of employment.

• Negotiate with Insurance Companies:

  Almost all personal injury matters settle out of court, another fact which gives some victims a false sense of security. Only an experienced and dedicated lawyer knows how to leverage evidence and legal theories to maximize outcomes.

• File a Lawsuit:

  If necessary, a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer is ready, willing, and able to go to court for you. Attorneys know all the complex laws, as mentioned above. Lawyers are also familiar with all judicial procedural rules, including the unwritten rules of court.

Insurance adjusters often try to reduce settlements by arguing comparative fault or downplaying injuries. A knowledgeable California dog attack lawyer understands these tactics and knows how to counter them.

How to Find a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer

Partnering with a lawyer is a process, not a result. This process takes time, but the investment usually pays off in the form of a larger settlement.

Initial Search for a California Dog Bite Lawyer

To start their search for the right SoCal lawyer to handle a case, most people use targeted internet searches, such as:

• “California dog bite lawyer,”
• “Los Angeles dog attack attorney,”
• “Riverside animal attack lawyer,”
• “San Diego dog bite injury lawyer,” or
• “Personal injury lawyer for dog bites in California”

Focus on attorneys who clearly list dog bite cases as a primary practice area, not just general personal injury. Dog bites are a special branch of premises liability law that’s much different from vehicle collisions or even other premises liability matters, such as slip-and-fall cases.

Other victims use online referral sites. Trusted platforms that can help you find qualified attorneys include:

• Avvo,
• Super Lawyers, and
• Martindale-Hubbell.

These sites provide ratings, peer reviews, disciplinary history, and client feedback. However, beware that many of these platforms are paid sites. So, any attorney with a valid credit card could be a Super Lawyer.

Narrowing the Field

Once you identify potential lawyers in your area, do a little follow-up research by examining client testimonials and case results.

Client testimonials offer insight into a lawyer’s communication skills, work ethic, legal expertise, and compassion toward injury victims. However, beware that many website reviews are paid reviews.

Also look for a track record of success. Prior performance does not guarantee future results. But prior performance does indicate that a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer uses proven methods to obtain good results. A large settlement is a function of the process, not simply a matter fo good luck.

Finally, during your initial consultation, ensure that the lawyer has a vision for your case and you feel comfortable with the relationship. Lawyers who visualize results often obtain those results. Additionally, the best lawyer-client relationships are partnerships. Partners must work closely together to achieve the best possible outcome.

The best lawyer makes all the difference. For a free consultation with an experienced dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles, contact the Law Offices of Eslamboly Hakim. Virtual, home, and hospital visits are available.