California Dog Bite Lawyer

California Civil Code section 3342 generally makes a dog owner liable for bite injuries suffered in public or while lawfully on private property, even without a prior bite. Exceptions and defenses can affect a claim. Injuries from a knockdown or other incident without a bite may require a different legal analysis.

See California Civil Jury Instruction 463. We review ownership, location, what happened, and the evidence connecting the bite to the harm.

Medical records help document the injury, treatment, and expected recovery. A claim may involve scarring, nerve injury, loss of function, emotional distress, or other effects supported by medical evidence. Tell your treating provider about ongoing symptoms and keep follow-up records.

Preserve dated photographs as the injury heals, bills, receipts, and documentation of missed work. Future treatment and lasting limitations need individual evaluation. No lawyer can promise a particular settlement amount.

Obtain the owner’s name and contact information, witness details, photographs of the location, and any animal-control or incident report. Preserve messages with the owner or insurer and available video. Do not put yourself at risk trying to obtain evidence.

Homeowners, renters, or other liability insurance may be relevant, but exclusions and limits must be reviewed. We can investigate available coverage and address disputes about how the incident happened or the extent of the injury.

During a free consultation, we discuss the incident, the available records, and your main concerns. You do not need to have every document before contacting us. We can identify missing information and explain the next steps.

We provide direct attorney communication in English or Spanish. Ask how we can work with you if you live outside Los Angeles. Fees and case costs are explained in the written agreement before representation.