How Much Does a Dog Bite Attorney Cost?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States. Fortunately, there are attorneys specializing in dog bite cases who typically work on a contingency fee basis only getting paid if you win. They generally take about 33-49% of the settlement amount. Since each state has its own time limits for filing a claim, legal advice should be sought as soon as possible. For instance, in Nevada, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file. Moving fast ensures you don’t miss out on your chance to seek compensation.

How Do I Pay for a Dog Bite Attorney?

In most cases, attorneys handling dog bite cases work on a contingency fee basis. They only get paid if they win your case, taking a portion of the final settlement or judgment. Although negotiable, typically contingency fees will be between 33% and 50% of the recovery depending on if a lawsuit or an appeal is filed. You won't owe any legal fees if you don’t win the case. Plus, initial consultations are always free, allowing you to discuss your situation without any financial pressure. 

To benefit from the services of a dog bite attorney, it is necessary to understand how they charge.

No Win, No Fee

This is the most common setup. Your attorney only gets paid if they win your case. They’ll take a percentage of the final settlement or court award. You won't owe your attorney a dime if you don't win the case. It’s a way to make sure everyone, no matter their financial situation, can seek legal help. 

A Percentage of Special Damages

If punitive damages are awarded (though rare), the attorney’s fee will usually be calculated based on a percentage of these damages in addition to the fee from other compensatory damages.

Remember, the fee arrangement you choose will affect how much you end up paying for legal help. It’s vital to have a clear discussion with potential attorneys about fees so you fully understand how it works. This way, you can move forward with confidence in your attorney-client relationship.

Is It Worth It to Hire an Attorney?

When seeking compensation after a dog bite, having an attorney on your side is a game-changer. Yes, it comes with a cost, but their expertise is priceless. They’re like your legal compass, ensuring you go after all the compensation you’re entitled to. They’re skilled negotiators, and if push comes to shove, they’ll fight for you in court. This significantly boosts your chances of a fair deal. With them in your corner, you’ll confidently tackle the legal process, ensuring you get the full compensation you deserve after a dog bite.

Initiate a Homeowners Insurance Claim

Contact the dog owner’s home insurance company to kickstart the claims process. Make sure to furnish comprehensive details about the incident, including the location, circumstances, and any contributing factors. Additionally, provide thorough information about your injuries, detailing the type and extent of medical treatment required. Usually, you’ll want your attorney’s office doing this for you so you do not permit the insurance company an opportunity to spin the facts you share with them. If at all possible avoid speaking directly to the insurance company and have your attorney contact them for you. This step is crucial in establishing the foundation for your claim and ensuring that all pertinent information is on record with the insurance provider. It lays the groundwork for further discussions and negotiations regarding compensation for the damages incurred due to the dog bite. 

Seek Guidance from a Personal Injury Attorney

This step holds paramount importance. Engaging an experienced attorney is essential in gaining access to expert advice on your legal rights and available courses of action. They play a pivotal role in not only gathering vital evidence but also adeptly steering you through the intricacies of the legal process. Their expertise ensures that every aspect of your dog bite claim is meticulously addressed, significantly enhancing your prospects of obtaining fair compensation for the damages you’ve incurred. Their support and knowledge become invaluable assets in pursuing justice and restitution.

Expertise.com Legal Directory

Personal injury claims, from auto accidents to dog bites, are filed daily in the United States. In most cases, those claims will be handled by a personal injury lawyer. Using this directory from Expertise.com, you will find more information about how a personal injury attorney can assist you in receiving compensation.