Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer

Dogs are often called “man’s best friend.” Unfortunately, this is not always the case. A well-trained dog can still bite under certain circumstances. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you may be able to pursue compensation under applicable law with the help of a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer from Jacoby and Meyers, capable of defending clients from any location within the state of California.

• Over 50 years of experience helping Californians, proven by real client testimonials.
• Recovered over $2 billion in settlements and verdicts, as shown in our case results. Results vary depending on the facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
• We don’t charge a fee unless we win your case. Many cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning attorney’s fees may depend on whether compensation is recovered; terms are explained during consultation.

A Legacy of Justice for Los Angeles

For over 50 years, Jacoby & Meyers has been the trusted legal advocate for the people of Los Angeles. Since 1972, our mission has been to protect the rights of the injured against powerful insurance companies and corporations. With more than $2 billion recovered for our clients,* we have the experience and resources to fight for you.

We handle serious personal injury cases, helping accident victims get the justice and compensation that will cover their total losses. We understand your challenges and are here to help.

Request a free, no-obligation consultation today and let us assess your case.

*Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Can I Afford a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer?

Many dog bite victims hesitate to hire an attorney because they fear the cost. You might worry that legal fees will eat up any compensation you receive, or that you can’t afford a retainer fee upfront. This hesitation often leads victims to accept quick, lowball settlements from insurance companies that barely cover their immediate medical bills, leaving them financially vulnerable when future complications arise.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay absolutely nothing out of pocket.
• We advance the necessary costs associated with building your case.
• We only get paid if we win your case. Attorney’s fees may depend on whether compensation is recovered; in many cases, if there is no recovery, attorney’s fees are not charged, and terms will be explained during consultation.

This model ensures that high-quality legal representation is accessible to everyone in Los Angeles, regardless of their financial situation.

Expert Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

Insurance adjusters often try to settle dog bite claims quickly, sometimes within days of the incident. They may offer what appears to be a fair amount for your emergency room visit. However, in California, once you sign a release of liability to accept that check, you typically can’t go back for more money later, even if you discover nerve damage or require plastic surgery months down the line. Never sign a settlement agreement without having a qualified attorney review the full scope of your future medical needs.

What To Do After a Dog Bite in Los Angeles

• Seek immediate medical attention: Even if the wound looks minor, the risk of infection is high. Go to an ER or urgent care to document the injury and start treatment.
• Identify the dog and owner: Get the owner’s name, contact information, and insurance details. If the owner isn’t present, try to get a description of the dog and where it lives.
• Document everything: Take photos of your injuries immediately, as well as the location where the attack happened.
• Report the incident: File a report with Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control or the local police department. This creates an official record.
• Gather witness information: If anyone saw the attack, get their names and phone numbers.
• Avoid recorded statements: Do not give a detailed statement to the dog owner’s insurance company without legal counsel.
• Preserve evidence: Keep the clothing you were wearing (unwashed) and save all medical records and receipts.
• Speak with a dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles: Contact a firm with specific experience in California dog bite statutes to understand your rights.

Common Causes of Dog Bite Incidents

While every attack is different, most stem from negligence or a failure to properly supervise an animal. In Los Angeles, where public spaces are crowded and residential areas are dense, these interactions happen frequently.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, here are some common reasons for dog bites:

• Stress. If the dog is in a stressful situation, it may bite people. Various situations can cause do stress, such as a vet visit or excessive noise.
• Startled. Dogs can also bite people when they are startled. If you try to play “got your nose” with your neighbor’s Doberman, or you jump out and yell “boo” at a beagle, it may bite you simply because it is stunned.
• Sickness. Dogs can also bite people if they are sick. Similar to humans, illness can agitate dogs. Their owner needs to keep them away from other people until they fully recover.
• Playing. A gentle bite is normal to experience when playing with dogs and cats. However, some dogs can bite too hard, whether intentionally or not.
• Lack of socialization or training. Dogs can lash out and bite people without the proper training.
• Trespassers. People entering another person’s property can end up with a dog bite. For example, if your child and his friends hit a baseball into the neighbor’s yard, and they go to retrieve it only to get injured by a dog, the homeowner may be liable under certain circumstances.

Common Injuries in Dog Attack Cases

In 2019 alone, there were 61 fatal dog attacks in the U.S., according to DogBites.org. Dog attacks can result in catastrophic physical damage. Large breeds can exert hundreds of pounds of pressure per square inch, crushing bone and tearing tissue.

• Traumatic brain injuries: Often caused when a victim is knocked to the ground.
• Spinal cord injuries: Resulting from falls or violent shaking during an attack.
• Broken bones: Fractures caused by the force of the bite or the impact of falling.
• Severe lacerations and puncture wounds: Deep wounds that carry a high risk of infection.
• Nerve damage: Bites that sever nerves can lead to permanent loss of sensation or function.
• Facial disfigurement: Scarring that may require multiple reconstructive surgeries.
• Psychological trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and phobias are common, particularly in children.

Who May Be Liable for Your Dog Bite Injuries?

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are generally responsible when their dog bites someone in a public place or when the victim is legally on private property. But in many cases, responsibility doesn’t stop with the owner. We look at every angle to make sure no liable party escapes accountability.

Possible liable parties may include:

• Dog owners: California is a strict liability state, meaning the owner is often responsible even if the dog has never bitten before.
• Landlords: If a landlord knew a tenant had a dangerous dog and failed to act, they may be held liable.
• Property owners and businesses: Owners who allow dangerous dogs on their premises may be responsible for unsafe conditions.
• Boarding facilities and dog daycares: Kennels or pet care companies may be liable if poor supervision or safety failures result in an attack.
• Government entities: If a police dog causes injury, special rules may apply, including shorter deadlines and immunity defenses.

Why Dog Bite Cases Can Be Legally Complex

Dog bite claims may sound simple, but insurance companies rarely treat them that way. Even in strict liability cases, the defense may look for ways to dispute liability or damages.

Common challenges include:

• More than one responsible party: The owner may not be the only one at fault; instead, landlords, businesses, or caretakers may also be involved.
• Insurance coverage disputes: Homeowners or renters policies may have exclusions, limitations, or coverage fights.
• Blame-shifting tactics: The defense may claim you “provoked” the dog or weren’t allowed to be on the property.
• Medical proof issues: Scarring, nerve damage, infection, and emotional trauma may require expert support to prove long-term impact.
• Evidence that disappears fast: Surveillance footage, animal control records, and witness memories can be lost if action isn’t taken quickly.

Dealing with a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially with legal and insurance challenges. Experienced dog bite attorneys provide crucial support, ensuring key evidence is preserved. They address blame-shifting tactics, challenge unfair insurance exclusions, and secure medical proof through trusted experts.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Damages You May Be Entitled To After a Dog Bite

A dog bite injury isn’t just a quick ER visit. It can leave scars, trauma, and lasting complications that affect how you feel, work, and live every day. At Jacoby & Meyers, we fight to pursue compensation based on the documented impact of your injuries.

Economic Damages (Financial Losses)

These cover the costs you can document, such as:

• Medical care: ER treatment, stitches, surgery, medication, and follow-up visits
• Future treatment: Scar revision, physical therapy, or counseling
• Lost income: Missed work while recovering
• Reduced earning ability: If the injury affects your job long-term
• Property damage: Torn clothing, broken glasses, damaged phones, and more

Non-Economic Damages (Human Impact)

These reflect the pain and emotional toll, including:

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and difficult recovery
• Emotional distress: Anxiety, PTSD, fear of dogs, and trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life: When you can’t do what you used to
• Permanent scarring or disability: Lasting disfigurement or reduced mobility

Dog bite injury lawyers play a crucial role in evaluating both economic and non-economic damages to ensure victims receive fair compensation. With their expertise, they thoroughly assess medical costs, emotional suffering, and long-term impacts to determine the full extent of losses.

California Statute of Limitations

In California, you generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you will lose your right to pursue compensation.

However, the timeline is much shorter if the liable party is a government entity, such as a city or county (for example, if the incident involved an animal control failure or a police dog). In these cases, you typically have only six months to file an administrative claim.

Because these deadlines are strict and evidence can disappear over time, it is vital to contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible after the incident.

Contact us today to start your case.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Dog Bite

After a dog bite, it’s easy to assume the process will be simple, especially in California, where dog owners are often held responsible under strict liability laws. But in reality, insurance companies rarely “just pay” what’s fair. They look for ways to protect their money, not your recovery.

Even when the bite is clearly serious, insurers may try to argue:

• You were trespassing or weren’t allowed to be on the property
• You provoked the dog (even unintentionally)
• Your injuries are “minor” or should heal without long-term impact
• Your scarring is “cosmetic” and not worth significant compensation

A dog bite can leave more than physical wounds. It can cause permanent scarring, nerve damage, infection risk, and emotional trauma, especially for children and families who no longer feel safe in their own neighborhood.

That’s where an experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorney makes a difference.

An attorney’s role in a dog bite case includes:

• Investigating what happened and identifying all liable parties (owner, landlord, property owner, etc.)
• Collecting time-sensitive evidence like photos, witness statements, animal control reports, and surveillance footage
• Handling all insurance communication so you don’t get pressured, blamed, or misquoted
• Working with medical experts to document scarring, nerve damage, infection complications, and long-term care needs
• Valuing your claim properly, including future treatment like scar revision or plastic surgery years down the road
• Negotiating aggressively for a settlement that reflects the full impact on your life
• Filing a lawsuit, if needed to protect your rights when the insurer refuses to be fair

Most importantly, a lawyer gives you breathing room, so while you focus on healing, someone else is focused on protecting your future.

How Jacoby & Meyers Builds Your Case

We approach every case with the preparation and seriousness required to win in court, even if we expect a settlement. This aggressive preparation signals to the insurance company that we are not afraid to go to trial.

1. Initial Case Evaluation: We listen to your story, assess the facts, and explain your legal options clearly.
2. Evidence Collection: Our investigators gather animal control records, police reports, witness statements, and video footage.
3. Damage Documentation: We work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries and future care needs.
4. Insurance Negotiations: We present a strong demand package to the insurer and handle all communication.
5. Litigation: If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and advocate for you in court.

How to Choose the Best Dog Bite Lawyer in Los Angeles

A dog bite can leave fear, trauma, scarring, and a recovery that takes far longer than anyone expects. Even though California law strongly protects dog bite victims, insurance companies often seek ways to minimize what they pay out. They may question how serious the bite was, argue you “provoked” the dog, or push for a quick settlement before you understand the full cost of your recovery.

The best dog bite injury lawyer Los Angeles offers will make sure your case is taken seriously from day one and built for the full value of what you’ve lost.

Here are the most important factors to look for:

Does the Lawyer Have Real Experience With Dog Bite Cases?

Dog bite claims aren’t always as simple as they sound. Serious bites can involve infection, nerve damage, scarring, and emotional distress that require strong medical documentation and careful legal strategy.

A skilled dog bite lawyer understands how to prove damages involving:

• Deep puncture wounds, lacerations, and infection risk
• Nerve damage, mobility limitations, and long-term complications
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement
• Plastic surgery or scar revision treatment
• Emotional trauma, anxiety, and PTSD
• Attacks involving children or multiple bites

At Jacoby & Meyers, we’ve spent decades representing injured Californians and have recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements, including serious injury claims involving permanent harm.

Is the Firm Respected and Trusted in the Legal Community?

In high-stakes injury cases, reputation matters. Recognition from peer-reviewed legal organizations can reflect credibility, professionalism, and consistent results.

Our attorneys have been recognized by respected organizations, reinforcing our commitment to strong, trusted advocacy.

Do They Understand Los Angeles–Specific Legal Challenges?

Local experience can make a meaningful difference in how a dog bite case is handled. A qualified Los Angeles attorney should understand:

• Local courts, judges, and filing procedures
• How California insurers defend dog bite claims
• Liability issues involving landlords, homeowners, and businesses
• Shorter deadlines if a government entity is involved (such as a police dog case)

With more than 50 years of experience serving Los Angeles and communities statewide, Jacoby & Meyers combines local insight with statewide resources.

Are They Prepared to Take Your Case to Trial If Necessary?

Dog bite injuries can be expensive and life-altering, and insurers know it. Some firms push quick settlements that don’t reflect the true long-term cost of scarring, future medical care, and emotional recovery.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we prepare every serious dog bite case as if it will be decided by a jury. That trial-ready approach strengthens your leverage in negotiations and helps protect your future if the insurance company refuses to be fair.

What to Bring to Your First Dog Bite Consultation

After a dog bite, feeling overwhelmed by pain and unexpected expenses is normal. You don’t need every detail perfectly organized to begin your recovery. Even basic information lets us start protecting your rights immediately and provide the guidance and support you need during this vulnerable time.

If you have them, bring:

• Medical paperwork (ER records, doctor notes, discharge forms, bills)
• Photos or videos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and any visible damage (torn clothing, blood, etc.)
• Any report filed (animal control report, incident report, or police report if applicable)
• Insurance information and any letters, emails, or messages from insurance adjusters
• Proof of lost income and out-of-pocket costs (prescriptions, bandages, follow-up care, transportation)
• Notes about what happened, including where the bite occurred, who owned the dog, and how the injury has affected your daily life

If you don’t have all of this yet, that’s completely okay. Our team can help gather records and fill in the missing pieces. What matters most is reaching out early, so we can preserve evidence, protect your options, and support your recovery.

Client Testimonials

We proudly stand by our clients, building relationships on trust and reliability. We are here to support you through your most challenging times.

“Jacoby and Meyers handled my case very well. They are, on the one hand, attending to all my needs from the first day of my injury, to the details of my car accident, and setting me up for my doctor’s appointment and therapy; they did a great job. Not to mention Jocelyn Cruz, who helped me a lot to get treatment for my recurring hip injury. I am so thankful to her and to all the staff who handled my case, Cole, who first took my report, and everyone else involved in my case.” Janet Atienza from Google Review

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

What Our Clients Have To Say

Case Results That Reflect Serious Injury Experience

A dog bite can cause lasting physical and emotional damage. For many victims, the injury isn’t “just a bite.” It can mean emergency treatment, infection risk, scarring, nerve damage, missed work, and trauma that changes how safe you feel in everyday life.

While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, our case history reflects Jacoby & Meyers’ ability to handle high-stakes injury claims involving permanent harm and serious recovery needs.

Examples of case studies and results include:

• $13 Million – Wrongful Death vs. City
• $3.25 Million – Wrongful Death Premises Liability
• $1 Million – Product Liability / Horseback Riding

For decades, Jacoby & Meyers has fought for injured Californians and recovered more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements across the state. These results have helped clients afford medical care, follow-up treatment, lost wages, and long-term support, resources that can be essential after a serious dog bite injury.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Dog Bite Attorney Near Me

Jacoby & Meyers provides statewide representation for victims of dog attack injuries. While our main office is in Los Angeles, we serve clients throughout Los Angeles County, including Long Beach, Santa Monica, Glendale, Santa Clarita, and Pomona, as well as across California.

With 14 offices statewide, we combine the resources of a large firm with the local insight you expect when searching for a dog bite attorney near me. Wherever your injury occurred, experienced legal representation is always within reach.

Offices and Service Areas Include:

• Los Angeles
• Orange County
• San Diego
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• Oakland
• Sacramento
• San Bernardino
• Ontario
• Bakersfield
• Fresno
• Escondido
• Brea

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the dog owner is a friend or family member?

This is a common scenario. Remember that you are typically filing a claim against their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, not taking money directly from their bank account. Most friends want you to get the medical care you need.

What if I were bitten while working?

If you were bitten while on the job (for example, as a delivery driver or utility worker), you may have a workers’ compensation claim in addition to a personal injury claim against the dog owner. This is known as a “third-party claim.”

How does comparative fault work in California?

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault (e.g., if you were partly responsible for provoking the dog). However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

Recovering damages can be more difficult if the owner is uninsured, but it is not impossible. We can investigate whether the owner has assets or whether another party (such as a landlord) shares liability.

How long does a dog bite case take to settle?

Every case is different. Simple claims with clear liability might settle in a few months. Cases involving severe injuries, disputed liability, or permanent disability can take longer to ensure all future medical costs are calculated correctly.

For more information, visit our FAQ page. 

Directory

Emergency Rooms

• Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
• Harbor-UCLA Medical Center– 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
• Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center– 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
• Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Urgent Care Centers

• Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
• First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd, Tujunga, CA 91042
• Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
• H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
• Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045

Local Courthouses

• Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Cienega, Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.

Get the Justice You Deserve

You don’t have to face the aftermath of a dog attack alone. At Jacoby & Meyers, we are dedicated to helping victims in Los Angeles put their lives back together. We offer compassionate support and aggressive representation to pursue compensation based on your circumstances.

Call us today for a free initial consultation. We are available 24/7 to take your call. Remember, many cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning attorney’s fees may depend on whether compensation is recovered; terms are explained during consultation.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Bicycle Accidents
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents