Last Updated on July 29, 2024 by Dogs Vets
Dog bites don’t happen only to strangers. According to the CDC, a dog that the victim knows, such as their own dog or a neighbor’s dog, is responsible for about 77% of dog bite cases. An estimated 4.5 million people experience dog bites every year, and roughly 30 to 50 people die from dog bites. Such cases often make victims hesitant to take legal action against someone they know.
Still, with the right lawyer acting as a buffer to prevent direct confrontations, victims can receive objective advice and professional handling of the case while maintaining relationships and seeking justice. In a dog bite claim, the average person can typically calculate some immediate economic damages, like hospital bills. But assessing non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, can be far more challenging.
According to dog bite lawyer Jordan H. Davidoff, consulting a seasoned attorney is always advisable if you want to recover the maximum compensation for your damages. An experienced attorney can help you accurately evaluate economic and non-economic damages to fully address and compensate for all aspects of your suffering.
But how do you make this critical decision? You can choose the right advocate in your corner by taking into account these factors.
Assessing the Lawyer’s Experience
An attorney’s experience can make a big difference in how your case turns out. Look for a lawyer specializing in dog bite cases, as they’ll have a deeper understanding of the laws and details surrounding these types of incidents. A lawyer with experience in this area will be better at handling your case, anticipating potential challenges, and strategizing effectively on your behalf.
Look at the number of cases the lawyer has successfully resolved. A track record of successful outcomes shows their ability to negotiate settlements, litigate in court and get favorable results for their clients. Feel free to ask about their past cases and inquire about the outcomes. This information can tell you a lot about the lawyer’s capabilities and the level of commitment they’ll bring to your dog bite case.
Evaluating Track Record of Success
Look into the number of cases the lawyer has dealt with and how many resulted in successful settlements or verdicts. A strong track record shows the lawyer’s ability to handle the complexities of dog bite cases and deliver positive results for their clients.
When evaluating a lawyer’s track record, pay attention to the types of cases they’ve worked on. If the lawyer has experience with various dog bite cases and has consistently achieved favorable outcomes, it shows their versatility and proficiency in handling different scenarios.
The size of settlements or verdicts the lawyer has won for their clients in dog bite cases should be considered. This can give you an idea of the lawyer’s skill in negotiating fair compensation and effectively advocating for their client’s rights. A lawyer with a history of securing big settlements may be better equipped to handle your case and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Reviewing Client Testimonials and Reviews
These testimonials can tell you a lot about the lawyer’s communication style, professionalism, and success rate in handling dog bite cases. Look for patterns in the feedback to get a sense of what it might be like to work with the lawyer. Client testimonials often show the specific strengths or weaknesses of a lawyer. Pay attention to comments about responsiveness, empathy, and the case outcome. Positive reviews that mention a lawyer’s dedication to their clients and their ability to secure fair compensation can be reassuring.
Negative reviews shouldn’t be ignored. If there are consistent complaints about a lawyer’s communication, availability, or results, it may be a red flag. Take the time to read through multiple reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the lawyer’s reputation and performance in dog bite cases.
Considering Legal Fees and Payment Structure
Different lawyers have different fee structures, such as hourly rates, flat fees, or contingency fees. Hourly rates pay for the lawyer’s time spent on your case, while flat fees are a set amount for the entire case. Contingency fees mean the lawyer only gets paid if you win your case, usually taking a percentage of the settlement.
Talk about these fees upfront and clarify any potential additional costs that might come up during the legal process. Be sure to inquire about billing practices, payment schedules, and what happens if your case fails. Transparency regarding fees can help you avoid surprises later on. Remember to also ask about any retainer fees or costs for services like expert witnesses or court filings.
Meeting for an Initial Consultation
Arranging a consultation with a dog bite lawyer gives you the opportunity to talk about the details of your situation and see if the lawyer is the right fit for you. Prepare for the consultation by gathering all relevant documents, such as medical records, photographs of the injuries, and any communication with the dog owner or insurance companies. Be ready to ask about the lawyer’s experience in handling dog bite cases, their success rate, and their approach to handling such claims.
Ask about their communication style, how they keep clients updated on the case’s progress, and their availability to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Use this meeting to gather information and gauge your comfort level with the lawyer, as trust and communication are important for a successful attorney-client relationship.
Conclusion
When choosing a dog bite lawyer for your case, be sure to look at their experience, track record of success, client testimonials, and legal fees.
A meeting for an initial consultation can help you decide if they’re the right fit for you. By considering these things, you can feel confident in selecting a lawyer who’ll advocate for your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
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