When a child experiences serious physical injury as a result of a dog bite, the consequences may not only be painful, but also lifelong. It can be excruciating for parents who have supported their child through a dog attack to watch their child experience such incredible pain. It can also be financially challenging to manage a child’s care in the aftermath of a serious bite. Parents often choose to take legal action in the wake of an attack, partially because doing so may allow them to receive compensation for their child’s medical bills.
If your child has been harmed as a result of a bite and you share custody of your child with another person, you may wonder how your child custody arrangement may ultimately impact the way you approach your legal options concerning your child’s injuries. Every case is unique, so it is important to consult with an experienced dog bite lawyer Houston, TX residents trust before making any assumptions about your unique situation. The experienced Houston, Texas dog bite injury law firm of John K. Zaid & Associates is here to answer your questions and advise you of your legal options so that you can make informed decisions moving forward.
Which parent will be able to take legal action on behalf of their child?
Children under the age of 18 have the right to compensation for the damages they have suffered. However, a minor is unable to collect compensation on their own. As a result, they will require a legal guardian to take action on their behalf. A parent has the ability to negotiate for their children with the help of a Houston, TX dog bite injury law firm. Any parent who has legal custody holds the right to take legal action in the name of their child. When two parents share legal custody, they may choose to work together to pursue legal action. In other situations, exes may determine that only one of you will manage pursuing a settlement.
When a personal injury settlement is obtained, who manages the settlement?
When a settlement award is obtained for a child, it’s likely that they may not be able to access it until they reach the age of 18. However, it’s important to be aware that some of this money may be required to help provide medical care for the injuries the child has experienced. When a settlement is over a certain amount, the court will likely determine who will be permitted to manage the settlement. An experienced Houston, TX dog bite injury law firm can clarify what may happen in your situation, after our team learns about your unique circumstances. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation. We look forward to speaking with you.
