How Do I Find a Dog Bite Lawyer in Houston, TX?
How Do I Find a Dog Bite Lawyer in Houston, TX?
If you or a loved one has been attacked and injured by a dog in Houston, Texas, compensation may be available for your injuries. It is important to understand that pressing criminal charges will generally not result in compensation. To recover monetary damages, a civil case should be pursued. Furthermore, even if charges were not filed, or you lost the criminal case, it may be possible to file a civil claim – and even win. This is because the standards of proof are not the same.
A civil suit for a dog bite involves a legal process in which you hold a party financially responsible for injuries, distress, and losses that have resulted from their negligence or wrongdoing. In order to file a civil claim, you will generally require a dog bite lawyer in Houston, TX. Not all lawyers handle these types of cases. To find a dog bite lawyer in Houston, TX, you should look for the following criteria.
Understand Texas Laws
When it comes to dog bite laws, they vary by state. For example Texas is one of the only states with a one bite rule. This basically means the dog’s first bite is “free” when it comes to liability on part of the owner. After the first bite, the owner is on notice in regards to the dog’s tendency to bite. If the dog bites again, the owner is more likely to be found negligent. Whereas, Massachusetts, is a strict liability state. This means the owner is almost always liable for a dog attack. To ensure you get the best representation, and protection of your rights, hiring a dog bite lawyer in Houston, Texas is recommended. A good lawyer should have passed the Bar, be licensed to practice in Texas, and by extension have a sound understanding of TX laws. Some law firms offer reciprocity, meaning they have passed the Bar in one state but practice in another. This is okay as long as they understand the laws of the state.
Experienced in Handling Dog Bite Cases
In addition to having experience in the state, you should make sure the lawyer has handled dog bite cases. A good lawyer should be equipped with sound strategies and defenses against the owner. They should also have plenty of expert witnesses to call upon. These experts can be essential to link the attack to your injuries, as well as establish injuries and other losses.
An experienced dog bite lawyer should know how to review medical records and evaluate injuries for the extent of damage, as well as pain and suffering. This experience can result in the best possible settlement for a dog bite. In contrast, a lawyer who is not experienced could fail to identify all of the damages suffered in the attack.
A dog attack might not only cause physical injuries, but can also result in PTSD, extreme fears of dogs or animals, as well as other emotional issues. Issues like these, and others, can affect a person’s life for a very long time. You should want a dog bite lawyer who understands how to include these in a case for your benefit.
Highly Lauded by Professional Organizations
You should seek a Houston dog bite lawyer who is involved in professional organizations and groups, and who have received high ratings from third parties. This helps to ensure the lawyer has built a solid network of legal professionals and has a sound reputation.
Works on Contingency
Finally, take a look at how the lawyer will charge you. Ideally, your dog bite lawyer will work on contingency. This means you are not required to pay anything up front. Only if you win will a fee be deducted from the settlement. To learn more, call John K. Zaid & Associates today.
