Mission Viejo Dog Bites and Attacks Lawyer

Bitten or Attacked by a Dog in Orange County? We Can Help

mission viejo dog bites and attacks laywers

A dog attack can be traumatic—both physically and emotionally. Beyond the pain, you may be dealing with hospital bills, missed work, disfigurement, and lasting psychological effects. Whether the bite occurred in a park, a neighbor’s home, or on private property, you may have the right to compensation under California law.

At Banner Attorneys, our Mission Viejo dog bites and attacks lawyer has helped wounded victims for over 15 years. We understand the toll these injuries can take—and we fight aggressively to hold negligent dog owners accountable. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Let us take on the legal fight while you focus on recovery and peace of mind.

California Dog Bite Laws Explained

Under California Civil Code § 3342, dog owners are held to a strict liability standard. This means they can be held financially responsible for a bite, even if the dog has no prior history of aggression and even if they took precautions to prevent an attack.

In contrast to states that require proof of negligence or a “one-bite rule,” California’s strict liability law makes it easier for victims to pursue compensation. As long as you were bitten while lawfully in a public or private place, the owner can be held liable.

When Can You Sue for a Dog Bite or Animal Attack?

You may have a valid claim if:

  • You were bitten in a public place (e.g., sidewalk, park) or while lawfully on private property
  • The bite caused injuries that required medical attention
  • You were not provoking or threatening the dog

Children under the age of 5 are generally presumed incapable of provoking a dog, which often strengthens a claim in cases involving minors. Emotional trauma is also common and compensable—especially in cases involving children or facial injuries.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can result in serious, and sometimes permanent, injuries. These may include:

  • Deep puncture wounds and soft tissue damage
  • Severed tendons or muscle tears
  • Nerve damage
  • Scarring and facial disfigurement
  • Infections (e.g., rabies, MRSA, cellulitis)
  • Psychological trauma such as PTSD, fear of animals, or nightmares (especially in children)

Our team of personal injury lawyers work with your medical providers and psychological experts to build a full picture of the impact your injury has had—and will continue to have—on your life.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite in California?

Liability is not always limited to the dog’s owner. Other potentially responsible parties may include:

  • Landlords or property owners who knew a dangerous dog was on their premises
  • Commercial property owners if the bite occurred at a business or event
  • Dog walkers or pet sitters who failed to control the animal

Our dog bites and attacks attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and determine whether insurance policies (homeowners, renters, commercial) may apply to your case.

Mission Viejo dog bites and attacks attorney

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?

If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, you may be eligible for compensation covering:

  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Ongoing medical care or reconstructive surgery
  • Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress, anxiety, or PTSD therapy
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement

At Banner Attorneys, we work with medical and psychological experts to determine the full extent of your losses—and fight for the maximum compensation available under California law.

How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in California?

Under C.C.P. § 335.1, the standard deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit, including a dog bite, is two years from the date of the incident.

However, if your claim involves a government entity (e.g., if the attack occurred at a city park), you must file an administrative claim within six months. Claims involving children may have extended timelines, but it’s best to act quickly before evidence is lost or memories fade.

Why Choose Banner Attorneys for Your Dog Bite Case?

With over 15 years of experience handling dog bite and personal injury cases in Mission Viejo, we bring a deep understanding of California’s strict liability rules and insurance procedures. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • 98% success rate in injury and liability claims
  • No fees unless we win—you only pay when we recover compensation
  • Local knowledge of Mission Viejo neighborhoods, courts, and property regulations
  • Hands-on service—we treat every client like family, not a case number

What to Expect When You Work With Us

We take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing. Here’s what our process looks like:

  1. Free consultation: We listen to your story, review your options, and explain what to expect.
  2. Case investigation: We collect medical records, police or animal control reports, photos, and witness statements.
  3. Negotiation: We handle all communication with insurers or opposing counsel to seek a fair settlement.
  4. Litigation: If needed, we prepare a trial-ready case to fight for your rights in court.

Our average case is resolved in 93 days. The justice process does not have to be long, drawn out, or painstaking. Focus on recovery and allow us to handle the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims

Yes. The claim is typically filed against the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance, not them personally. You can pursue compensation without damaging the relationship.

Children, especially under age 5, are presumed not to be capable of provoking a dog. This often strengthens the legal claim and increases your chance of compensation.

Yes. In California, dog bites must be reported to local animal control or the police. This helps with your claim and ensures the dog is properly monitored.

Not necessarily. Filing a civil claim does not automatically result in euthanasia. That decision is handled by animal control based on the dog’s behavior and history.

It depends on the severity of injuries, emotional trauma, medical expenses, and long-term impact. Cases involving children, facial injuries, or permanent scars typically result in higher compensation.

Speak With a Mission Viejo Dog Bite & Attacks Lawyer Today

If you or your child were bitten by a dog, don’t delay. You have legal rights—and Banner Attorneys is here to protect them.

Contact us today or use our online form to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve clients in Mission Viejo and throughout Orange County.