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Philadelphia Dog Bite Attorney Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation
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Philadelphia Dog Bite Attorney

Dog Bite Lawyer in Philadelphia, PA Providing Legal Advocacy for Animal Attack Victims Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

A bite injury from man's best friend can feel like a painful betrayal. A dog bite can result in severe physical trauma, emotional damage, and a hefty bill. Pennsylvania law says that dog owners are responsible for preventing any attacks or bites. When a dog owner fails to protect you from preventable injury, a Philadelphia dog bite attorney can help you hold them accountable.

Many dog owners try to avoid liability or downplay the severity of the injuries to avoid paying for the consequences of their dog’s actions. If you or a loved one has suffered from a serious bite, a dog bite lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, can be just what you need to recover from your injuries.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our Philadelphia dog bite attorneys recognize the true value of a dog bite claim. These injuries can be far more severe than you expect, so you need to be sure you have the resources you need to recover from your injuries. We have a team of more than a dozen personal injury attorneys who are prepared to guide you through every step of your injury claim, from filing the claim to receiving compensation.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to learn more.

    They handled every aspect of my case with integrity and pride.
    “Wonderful customer service. The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin is the real deal. I would definitely recommend them.”
    - Former Client
    Having been represented on different subjects Mike has provided the same outstanding results!
    “This law firm has been nothing but the best for my company! Mr. van der Veen has always worked very hard and communicated well with each situation that he has represented me in. I would highly recommend this firm!”
    - Sewall M. Jr.
    You should not go anywhere else.
    “This firm is the absolute best! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and amazing!! I recommend this Law firm to anyone with an issue.  can't speak highly enough for this firm and it's attorneys! It was truly a wonderful experience.”
    - Bennie H.
    Guided me through the process for a success.
    “Very satisfied with the way they handled my case, answer all my question, provided me with needed information.”
    - Frank A.
    They take full control of your case allowing you to have peace of mind while they win.
    “I have been a client of this firm for many years now, and all that I can say is these are the Top Lawyers in the City! My experience over the years have been excellent! Thank you van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin. Job very well done.”
    - Quiana
    The team is definitely a dream team straight outta Philadelphia Center City!
    “I first want to thank this dream team they definitely was a pleasure to work with and I am glad I chose Van der Veen law firm to get the jobs”
    - RB
    Michael is superb! Great attorney, great team, great job.
    “Outcome was better than expected. Forever thankful to Mike’s reliable firm. If you want great results they are your guys. Strongly recommend.”
    - Ninel B.
    They make my concerns their concerns.
    “Thank you for always picking up the phone. I could not have a better firm representing myself, family and my friends. If you want an attorney that gets the job done, Look no more!!! Contact Attorney van der Veen.”
    - Leslie L.

When Is a Dog Owner Liable for a Dog Bite?

Pennsylvania uses a strict liability rule that holds dog owners responsible for the costs of a dog bite, even if that dog has never bitten anyone before. Before we can hold a dog owner liable, our Philadelphia dog bite attorneys need to look into the facts of the case to find evidence that can support our claim. Common scenarios that establish liability include:

  • The owner ignores any warning signs of aggression in their dog
  • The dog is not being properly restrained or fenced in
  • The dog has a history of aggression or biting
  • The dog was not on a leash in a public area

By proving the dog owner was reckless or negligent with their pet, such as by violating leash laws or other dog statutes, we can help you recover from any dog bite injury.

Possible Injuries From a Dog Bite

You may be surprised by how serious the consequences of a dog bite can be. In order to secure the fair and full compensation you deserve, you first need to understand the total consequences of a dog bite. For example, some complications of your injuries may include:

  • Lacerations and puncture wounds
  • Nerve damage
  • Infection
  • Disease
  • Disfigurement
  • Psychological injuries

These injuries can have long-term financial costs, including therapy and reconstructive surgery. When our Philadelphia dog bite attorneys take your case, one of the first things we will do is review medical records and consult with experts to determine an accurate expectation of your injury costs. A complete assessment of your damages allows us to better negotiate for a settlement that reflects your needs and best interests.

The Person Who Sees The Whole Picture Meet Michael T. van der Veen
From local business owners, to the President of the United States, we fight for everyone's best interest. As founder of the firm, Michael T. van der Veen effortlessly combines accessibility, experience, negotiation, collaboration, and compassion to achieve results. He is the rare trial attorney who excels in both civil litigation and criminal defense. Known for his unwavering commitment to serving as the voice of the victim and advocate for the accused, he has established his reputation by winning multimillion-dollar jury verdicts in State and Federal Courts, as well as winning major criminal trials across the country.
Wheel
  • CNN
  • ABC
  • FOX
  • NBC
  • CBS
  • NYT
  • Philadelphia Inquirer
  • TMZ
  • Yahoo! News

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites Claims in Philadelphia, PA

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-610-3440 today!

  • Pennsylvania law generally grants victims 2 years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury claim. While this may seem like a long time, it can also take months or years to resolve a claim. To help you receive the compensation you need in the shortest amount of time possible, contact our law office today to get started on your dog bite claim.
  • A dog's history of biting or non-biting has no bearing on whether or not you are eligible to file a claim. Pennsylvania uses a strict liability law to hold the dog owner responsible for medical expenses and any other costs from their dog's first bite.
  • If a dog bit you on the owner's property, you are still eligible to pursue compensation. The ownership of any property related to the dog bite has no bearing on the liability the dog owner has for your injuries.
  • Children are some of the most common victims in dog bite cases, and it is well within your legal rights to file a claim for your child's injuries. The law is on your side in these claims, so be sure to let our legal team put our skills to work for you.

  • Dog bite lawsuits do not automatically result in the euthanasia of the dog. Local animal control will make a decision related to euthanasia based on the dog's history of biting and the severity of the attack. Whatever their choice will be, you are not responsible for their decision.

in their own words

Clients share their experiences and results firsthand
    "this law firm has afforded low income people of Philadelphia a relationship with an attorney that they can come and meet. To have a the intuition to give a damn about the little people, and then give them that same kind of respect and consideration is unmatched." -Melvin
    "He represented me in multiple criminal cases, and I had a lengthy criminal record. He never judged me, and treated me like anybody else, he never looked at me different. He's a real good guy, professional, very honest. When I say I never went to another attorney...he's the best." -Tiffany
    "He gives you the impression there’s a person you can count on, a person that you can rely on in terms of having some representation. He kept me informed, he kept me up to date with everything that was going on throughout the process. What doctor, what appointments, who I have to see…I was always very well informed." -Sam
    "I love that I have Mike on my side, whenever I question what am I supposed to do? I used to call my dad and after my dad passed, even for things that aren’t always law related, I know I could still call Mike, and I love that about him. He’s just amazing, and I know that if I send somebody here that they’re going to be represented a hundred percent." -Jamie

the complete coverage advantage

  • Full-Spectrum
    Law

    From criminal defense to personal injury and beyond, clients gain seamless, strategic support from a full-service law firm built to handle every legal challenge under one roof.

  • Values-Driven
    Practice

    From pro bono advocacy to charitable and community involvement, our attorneys are deeply invested in the people and causes they serve, because real justice includes giving back.

  • Human-Centered
    Advocacy

    We stand as the voice of the injured and a strong advocate for the accused. We don’t just see a case, we see the people and futures at stake, and we fight accordingly.

  • High-Caliber
    Results

    Our attorneys are nationally recognized, featured in major media, and trusted with the complex, high-stakes cases, because when the outcome matters most, experience matters more.

Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Trial Lawyers Excelling in the Areas of Law Most Critical to You and Your Family
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