Top Wilsonville, AL Animal Attack Lawyers Near You

Has an Animal Attacked You?

Animal attacks by domesticated or dangerous animals kept as pets, which can be severe and even life threatening, are a patchwork of city and county ordinances and state law assigning liability to the animal’s owner for the injuries sustained. In some cases, criminal law may also apply.

Animal Attack Legal Recourse

Most states are strict liability jurisdictions, meaning the person who owns or controls the animal is liable to the victim unless the animal’s owner has a valid defense, such as a third party let the animal loose without the owner’s knowledge or consent. A Wilsonville animal attack attorney can advise you if you are entitled to compensation.

Best Time to Seek Legal Help

No matter what your legal issue may be, it is always best to seek legal help early in the process. An attorney can help secure what is likely to be the best possible outcome for your situation and avoid both unnecessary complications or errors.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation

Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.

Points to Consider Before Hiring a Lawyer

Experience. Regardless of the type of legal matter you need help with, an experienced attorney will usually be able to get you better results.

Competence. Determine an attorney’s expertise by asking about their track record for the issue you need help with resolving.

Fit. There are plenty of good attorneys out there; make sure you find one you are comfortable working with.

Common legal terms explained

Personal jurisdiction – Requirement that a particular court have authority over a person, in order to bind that person to the judgment of the court, based on minimum contacts. International Shoe Co v. Washington is a landmark Supreme Court case outlining the scope of a state court’s reach in personal jurisdiction.