Dog Bite Lawyer in Chicago, IL
Fighting For Dog Bite Victims in Illinois
It’s a beautiful day, and you decide to take a long walk in the park. Suddenly, you come around a corner and find yourself face to face with an unleashed, aggressive dog. Before you know it, the dog bites your leg or another part of your body.
The dog itself is not to blame, but irresponsible owners may be. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, dog owners must maintain careful control of their pets or face liability actions in civil court that could require them to pay for medical care, lost wages, pain, suffering, and more.
The Animal Control Act places additional obligations on dog owners, such as requiring them to keep their dogs inside a fence. If you’ve suffered a dog bite, you may need an experienced dog bite lawyer in Illinois.
Let our Chicago dog bite attorneys at Alvarez Law Offices provide the representation you deserve to get compensation for any dog bite injuries you may have suffered. Contact us today.
What to Do After a Dog Bite?
No one starts their day expecting to become the victim of a dog bite. These situations often occur suddenly, leaving you feeling disoriented, scared, and hurt. Your first priority should be your well-being and the safety of others in the area.
If the dog is not under the control of its owner and your injuries are mild, try to keep others, especially children, away from danger. If others are also bitten, check whether they need medical care and help if you can.
If you are seriously injured, focus on taking care of yourself. Call paramedics if possible or ask someone nearby to contact the authorities. If you have a severe wound, focus on slowing or stopping the bleeding.
If your injuries are mild, once the situation is stable and you feel able, gather some information for the record. Make quick notes about what happened. Get the names and contact information of witnesses and the dog’s owner. Specifically, ask the owner to provide you with records of the dog’s vaccinations.
If the situation is still volatile, choose your safety first. Use your best judgment. In a serious incident, the police can help document what happened and obtain the names of the owner and any witnesses.
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
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$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
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$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
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$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
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$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
Why Choose Us?
If a dog has bitten you, our personal injury law team at Alvarez Law, serving clients in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, is ready to represent you and will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. We bring extensive experience in personal injury litigation, including dog bites, slips and falls, vehicle, truck and pedestrian accidents, and other instances where someone’s negligence or recklessness results in injury.
Our team will stand by you throughout your case and advocate for your needs so you can focus on getting back to normal. We’ll make sure your case is thoroughly investigated and represent you in official proceedings, including, if necessary, negotiating with insurance carriers for a settlement. Call us or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Contact us today to get started with our Chicago dog bite lawyers.
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The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
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- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
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I would give Alvarez Law more than 5 stars if i could! They handled my car accident case and got me top dollar! They communicated with me every step of the way! I will absolutely be recommending Alvarez Law to my friends and family! Thank you again!- Kenneth J.
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This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
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Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
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Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
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The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
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I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
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I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
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Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
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My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
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Fantastic Law Firm! Steven did a great job of negotiating a settlement for my wife. Would definitely would recommend Alvarez Law to anyone needing an injury lawyer.- Don
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They helped me on my car accident, set me up with medical treatment, and got me an AMAZING settlement. 10/10 recommend!- Emma M.
How Can Lawyers Help in Dog Bite Cases?
Dog bites broadly fall under the category of personal injury law, which seeks to compensate victims and hold those who exhibit recklessness or negligence accountable for their actions. In the aftermath of a dog attack, seeking the assistance of lawyers may be far from your mind. But it makes sense to seek legal counsel from an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your rights.
Dog bite lawyers in Chicago will provide a range of services for clients. First and foremost, the team at Alvarez Law will gather initial information about the incident and assess whether your case qualifies for a personal injury claim or lawsuit based on the law and the facts.
If we accept your case, we’ll work with you to investigate and collect evidence about the attack, including gathering police reports, correspondence, emails, or text messages. We’ll also seek to interview witnesses. Initially, we’ll focus on negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company.
Insurance companies are risk-averse and will want to try to resolve the case without taking on the uncertainties of trial. The most crucial thing to remember is to let your attorneys talk with the insurance company to avoid feeling pressured into an unjustifiably low settlement.
If a settlement is impossible, then Alvarez Law will take your case to the next level and file a lawsuit. The litigation process can be long and challenging, as it may involve depositions, motions, and even a trial. Always keep in mind that a case can be settled at any time.
Dog Bite Injury Damages
One meaningful way we serve is by helping you establish and document a realistic claim for compensation. This can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, you should only ask for what you can document in damages. Personal injury cases generally cover two types of damages.
The first is direct economic losses, including medical care in the immediate aftermath of the dog bite and follow-up care required for lingering injuries. This can include the need for physical or psychological therapy. If the attack puts you out of work for a while, you may seek compensation for lost wages and earnings potential. The second category is non-economic damages, which cover more subjective matters such as pain and suffering and any lingering emotional impacts from the bite.
Illinois classifies dog bites as “strict liability” cases, meaning that plaintiffs don’t necessarily have to prove negligence or recklessness. For instance, dog owners can’t say that they were unaware that their dogs had a tendency toward acting aggressively. Illinois law holds out the presumption that all dogs may be dangerous, so owners are liable if they fail to keep their pets under control.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases
What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?
After a dog bite in Chicago, prioritize your safety and health. If the injury is severe, seek medical attention immediately. It's crucial to contact local authorities to report the incident, which will help document the situation officially. Gathering evidence is the next important step—take photographs of your injuries, gather witness statements, and obtain the dog owner's contact information. This information will be invaluable in pursuing a legal claim. Once your immediate medical and safety needs are met, consulting with a personal injury attorney familiar with Chicago's specific dog bite statutes can provide you the best course of legal action.
What Legal Rights Do I Have If Bitten by a Dog?
In Chicago, you have the legal right to pursue compensation if a dog bites you, under Illinois' strict liability statute. This means that you need not prove that the dog owner was negligent; rather, you only need to show that you were injured by the dog without provocation. You can pursue damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Consulting a qualified attorney will help navigate the complexities of proving your claim and ensuring you receive fair compensation.
What Are the Common Breeds Involved in Dog Bites?
While any breed can inflict a bite, certain breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are often involuntarily associated with aggressive behavior. It's crucial to understand that the circumstances of each bite are unique and not always related to breed specifics. Regardless of the dog's breed, owners are responsible under Chicago laws for the actions of their pets. Consulting a lawyer if bitten by any dog will clarify your rights and responsibilities in pursuing a claim.
Do I Need to See a Doctor Even if the Bite Seems Minor?
What if the Dog Belonged to a Friend or Family Member?
What if the Dog Owner Says I Provoked the Dog?
What if the Dog was Unleashed or Roaming Free?
Contact Our Dog Bite Attorney in Chicago Today
A conviction can change the course of your life in an instant. A criminal record can make it harder to find a job or find a place to live in the future, depending on your charges. Whether you’re being investigated or have already been arrested, you should contact a lawyer first thing.
If you need a criminal defense attorney, reach out to the team at Alvarez Law today. One of our attorneys will be glad to discuss your case and explore your options. We have several convenient locations to serve clients throughout Indiana and Illinois. Our team looks forward to working with you and providing the representation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, don’t delay to get the experienced legal help you deserve. Our Chicago dog bite attorney is here to protect your rights, lead you through every step of the legal process, and fight for the compensation you need to heal and move forward. We know the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents cause, and we’re committed to standing by your side from start to finish. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you pursue justice. Your recovery starts with one call.
You can reach our Chicago dog bite lawyers by phone at (219) 300-5204 or fill out our quick form online today.
