California Dog Bite Attorneys
Bitten by a dog?
California law is on your side.
Dog owners are strictly liable for bite injuries in California. We make their insurance company pay — 17 Locations To Serve You.
No legal fee unless or until we win.
- $0 upfront — contingency fee only
- Free Consultation
- Available 24/7, we come to you
Free Dog Bite Case Review
100% Free & Confidential
Your rights as a dog bite victim
Strict Liability
Under California Civil Code § 3342, the owner is liable for a bite in a public place or lawfully on private property — even if the dog never bit anyone before. No “one bite” free pass.
Knock-Downs & Chases
Hurt without a bite — knocked over, chased into traffic? You can still recover by proving the owner was negligent or broke a leash law.
Insurance Usually Pays
Most claims are paid by the owner's homeowner's, renter's or umbrella policy — not out of the owner's pocket. Hiring a lawyer doesn't hurt the owner personally.
Child Victims
Children are bitten most often, usually on the face. Their settlements must be approved by a judge and protected until adulthood. We handle every step.
Injuries we handle
Some bites that look minor — like hand punctures or bites to the face — can become serious. Get a free review either way.
- Puncture wounds & lacerations
- Facial injuries & disfigurement
- Nerve and tendon damage
- Complications (infection, rabies)
- Broken bones when knocked down
- Permanent scarring
- PTSD and fear of dogs
- Injuries to children
Compensation you may receive
After a dog bite: what to do — and not do
Do
- Get medical care right away — and keep every record
- Report the bite to Animal Control
- Get the owner's name, address and insurance
- Photograph your wounds, the dog and the scene
- Collect witness names and phone numbers
- Confirm the dog's vaccination status
- Call a dog bite lawyer before talking to insurance
Don't
- Don't give a recorded statement to the insurer
- Don't sign anything or accept a quick offer
- Don't post about the attack on social media
- Don't skip follow-up medical appointments
- Don't assume a “minor” bite is minor
- Don't wait — evidence and witnesses disappear
- Don't settle before knowing the full extent of your injuries
How we handle your case
Free consultation
Tell us what happened. Get honest answers in one call.
Investigation
Gather Animal Control reports, videos and witness statements.
Calculate Damages
Medical bills, scarring, lost wages, emotional distress and future care.
Trial-Ready
We push the insurer for maximum compensation and go to trial if needed.
Recent Results
Dog sitter was bit by pitbull and sustained bite to arm requiring stitches.
Dinner guest was attacked by an Akita sustaining a minor bite to the nose.
Patron was bitten by bar owner's dog sustaining a lower leg bite requiring stitches.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?
Generally two years from the date of the bite (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). If a city, county or state agency is involved, a claim may need to be filed within six months. Claims for children can have different deadlines — call us to be sure.
Is California a strict liability dog bite state?
Yes. Civil Code § 3342 makes the owner liable for bite injuries even if the dog had no history of aggression. Exceptions include provoking the dog, trespassing, and certain police or military dogs.
What if I wasn't actually bitten?
Strict liability covers bites only. If the dog knocked you over or chased you, you can still recover for your injuries by proving negligence, such as a leash law violation or an owner who knew the dog was dangerous.
What is my dog bite case worth?
It depends on the severity of injuries, scarring, age of the victim, medical costs and insurance limits. A lawyer can value your case — insurers count on victims not knowing what it's worth.
How much does it cost to hire Nadrich Law?
There is absolutely no upfront cost to you. We do not collect a legal fee unless or until a recovery is made.
Evidence fades fast. Call today.
Free, confidential consultation. No legal fee unless or until we win.
(866) 257-7939