Portland Dog Bite Attorneys
Dog bite injuries occur frequently in Portland, which has a large community of dog owners. While most owners keep their dogs under control, some situations lead to aggressive behavior and bites. If a dog has bitten you in Portland, you may wonder about your legal options.
In Oregon, dog owners generally bear responsibility for their dogs’ actions. When a dog bites you, you may have grounds to bring a personal injury claim against the owner. That process requires you to show the owner’s negligence caused your injuries. If a dog or other animal attacked you, Palace Law is ready to help.
Portland’s city code also requires dog owners to keep their pets leashed in all public areas unless in a designated off-leash park, setting clear standards for responsibility within city limits. Portland courts commonly handle dog bite claims, and local proceedings often reflect both state law and city enforcement priorities. When you work with a Portland-based firm, you benefit from attorneys who understand these local nuances and can guide you through jurisdiction-specific processes. If an animal owned by a neighbor or a local resident harmed you, the location and circumstances may shape how your claim is handled in the Portland area.
Contact our Portland dog bite lawyer by calling (253) 544-5935 today!
Why should you choose a Palace Law attorney?
If you’ve been injured by a dog in Portland, it’s important to choose an attorney who has experience handling these types of cases. At Palace Law, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the laws surrounding dog bite injuries and are skilled at navigating the legal process.
We have four lawyers who have tried over 200 cases each, giving us a wealth of experience in this area. In addition, we have over 1,500 positive reviews from satisfied clients, demonstrating our commitment to providing high-quality legal representation.
When you work with one of our attorneys, you can expect personalized attention and compassionate representation. We understand the emotional toll that dog bite injuries can take, and we’ll do everything we can to help you get the justice you deserve. We’ll work with you to build a strong case and seek the maximum amount of compensation possible.
What To Do After a Dog Bite in Portland
After a dog bite in Portland, prioritize your safety and health by seeking immediate medical attention, even for minor wounds. Medical records are crucial for any legal claim or insurance process. Report the incident promptly to Multnomah County Animal Services, which investigates bites and enforces Portland’s animal codes. This agency will track the biting animal’s vaccination records and take steps to prevent future incidents involving the same dog. Secure the contact information of the dog’s owner and any witnesses who saw the incident. Whenever possible, take photos of your injury, the scene, and the dog that caused the bite. These details add important support to your claim and may help demonstrate liability if the case proceeds. Finally, contact a dog bite lawyer in Portland early to discuss your legal rights and next steps under Portland and Oregon law. Early legal guidance can help you preserve evidence, meet deadlines, and avoid common pitfalls that could reduce your ability to recover damages.
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- Natalie S.
I had an outstanding experience working with Ciana on a personal injury matter. Without her expertise, I would have never realized that I even had a case. Ciana’s attention to detail and deep understanding of personal injury law were invaluable. She guided me through every step with professionalism and care, ensuring I understood the process and felt supported. Thanks to her diligence and expertise, what could have been overlooked became a well-handled case. I highly recommend Ciana to anyone needing a knowledgeable and dedicated legal professional.
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- Jay R.
Hailey was super helpful and communication was always prompt and professional. Thank you for all your hard work Hailey and the rest of the team at Palace law.
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- Former Client
They are an amazing team and made my case an easy process to cope with. They stayed in great communication with me every step of the way and fought to maximize my profit. Palace Law is hands down THE BEST law firm I’ve dealt with. Attorney John H and assistant Hailey make an amazing team.
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- Sharon R.
I highly recommend Palace Law for your work place injury. I would definitely use them again but hopefully I won’t have to.
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- John A.
I’ve spent the last 7 years working with them and it hasn’t been a easy ride but they work very hard to get the best outcome for there clients. Sandra has done an outstanding job keeping me informed of the process and keeping me feel safe and secure with my future. I couldn’t of asked for a better person and team to help me during this stressful time and working hard to get me what I deserved.
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- Chad F.
Exceptional legal representation! My experience with Kim was outstanding. She was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated to ensuring I received the outcome I deserved. Kim’s communication throughout the process was clear and timely, providing me with peace of mind during a challenging time.
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- Kelly Y.
Aria has been working with me and she is very thorough. I don’t get good sleep at night because of my injury but knowing that Palace Law is on the job gives me peace of mind specially, when they have employees like Aria thanks for letting me give my feedback and putting me in a position to give feedback.
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- Jacob H.
They have been entirely helpful since they accepted my case. Thorough and informative every step of the way. When I had an IME and no gas in my car they arranged for a ride to and from. After fighting tooth and nail myself with little to no results Palace Law stepped in and immediately Sedgwick stopped dragging me through the mud.
Under What Circumstances Would the Dog Owner Not Be Liable for a Dog Bite?
Under Oregon law, dog owners are generally held responsible for the actions of their dogs. However, there are certain circumstances under which the dog owner may not be held liable for a dog bite.
For example, if the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property or was committing a crime at the time of the bite, the owner may not be held liable. Additionally, if the victim was teasing or tormenting the dog, the owner may not be held responsible for any resulting injuries.
It’s also important to note that Oregon has a “one bite” rule, meaning that the owner of a dog may not be held liable for a bite if they had no reason to believe that the dog was dangerous or prone to biting. However, if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or has bitten someone before, the owner may be held liable for any future bites.
What Are the Potential Damages in a Dog Bite Claim?
If you suffered a dog bite injury in Oregon, you may recover a range of damages, including:
- Medical bills: You may pursue compensation for doctor’s visits, hospital stays, medications, and other medical care resulting from the bite.
- Lost wages: If your injuries forced you to miss work, you can seek recovery for your lost earnings.
- Pain and suffering: You may be eligible to claim damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack.
- Property damage: If the dog damaged your personal property, you may seek reimbursement for repair or replacement.
- Loss of consortium: If your injuries have changed your relationship with your spouse or family, you may seek damages for that loss.
The damages available depend on your case’s unique facts. An experienced attorney will help you evaluate your claim’s likely value and pursue fair compensation.
Dog bites often result in medical complications, including infections, nerve damage, or permanent scarring. Some clients in Portland require follow-up treatment at local hospitals, rehabilitation for mobility, or even ongoing counseling for trauma. The impact of a dog bite can extend beyond immediate injuries, affecting day-to-day life and future opportunities. A successful claim may account for anticipated future costs, such as additional surgeries or therapy. As Portland’s population grows, medical providers in the city recognize the need for comprehensive treatment when handling dog bite injuries, making full documentation of your care and expenses crucial for your case.
Common Dog Bite Injuries & Complications
Dog bite injuries can vary widely in severity, ranging from puncture wounds and lacerations to broken bones and muscle or tendon damage. In Portland, hospital emergency rooms often see bites to the hands, face, and lower legs—the most common areas injured during an attack. Immediate risks include infection with bacteria like Pasteurella, which doctors frequently treat in animal bite cases. For some injuries, treatment goes beyond wound care and may include rabies shots, plastic surgery, or even physical therapy to restore normal movement. Long-term complications may involve nerve injury, loss of function, or significant scarring. Area physicians recognize the link between traumatic dog bite incidents and psychological impacts, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress. When seeking damages, it is essential to document each type of harm and consider both your current medical needs and the potential future consequences of the attack. Preparing comprehensive records increases the accuracy of your claim and can help ensure you recover for all aspects of the injury.
How Palace Law Can Help
If you’ve been injured by a dog bite in Portland, OR, it’s important to get the legal help you need as soon as possible. At Palace Law, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Some of the ways we can help include:
- Free consultation: We offer a free consultation to all potential clients. During this consultation, we’ll listen to your story, review your case, and help you understand your legal options. There’s no obligation to hire us after the consultation, so you have nothing to lose by reaching out.
- Availability: We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns. We understand that dog bite injuries can be traumatic, and we’re here to help you get the support you need.
- We can come to you: If you’re too injured to travel, we can come to you. We serve all of Oregon and Washington State.
Our team has a combined 200+ years of experience, and we’re dedicated to ensuring our clients get the help and compensation they need and deserve.
If you or any of your loved ones have been injured by a dog bite, don’t hesitate to contact Palace Law today by calling (253) 544-5935 for a free consultation.
