Animal Attack Lawyer in Union County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
An animal attack in Union County can cause severe injuries under New Jersey’s strict liability statute, N.J.S.A. 4:19-16. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation for victims seeking compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering. Our firm handles dog bite and dangerous animal liability claims throughout Union County. Contact us for a case review.
New Jersey Animal Attack Laws
New Jersey law imposes strict liability on dog owners for bites, meaning a victim does not need to prove the owner was negligent. The statute, N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, holds an owner liable if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the owner’s property. This is a powerful legal standard for victims. However, claims can be barred if the victim was trespassing or tormenting the animal. An experienced animal attack lawyer Union County can handle these defenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
External Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 (official New Jersey Legislature)
- Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage
Handling an Animal Bite Injury Claim in Union County
Filing an animal bite injury claim lawyer Union County case requires specific steps. The claim is typically filed in the Superior Court, Law Division, in Elizabeth. New Jersey’s modified comparative negligence rule applies; if you are found 50% or more at fault for the incident, you cannot recover damages. Insurance companies often dispute the severity of injuries or allege provocation.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Document all injuries and follow all treatment plans. Medical records are the foundation of your claim.
- Report the Incident: File a report with the local animal control office and the police department where the attack occurred.
- Gather Evidence: Collect contact information for the owner and any witnesses. Take photos of your injuries, the animal, and the location.
- Identify Insurance: Determine the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy of the animal’s owner.
- Consult an Attorney: Do not provide a recorded statement to the insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.
- File Your Claim: Your attorney will file a lawsuit in the Superior Court before the two-year statute of limitations expires.
Potential Damages and Compensation
In Union County, an animal attack claim can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and permanent scarring or disability.
| Damage Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Tangible financial losses | Hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, lost income |
| Non-Economic Damages | Intangible losses | Pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life |
| Punitive Damages | Rare, intended to punish egregious conduct | May apply if owner knew the animal was vicious and acted with reckless disregard |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Case
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings extensive experience to personal injury litigation. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how to build compelling cases for victims. We are familiar with the procedures of the Union County Superior Court and the tactics used by insurance defense attorneys. We focus on securing full compensation for your injuries so you can focus on recovery.
Our Approach to Animal Attack Cases
We approach every animal attack case with a detailed investigation. We obtain all animal control records, interview witnesses, and work with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries and future needs. We handle all negotiations with insurance companies and are prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Our goal is to alleviate the burden on you during this difficult time.
Contact Our Union County Animal Attack Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Animal Attack Lawyer Union County FAQ
What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Union County?
Yes. Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor wounds, to prevent infection and create a medical record. Report the bite to local animal control and police. Get the owner’s contact and insurance information. Take photos of your injuries and the location. Then, contact an animal attack lawyer Union County to discuss your legal options before speaking with any insurance adjusters.
Who is liable if a dog bites someone in New Jersey?
New Jersey is a strict liability state for dog bites under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16. The dog’s owner is liable for injuries if the bite occurs in a public place or if the victim is lawfully on the owner’s private property. Liability is not dependent on the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s viciousness. A dangerous animal liability lawyer Union County can help establish this liability and identify all available sources of compensation, such as homeowner’s insurance.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in New Jersey?
It depends. The statute of limitations for personal injury, including dog bites, in New Jersey is generally two years from the date of the attack (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2). If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you will lose the right to seek compensation. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met.
Can I sue if the dog didn’t break the skin?
Yes. You can still have a valid claim even without a breaking of the skin. Injuries from an animal attack can include bruises, scratches, soft tissue damage, and significant psychological trauma like a fear of dogs (cynophobia). The key is documenting the incident and your injuries through medical and mental health professionals to establish the impact of the attack.
What if I was partially at fault for the dog bite?
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1). Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any damages. An attorney can investigate to minimize allegations of your fault and maximize your recovery.
Related Practice Areas: New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer | Bergen County Personal Injury Lawyer | Union County Civil Litigation Lawyer
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Union County claims are handled by our New Jersey animal attack practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Union County, New Jersey
Injury claims are filed in the Civil Part of the Law Division. In Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, which sets a two-year filing limit for injury claims; tolling rules and exceptions can change that period, so confirm your deadline early. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Union County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Union County NJ lawyers directory · Animal Attack Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Animal Attack Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Animal Attack Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.