Finding Legal Help After a Dog Attack in Denver
If you’re searching for the best denver lawyer for dog bites, here’s a quick overview of top-rated attorneys who can help you steer your case:
| Law Firm | Experience | Specialization | Free Consultation |
|---|---|---|---|
| William McBride Law Group | 25+ years | Personal injury, dog bite claims | Yes |
Dog attacks can be traumatic and life-changing events. Each year in Denver, over 500 dog bite incidents are reported, with many victims requiring extensive medical treatment and facing significant financial burdens. When you’re dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a dog bite, finding the right legal representation becomes crucial to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation.
Colorado’s dog bite laws are complex, combining strict liability for serious injuries with negligence standards for less severe cases. This legal framework makes having knowledgeable legal counsel essential. Most Denver dog bite attorneys operate on contingency fee arrangements, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe legal fees if your case succeeds.
The statute of limitations for dog bite claims in Colorado is just two years, so prompt action is necessary. A dedicated dog bite attorney can help gather evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Understanding Denver’s Dog Bite Laws
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite in Denver, navigating the legal landscape can feel overwhelming. Colorado’s approach to dog bite cases has some unique aspects that make having a knowledgeable attorney by your side especially valuable.
Colorado’s Dog Bite Statute
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Colorado, you should know about the state’s specific laws. Under Colorado statute, dog owners can be held strictly liable for serious bodily injuries their pets cause. This means you don’t have to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous—if you suffered a serious injury, the owner is responsible, period.
The law defines “dogs” quite broadly as any domesticated animal related to foxes, wolves, coyotes, or jackals. This comprehensive definition ensures you’re protected regardless of the specific type of canine that caused your injury.
What Constitutes “Serious Bodily Injury”?
Not all dog bites qualify as “serious bodily injuries” under Colorado law. To meet this standard, your injury must involve:
- A substantial risk of death
- Permanent disfigurement
- Long-term loss or impairment of body function
- Broken bones or fractures
- Second or third-degree burns
If your injuries don’t meet these criteria, don’t worry—you still have options. You’ll need to pursue your claim under a negligence standard instead, which means showing the dog owner failed to take reasonable care in controlling their animal.
Denver’s Local Ordinances
Beyond state laws, Denver has its own rules about dogs and owner liability. Denver’s Ordinance Sec. 8-67 addresses dangerous dogs specifically and places additional requirements on owners whose pets have shown aggressive behavior.
While Denver repealed its pit bull ban in 2021, the city maintains strict regulations for all dangerous dogs, regardless of breed. These local ordinances work alongside state laws to create a framework for holding irresponsible dog owners accountable.
The Two-Track System for Compensation
Colorado’s approach creates two different paths for dog bite victims seeking compensation:
Strict Liability Track: If you’ve suffered a serious bodily injury, the dog’s owner is strictly liable for your economic damages. This includes your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other measurable financial losses.
Negligence Track: For less severe injuries or to recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering, you’ll need to prove the owner was negligent or knew their dog had dangerous tendencies.
The reality is that dog bites are surprisingly common in Denver. As of 2025, the city’s Department of Public Health and Environment continues to report hundreds of dog bites annually. With numbers like these, understanding your rights becomes all the more important.
Statute of Limitations
Time is truly of the essence in dog bite cases. In Colorado, you have just two years from the date of the incident to file your claim. This relatively short window makes it crucial to consult with a best Denver lawyer for dog bites as soon as possible after an attack.
Missing this deadline could mean permanently losing your right to compensation, regardless of how severe your injuries are or how clear the dog owner’s liability might be. Don’t let the clock run out on your chance to recover the damages you deserve.
Why Hiring a Denver Lawyer for Dog Bites Matters
After a dog attack, you’re not just dealing with physical wounds – you’re facing medical bills, possible time off work, and the emotional trauma of the incident. Having someone in your corner who knows the legal landscape can make all the difference in your recovery journey.
Navigating Complex Legal Standards
Dog bite cases in Denver aren’t straightforward. They involve a maze of legal standards that most people simply don’t have the background to steer effectively. A lawyer who handles dog bite cases regularly understands when strict liability applies versus when you need to prove negligence – a distinction that can dramatically impact your case outcome.
I recently spoke with Scott N., who shared his story: “I was the victim of an attack that left me with a severe head injury. The first legal team I worked with walked away from my case, stating ‘we do not see a clear case of recovery.’ I felt hopeless, and thought that I would just have to accept this unfortunate fate. But then I was referred to a Denver dog bite attorney. What a game changer!”
Proper Valuation of Your Claim
Most dog bite victims don’t realize the full extent of what their claim is worth. Did you know the average hospital stay for a dog bite costs approximately $18,200? That’s about 50% higher than the average hospital stay for other injuries. And according to the most recent data available in 2025, thousands of reconstructive surgeries related to dog bite injuries are performed annually.
A knowledgeable best Denver lawyer for dog bites will ensure all aspects of your damages are properly calculated, including:
Current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, psychological trauma and counseling, scarring and disfigurement, and your pain and suffering. Without legal help, many of these damages might go uncompensated.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Let’s be honest – insurance companies aren’t in business to pay out maximum claims. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to protect their bottom line, not your wellbeing.
When you work with a Denver dog bite lawyer, they handle all those stressful communications with insurance companies. They gather compelling evidence, push back against lowball settlement offers, negotiate for what you truly deserve, and if necessary, take your case to trial to fight for fair compensation.
Understanding of Local Courts and Procedures
There’s real value in local knowledge. A Denver attorney who regularly handles dog bite cases knows the local court system inside and out. They understand which judges might be assigned to your case and their tendencies in similar situations. They’ve built relationships with medical professionals who can provide expert testimony to strengthen your position.
Contingency Fee Arrangements
Worried about affording legal help when you’re already facing medical bills? Most Denver dog bite lawyers, including our team at William McBride Law Group, work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
You pay nothing upfront, attorney fees are paid only if you win your case, and the fee is typically a percentage (usually 20% to 40%) of your recovery amount. As required by Colorado Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5.pdf), these arrangements are always put in writing with clear explanations of how fees will be calculated.
This approach to legal fees means quality representation is available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation – exactly when you need it most.
Steps to Find the Right Denver Lawyer for Dog Bites
Finding the best denver lawyer for dog bites doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a thoughtful approach, you can connect with an attorney who truly understands what you’re going through and has the skills to help you.
1. Research Potential Attorneys
Start by creating a list of lawyers who handle dog bite cases in Denver. Think of this as laying the groundwork for your recovery journey.
“When I was bitten by my neighbor’s German Shepherd, I felt completely lost until I started researching attorneys who could help me,” shares Denver resident Maria T. “Just having a list of possibilities gave me hope.”
You can build your list through online legal directories, bar association referral services, recommendations from friends or family, or simply searching online for dog bite lawyers in Denver. Pay special attention to attorneys who specifically mention dog bite cases rather than just general personal injury practice.
2. Review Credentials and Experience
Once you have several names, it’s time to dig deeper. Look at each attorney’s background, including their education, years practicing law, and any professional recognitions they’ve received.
More importantly, examine their history with dog bite claims specifically. Have they handled cases similar to yours? What outcomes did they achieve? The William McBride Law Group, for instance, brings decades of experience in personal injury cases, including dog bites, across multiple states including Colorado.
3. Read Client Reviews and Testimonials
Nothing reveals more about an attorney than the experiences of past clients. Client testimonials can give you valuable insights into what working with a particular lawyer is really like.
One former client shared: “Vern was very attentive and handled our case with the utmost care. He listened to us and moved at a pace that we were comfortable with.”
Another noted: “I would highly recommend Mr. Benson as a lawyer! He is great at what he does and was very determined to help…”
Look specifically for reviews that mention dog bite cases, as these will be most relevant to your situation.
4. Schedule Consultations
Most dog bite lawyers in Denver offer free initial consultations. This is your opportunity to meet face-to-face and get a feel for how the attorney works.
During these meetings, you’ll want to discuss your case specifics, but also pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the attorney. Do they listen carefully? Do they explain things clearly? You’ll be working closely with this person during a challenging time in your life.
5. Prepare Questions for Your Consultation
To make the most of your consultation, come prepared with questions. Some helpful ones include:
- How many dog bite cases have you handled?
- What percentage of your practice focuses on dog bite cases?
- What’s your success rate with cases like mine?
- Will you personally handle my case or will associates be involved?
- How do you typically communicate with clients?
- What is your fee structure, and what expenses might I be responsible for?
Don’t be shy about asking these questions – a good attorney will appreciate your thoroughness.
Tips for Choosing a Denver Lawyer for Dog Bites
Experience with Dog Bite Cases
Look for an attorney who regularly handles dog bite cases in Colorado. This area of law has specific nuances that require dedicated knowledge.
Did you know that Labrador Retrievers accounted for 10% of reported dog bites in Denver in 2019, while Pit Bulls accounted for 7% despite being banned at that time? An attorney familiar with dog bite cases will understand how breed-specific considerations might affect your claim.
Success Record
While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, they can indicate an attorney’s effectiveness with dog bite claims. Some Denver attorneys have secured settlements of $500,000 or more for dog bite victims. The William McBride Law Group has consistently helped injury victims secure the compensation they deserve.
Communication Style
Pay attention to how the attorney communicates during your initial meeting. Do they explain legal concepts in everyday language? Do they listen to your concerns without rushing you? Your attorney should make you feel heard and respected throughout the process.
“I knew I found the right lawyer when she took the time to really listen to how the attack affected not just my physical health, but my ability to trust dogs again,” explains former dog bite victim James L.
Fee Structure
Most dog bite lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. However, the percentage can vary, typically between 25-40% of your settlement. Make sure you understand exactly how the fee works, including whether the percentage increases if your case goes to trial and who covers case expenses along the way.
Finding the right Denver lawyer for your dog bite case takes some effort, but it’s worth it. The attorney you choose can make all the difference in your recovery journey – both physically and financially.
William McBride Law Group: Advocating for Dog Bite Victims in Denver
If you’re looking for a best denver lawyer for dog bites, the William McBride Law Group brings something special to the table. We combine years of personal injury experience with a genuine understanding of how Colorado’s dog bite laws affect real people like you.
Dedicated Personal Injury Focus
At our firm, we don’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, we’ve chosen to focus on personal injury cases, including dog bites. This means we’ve spent years learning the ins and outs of these specific laws and how they apply to Denver residents.
Dog attacks hurt in more ways than one. Beyond the physical wounds, many victims—especially children—carry emotional scars long after the bite has healed. We see this reality every day, which is why we’re committed to helping bite victims get back on their feet.
Comprehensive Case Management
When you walk through our doors, we take the weight off your shoulders. Our approach covers everything:
We start by gathering every shred of evidence that matters—animal control reports, what witnesses saw, your medical records, and photos that document your injuries. We don’t miss details.
We also bring in trusted medical professionals who can explain your injuries in terms a judge and jury will understand, including what your recovery might look like down the road.
When it’s time to talk to insurance companies, we come prepared. Our team doesn’t just ask for fair compensation—we back it up with solid evidence and legal knowledge that makes your case hard to dismiss.
And while most cases settle outside the courtroom, we prepare yours as if it’s going all the way to trial. That way, we’re never caught off guard if negotiations don’t work out.
Client-Centered Approach
We believe your case is personal, so your legal help should be too. When you work with us:
You’ll talk directly with your attorney—not just assistants or paralegals. We provide regular updates so you’re never wondering what’s happening with your case. Legal talk can be confusing, so we explain everything in plain English, including your options and our strategy.
Got a question? We’ll get back to you promptly. And perhaps most importantly, you won’t pay legal fees unless we win your case. Your recovery should be your focus—not worrying about bills.
Multiple Office Locations
With offices in Denver, Seattle, Albuquerque, and Orlando, we’re accessible when you need us. Our Denver location serves clients throughout the metro area and nearby communities, making it convenient to get the help you need without traveling far from home.
Free Consultation Offer
Not sure if we’re the right fit? Let’s talk about it—for free. During your no-obligation consultation, we’ll:
Listen to your story about what happened, look over any documents you’ve collected, and explain which laws apply to your situation. We’ll discuss what kind of compensation might be possible and answer all your questions about what happens next. Before you leave, you’ll understand exactly how we’d approach your case if you choose to work with us.
Our firm combines the strength of a multi-state practice with the personal touch of a local Denver attorney. We understand the community, the courts, and the specific challenges dog bite victims face in Colorado. When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you steer the path to recovery and fair compensation.
You can learn more about our approach to dog bite cases on our Dog Bites page or explore our broader services on our Personal Injury Lawyers in Denver page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denver Lawyers for Dog Bites
How do contingency fee arrangements work with Denver dog bite lawyers?
When you’ve been bitten by a dog, the last thing you need is another bill to worry about. That’s why most Denver dog bite lawyers work on a contingency fee basis – which means you don’t pay unless they win your case.
Here’s the simple truth about contingency fees: you pay nothing upfront to hire an attorney. Your lawyer only gets paid if they secure money for you, whether through a settlement or court verdict. Their payment comes as a percentage of what you recover, typically between 20% and 40%.
“I was worried I couldn’t afford a lawyer after my dog bite injury,” shares Maria, a recent client. “Finding out I didn’t have to pay anything unless we won was such a relief during a stressful time.”
Colorado law requires these fee arrangements to be spelled out clearly in writing. This protection, outlined in Colorado Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5.pdf), ensures you’ll know exactly how your attorney’s fee will be calculated before you sign anything.
This payment structure creates a true partnership – your lawyer only succeeds when you do. As William McBride often tells clients, “Our interests are perfectly aligned with yours. We’re in this together.”
What compensation can I expect from a dog bite case in Denver?
Dog bite compensation varies widely depending on your specific situation, but it generally falls into two main categories:
Economic damages cover your actual financial losses. These include medical bills for emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications. They also cover future treatments you might need, like reconstructive surgeries or therapy. If you missed work, you can recover those lost wages too. And if your ability to earn money in the future is affected, that’s compensated as well.
Non-economic damages address the human cost of your injury – the pain, suffering, and emotional distress you’ve experienced. If you’ve been left with scars or permanent disfigurement, especially on visible areas like your face, you may receive additional compensation. These damages also acknowledge how your injury has changed your daily life and activities.
Sarah, who was attacked by a neighbor’s dog, shares: “The settlement covered not just my medical bills, but also compensated me for the anxiety I now feel around dogs and the scarring on my arm. My attorney made sure everything was accounted for.”
It’s worth noting that Colorado caps non-economic damages in most personal injury cases, though this amount is periodically adjusted. As of 2025, you should consult with your attorney for the most current cap amount.
While the average for dog bite settlements varies, cases involving serious injuries can result in much higher amounts – especially when children are victims or when permanent disfigurement occurs.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Denver?
The clock starts ticking the moment a dog bite occurs. In Colorado, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a legal claim, as established by Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-80-102.
This two-year deadline is strict, with only a few exceptions:
For children under 18, the timeframe may be extended until they reach adulthood, though parents can still file claims for medical expenses before then. In rare situations where an injury wasn’t immediately apparent, the two-year period might begin when the injury was finded.
While two years might sound like plenty of time, waiting too long can seriously hurt your case. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and surveillance footage gets deleted. As one client finded, “The apartment complex’s security camera that caught my dog bite was only kept for 30 days – if I’d waited any longer, that crucial evidence would have been gone forever.”
The bottom line? While you have two years to file, contacting a best denver lawyer for dog bites much sooner gives you the strongest chance for a successful claim.
What happens if the dog’s owner says I provoked the dog?
“You were teasing my dog!” It’s a common defense in dog bite cases, and one you should be prepared for. Colorado follows modified comparative negligence laws, which means if you’re found partially responsible for provoking the dog, your compensation might be reduced.
For example, if you accidentally stepped on a dog’s tail and are found 10% responsible, you might recover 90% of your damages. However, if you’re deemed more than 50% at fault, you could be barred from receiving any compensation at all.
A good dog bite attorney knows how to counter these claims by gathering witness testimony, obtaining the dog’s history of aggressive behavior, and sometimes working with animal behavior experts who can analyze what really happened.
“The owner claimed I provoked their German Shepherd by reaching over the fence,” recalls Michael from Denver. “My attorney found two neighbors who witnessed the attack and confirmed I was simply walking by when the dog lunged at me.”
What if the dog that bit me doesn’t have a history of aggression?
Good news – under Colorado’s dog bite statute, it doesn’t matter if Fido has been a perfect angel until now. For serious injuries, owners can be held strictly liable even if their dog has never shown aggression before.
This means that even for a first-time incident, the owner can be responsible if the bite caused serious bodily injury and you were lawfully on public or private property at the time.
For less serious injuries that don’t qualify as “serious bodily injury” under the law, you’ll need to show the owner was negligent in controlling their dog. A skilled attorney can help gather evidence to support this claim.
Do I need a lawyer if the dog owner’s insurance company offers a settlement?
When an insurance adjuster calls with a settlement offer, it can be tempting to accept and put the whole ordeal behind you. But here’s what they don’t tell you: that first offer is almost always low – sometimes drastically so.
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their job is to save their employer money by settling claims for as little as possible.
“The insurance company offered me $5,000 the week after my attack,” remembers Jennifer. “It seemed like a lot until my attorney showed me that just my scheduled surgeries would cost over $25,000, not counting physical therapy and lost wages. We eventually settled for $85,000.”
A dog bite lawyer can accurately value your claim, accounting for all current and future costs. They can also ensure that hard-to-quantify damages like pain and suffering are properly valued. Perhaps most importantly, they can protect you from signing away rights to future compensation if your condition worsens.
What if the dog bite occurred at someone’s home?
If Rover bit you while you were lawfully at someone’s home – whether as an invited guest, delivery person, or service provider – you generally have the right to seek compensation. The good news is that most homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bite liability, typically with limits between $100,000 and $300,000.
However, some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with previous aggressive incidents. In these situations, a lawyer can help identify all possible sources of compensation, which might include the owner’s personal assets, umbrella insurance policies, or even landlord liability if the owner was renting.
“I was bitten by my friend’s dog during a barbecue,” shares David. “It was awkward, but my attorney handled everything professionally with their insurance company. Our friendship survived, and my medical bills got paid.”
Even if the dog owner is a friend or family member, their insurance company – not them personally – typically covers the claim. A good attorney can help steer these sensitive situations while preserving relationships.
Conclusion
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack, the last thing you need is more stress. Finding the right legal help shouldn’t add to your burden – it should lift it.
Dog bites in Denver aren’t just painful physically; they can bite into your finances too. Medical bills pile up quickly, especially when you’re missing work to attend doctor appointments. And let’s not forget the emotional toll – many people develop lasting anxiety around dogs after an attack.
That’s why choosing the best Denver lawyer for dog bites is so crucial. The right attorney doesn’t just understand Colorado’s complex dog bite laws; they know how to apply them to your specific situation. They’ll handle the paperwork, the evidence gathering, and those frustrating insurance company calls while you focus on healing.
Remember what we discussed about Colorado’s two-year statute of limitations? That clock starts ticking the moment the incident occurs. While two years might seem like plenty of time, building a strong case takes careful preparation. Waiting too long can leave you with fewer options and potentially weaker evidence.
When selecting your legal representation, look beyond flashy advertisements. Consider their real-world experience with dog bite cases, their track record of securing fair settlements, and how comfortable you feel when speaking with them. After all, you’ll be sharing personal details about your injury and recovery – trust matters.
The William McBride Law Group brings decades of personal injury experience to the table, with a warm, client-focused approach that puts your needs first. With offices right here in Denver, we understand the local courts, insurance companies, and what it takes to build compelling dog bite cases in Colorado.
Our team is ready to meet with you, listen to your story, and help you understand all your options – with no upfront costs. We work on contingency, which means we only get paid when you do. It’s that simple.
Taking that first step toward legal help is often the hardest, but it’s also the most important. A single phone call can set you on the path to physical, emotional, and financial recovery. Don’t shoulder this burden alone when compassionate, knowledgeable help is available.
Contact the William McBride Law Group today for your free consultation. Let’s start working together toward the compensation you deserve and the peace of mind you need after a traumatic dog bite incident. Your recovery journey doesn’t have to be a solo trip – we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.