Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney

Sunset West Legal Group, PC represents dog bite victims across Los Angeles and California, and has recovered over $150 million for injury clients. California holds dog owners strictly liable for bites under Civil Code §3342, and founding partner Payton Kashani uses that law to secure compensation, usually paid by the owner’s insurance rather than the owner personally. We work on a no win, no fee basis and offer free consultations. Available 24/7. Hablamos Español.

Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyers and California’s Strict Liability Law

California law strongly favours dog bite victims, and understanding that is the first step to recovery. Sunset West Legal Group uses the state’s strict liability rule to hold owners accountable and to reach the insurance that pays these claims.

Dog bites are far more common than most people realise. Around 4.7 million people are bitten each year in the United States, and roughly 1,000 people a day need emergency treatment.

The injuries are often serious and lasting. Bites to the face may require expensive reconstructive surgery, and the emotional trauma, especially in children, can last a lifetime. The majority of dog bites involve children, and those injuries can shape a child’s life for years.

Over $150 million recovered. More than 200 five-star reviews. No fee unless we win. Available 24/7. Hablamos Español.

California Holds Dog Owners Strictly Liable

Under California Civil Code §3342, a dog owner is strictly liable when their dog bites someone. That means the owner is responsible regardless of whether the dog ever showed aggression before, and you do not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

This is one of the most victim-friendly dog bite laws in the country. California rejects the “one-bite rule” that protects owners in some states, where a first bite can escape liability. Here, the first bite is enough.

Strict liability applies when the bite happened in a public place, or while you were lawfully on private property. Invited guests are covered, and so are people there to do a job, such as a mail carrier or a utility worker.

One limit matters: the rule applies to bites. If a dog injures you another way, by knocking you down for instance, that claim proceeds under ordinary negligence rather than strict liability. We identify the right basis for your specific case.

The Awkward Truth: Most Bites Involve a Dog You Know

Only 15 to 20% of dog bites involve a stranger’s dog. Far more often, the victim knows both the dog and its owner, which puts many people in the difficult position of considering a claim against a friend, a neighbour, or a relative.

Here is what changes that calculation. A dog bite claim is almost always covered by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, so the compensation comes from an insurance company, not out of your friend’s pocket. An experienced attorney can often settle directly with the insurer, without a lawsuit against the person you know.

In some cases a landlord may also share liability, and a fatal attack can give rise to a wrongful death claim.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

The steps you take after a bite protect both your health and your claim.

Seek medical treatment first. A puncture wound will usually need antibiotics and may need sutures, and if the dog cannot be identified or the owner cannot prove vaccination, treatment against rabies may be necessary.

Then protect the claim. Photograph your injuries and the dog. If the owner is absent or unknown, contact animal control or the police. Identify the breed if you can, and write down a detailed description if you cannot.

As of 2025, a dog bite that needs medical treatment must be reported to animal control or law enforcement within 72 hours. Missing that window does not end your right to bring a civil claim, but reporting promptly helps your case.

Why Injured Clients Choose Sunset West Legal Group

Sunset West Legal Group has recovered over $150 million for injured clients across California. Founding partner Payton Kashani has been licensed in California since 2012 and named to Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars list every year from 2018 to 2022. Attorney Josh Teller supports the firm’s cases and holds Rising Stars recognition for 2025 and 2026.

We advise you at every step, deal with the insurer on your behalf, and try cases before a jury when an insurer refuses to pay fair value. Every injury case is different, and we treat yours that way.

Bitten by a Dog in Los Angeles? Talk to Us Today

Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win. Our team is available 24/7 to review your case and explain your options.

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