When Animals Cause Serious Legal Trouble
Owners of companion animals or horses are often unaware that they can become defendants facing criminal charges when their animals get in trouble. For example, a dog owner may not have taken seriously the letters they received from the local government or authority regarding their dog barking. A horse owner may ignore warnings made by others at the barn. A person may have ignored zoning requirements regarding feral cats in their garage or failed to follow all requirements when their dog was declared potentially dangerous. Owners can face criminal charges for something as simple as dropping a leash when the owner tripped, or when someone unexpectedly opens a door, causing the family dog to get loose and bite or attack another.
Animal Misdemeanor Charges
When a dog gets into trouble, the dog’s owner or person responsible for the dog may face a criminal charge. The individuals involved may not appreciate how their own behavior following the incident could increase the likelihood of this happening. It is best to let Barbara immediately help you assess the situation and patiently assist you to avoid escalating serious consequences.
When you are subject to a misdemeanor, or a more serious offense, Barbara will work hard to build a strong defense for your case. She can help you understand the charges against you, obtain the police reports, and obtain the prosecution file. She will advocate for an advantageous plea deal on your behalf, a lesser charge, or reduced penalty, but be ready to go to trial to achieve a fair result. The state has the obligation of proving its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and you are entitled to a presumption of innocence.
General good advice, until you can meet with Barbara, is to confine your animal, be courteous and cooperative in sharing your contact information with others, collect the names and contact information of eyewitnesses, and if a dog bite is involved, expect to quarantine your animal to rule out a rabies infection. Let Barbara help you at the beginning of this slippery slope.
Talk to a Lawyer Who Knows Animal Law
Call the Twin Cities Law Office of Barbara J. Gislason at 763-220-2983 or email the firm to arrange a consultation. The firm serves clients statewide, including in Anoka County, Hennepin County, and Ramsey Counties.