Practice Area
California Dog Bite Lawyer
California law is on the side of dog bite victims. We make sure the owner, and their insurance company, are held to it.
40+ Years
Of personal injury experience
Insider
Former insurance defense attorney
Direct
You work with John, not a case manager
$0 Upfront
No fee unless we win
Bilingual
Se habla español
Statewide
Representing clients across California
More Than a Bite
Dog attacks can cause deep puncture wounds, nerve damage, infections, and permanent scarring, along with lasting fear and trauma. Children are especially vulnerable, and facial injuries are common.
California’s Strict Liability Rule
Under California law, a dog owner is generally responsible when their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property, even if the dog never showed aggression before. California has no “one free bite” rule. In many cases, the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance pays the claim.
How We Help
- Identify the owner and every applicable insurance policy
- Obtain animal control reports and the dog’s history
- Document injuries, scarring, and future plastic surgery or counseling needs
- Evaluate claims against landlords or property owners where appropriate
- Handle all negotiations with the insurance company
Injuries We See
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Infections
- Nerve and tendon damage
- Facial injuries and permanent scarring
- Fractures from being knocked down
- Emotional trauma and anxiety
What to Do After a Dog Bite
- Get medical treatment right away
- Report the bite to local animal control
- Get the owner’s name, address, and the dog’s vaccination information
- Photograph your injuries as they heal
- Speak with an attorney before talking to the owner’s insurer
FAQ
Dog Bite Questions
The owner says the dog never bit anyone before. Does that matter?
Generally, no. California has no “one free bite” rule. Owners are usually responsible for bites in public places or when the victim is lawfully on private property.
I was bitten at the owner’s home. Do I have a claim?
If you were lawfully there, such as an invited guest or a delivery worker, California’s strict liability rule can still apply.
Who actually pays for a dog bite claim?
In many cases, the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy pays, not the owner personally.
Free Consultation
Speak Directly with John
No fee unless we win. No obligation.
- 40+ years of personal injury experience
- Former insurance defense attorney
- John personally handles your case
- Serving all of California, in English and Spanish
Why The JVB Law Firm
What Sets Our Firm Apart
01
John Handles Your Case
At many firms, your file is passed to a case manager. Here, John personally reviews the evidence, talks with you, and makes the decisions on your case.
02
We Know the Other Side
John spent years defending insurance companies. He knows how adjusters value claims and the tactics they use to pay less, and he plans for them from day one.
03
Bilingual, No Upfront Cost
We serve clients in English and Spanish across California. You pay nothing upfront, and there is no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you.
John’s Advantage
Insider Experience Most Law Firms Can’t Match
For decades, John defended insurance companies. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for the people they tried to underpay.
Most injury lawyers know how to file a claim. John knows how insurance companies try to defeat one. With 40+ years of experience and rare insurance-defense insight, John understands how insurers evaluate injuries, minimize losses, and pressure victims before they know the true value of their case.
For catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, that insight can make the difference between a quick low offer and a fight for full, fair compensation. And at The JVB Law Firm, John personally handles your case.
Client Reviews
What Our Clients Say
★★★★★
“I have not found a firm in California where the ATTORNEY HIMSELF handles your case, and that’s what initially drew me to work with him… Thank you John for always having my back.”
Luis Reina
Google Review
★★★★★
“I am forever grateful!!! My daughter was a victim of a hit and run. John helped her efficiently and effectively. If you’re looking for a great firm this is it!! Thank you!!”
Yadira Campos
Google Review
★★★★★
“Having worked with numerous personal injury attorneys and law firms over the years, I can confidently say that John and his team stand out for their professionalism, communication, and commitment to their clients.”
Heather Padilla
Google Review · Healthcare Provider
Affiliations & Memberships
Free Consultation
Bitten by a Dog? Speak with John Today.
Find out what your claim may be worth. No fee unless we win.
Attorney Advertising. This page is general information, not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.