Dog Bite Lawyer in Minnetonka

Direct Attorney Guidance After Bites, Attacks & Knock-Down Injuries

A dog attack can cause puncture wounds, infection, fractures, nerve damage, scarring, and emotional trauma. A person may also be injured when a dog knocks them down or causes a fall during a chase, even if the dog never breaks the skin.

We represent Minnetonka residents, visitors, and families dealing with medical treatment, insurance questions, missed work, and lasting trauma after these incidents. Robert S. Butwinick personally handles each case, connecting the immediate evidence to the injury’s full effect on your health and daily life.

Call (763) 415-7462 to discuss the attack with our injury law firm and get clear guidance on your next steps.

When Minnesota Law Holds a Dog Owner Liable

Minnesota Statute § 347.22 generally makes a dog owner liable when the dog, without provocation, attacks or injures someone acting peaceably in a place where that person may lawfully be. This is commonly called strict liability. A claim doesn’t depend on proving that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

The statute applies to injuries caused by an attack, not just traditional bite wounds. Whether it applies in a particular case depends on the circumstances.

Important liability issues may include:

• Lawful presence: The injured person must have been in a place where they had a legal right to be.
• Peaceable conduct: The person must have been acting peaceably when the injury occurred.
• Provocation: Minnesota law generally defines provocation as an act that an adult could reasonably expect to cause a dog to attack or bite.
• Prior aggression: The statute doesn’t require proof that the dog previously attacked someone or displayed aggressive behavior.

Compensation After a Dog Attack

A claim may account for the financial and personal effects supported by the evidence. Its scope and potential value depend on the injuries, treatment history, documented losses, and circumstances of the attack.

Potential losses may include:

• Past and reasonably anticipated medical expenses
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Physical pain and emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Continuing psychological care or medical treatment

Children may require particular attention when an injury affects the face, physical growth, school participation, or long-term emotional well-being. Photographs, treatment records, and observations from parents or caregivers can document those effects over time.