Dog Bite Lawyer Monmouth County NJ | SRIS, P.C.
Dog Bite Lawyer in Monmouth County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
If you were bitten by a dog in Monmouth County, New Jersey, you need a dedicated dog bite lawyer. New Jersey follows a strict liability statute for dog bites under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, meaning an owner is liable even if the dog had no prior vicious history. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Dog Bite Law
New Jersey’s dog bite statute imposes strict liability on dog owners. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, the owner of a dog is liable for the full amount of damages suffered by a person who is bitten by that dog, regardless of the dog’s former viciousness or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness. This law applies when the victim is in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner. This is a powerful legal standard for victims, removing the need to prove the owner was negligent.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s dog bite statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and forms, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Monmouth Vicinage website.
Handling a Dog Bite Claim in Monmouth County
Dog bite cases in Monmouth County are typically filed in the Superior Court, Law Division, in Freehold. The process involves specific steps to preserve evidence and establish liability. A key local procedural fact is that while the statute provides for strict liability, New Jersey’s comparative negligence law (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1) can still reduce your recovery if you are found partially at fault for provoking the dog. It is critical to act quickly to document the scene and your injuries.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Medical records will directly link your injuries to the incident.
- Report the Bite: Report the dog bite to the local animal control agency and the Monmouth County Health Department to create an official record.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible. Collect contact information for the owner and any witnesses.
- Preserve Communications: Do not discuss fault or give a detailed statement to the dog owner’s insurance company before consulting an attorney.
- Consult a Dog Bite Attorney: Contact a lawyer to evaluate your claim, identify all liable parties, and ensure you meet the two-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in New Jersey.
Potential Damages in a Dog Bite Case
In Monmouth County, a dog bite can result in compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, scarring, and emotional distress.
| Type of Damage | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Tangible financial losses with receipts. | Hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, lost wages. |
| Non-Economic Damages | Compensation for intangible losses. | Pain and suffering, emotional trauma, permanent scarring, disfigurement. |
| Other Costs | Incidental expenses related to the injury. | Travel to medical appointments, costs of future cosmetic surgery. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Dog Bite Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to personal injury claims like dog bites. Our firm-wide experience of over 120 combined years and thousands of case results informs our strategy for each client. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious dog attack can take on a victim and their family.
Our Commitment to Clients in Monmouth County
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is committed to advocating for dog bite victims. We handle the legal details so you can focus on recovery. Our approach involves a thorough investigation, consultation with medical experts to understand long-term effects, and aggressive negotiation with insurance providers to seek a fair settlement.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Dog Bite Lawyer Near Monmouth County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Monmouth County courts in Freehold. We represent victims in Freehold, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Long Branch, Asbury Park, Middletown, Holmdel, Marlboro, Manalapan, Howell, Wall Township, Neptune, and Colts Neck.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 292-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Dog Bite Lawyer FAQs for Monmouth County
Does New Jersey have a “one-bite” rule for dog attacks?
No. New Jersey has a strict liability statute (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16). A dog owner is liable for injuries from a bite even if the dog never bit anyone before and the owner had no reason to believe it was dangerous.
What if I was partially at fault for the dog bite?
It depends. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found 50% or less at fault (e.g., for provoking the dog), your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found more than 50% at fault, you are barred from recovery.
Who can be held liable for a dog bite in New Jersey?
The dog’s owner is primarily liable under the statute. In some cases, a property owner or landlord may also be liable if they knew a dangerous dog was on the premises and failed to take action to protect others.
What is the deadline to file a dog bite lawsuit in NJ?
Two years. The statute of limitations for personal injury, including dog bites, in New Jersey is two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file a lawsuit within this time frame will likely result in your claim being dismissed.
What compensation can I recover from a dog bite?
You can seek compensation for medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and permanent scarring or disfigurement resulting from the attack.
Related Legal Information
If you need a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer, visit our state hub. For help in nearby areas, consider our Bergen County Personal Injury Lawyer or Burlington County Personal Injury Lawyer. For other legal needs in Monmouth County, we also assist with business law and DUI defense.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.