Animal Attack Lawyer in Passaic County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
An animal attack in Passaic County can cause severe injuries under New Jersey’s strict liability laws. If a dog or other animal bites you, you may face medical bills, lost wages, and lasting trauma. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused legal help for animal attack victims in Paterson, Clifton, and throughout Passaic County, NJ.
New Jersey Animal Attack Laws
New Jersey law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries their pets cause, as outlined in the state’s dog bite statute, N.J.S.A. 4:19-16. This means an owner is responsible for injuries even if the dog had no prior vicious history. For other animals, liability may be based on negligence, requiring proof the owner knew of the animal’s dangerous propensities. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including for animal attacks, is two years from the date of the incident.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Passaic 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). Court procedures and forms for Passaic County can be found at the Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage website.
Local Process for an Animal Attack Claim in Passaic County
Animal attack claims in Passaic County are filed in the Superior Court, Law Division, in Paterson. The process begins with gathering evidence, including medical records, photos of injuries, witness statements, and reports from Paterson or local township animal control. New Jersey’s modified comparative negligence rule applies, meaning your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you are barred from recovery if found more than 50% at fault.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Your health is the priority. Document all injuries and follow all treatment plans.
- Report the Incident: File a report with the local animal control agency (e.g., Paterson Department of Health) to create an official record.
- Gather Evidence: Collect contact information for the owner and any witnesses. Take photographs of your injuries, the location, and the animal if safe.
- Consult an Animal Attack Attorney: Contact an animal attack lawyer Passaic County NJ to evaluate liability and the full value of your claim, including future medical needs.
- File a Lawsuit if Necessary: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will file a complaint in the Passaic County Superior Court before the two-year deadline.
Potential Damages in an Animal Attack Case
In Passaic County, an animal attack can lead to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and permanent scarring.
| Type of Damage | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Quantifiable financial losses | Hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, lost wages |
| Non-Economic Damages | Compensation for non-financial harm | Pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement |
| Punitive Damages | Rare; intended to punish egregious conduct | May apply if owner knowingly harbored a vicious animal |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Injury Cases
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to personal injury law. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, has a background that aids in evaluating the full impact of an injury. We handle animal attack cases with an understanding of New Jersey’s strict liability laws and the local court system in Passaic County.
Contact Our Passaic County Animal Attack Law Firm
If you or a family member has been injured by a dog or other animal in Passaic County, contact our animal attack law firm Passaic County NJ for a case review. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 200-6646
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Passaic County, including Paterson, Clifton, Wayne, and Passaic City. We are accessible via I-80 and Route 46. Looking for an animal attack lawyer near Passaic County? Call us for a consultation.
Animal Attack Lawyer Passaic County NJ FAQ
What should I do immediately after an animal attack in New Jersey?
Yes. Seek medical attention immediately, even for small wounds, to prevent infection and document the injury. Report the attack to local animal control, get the owner’s information, and take photos of your injuries and the location. Then, contact an animal attack attorney Passaic County NJ to discuss your legal options.
Is the owner always liable for a dog bite in Passaic County?
Yes, in most cases. New Jersey has a strict liability statute for dog bites (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16). The owner is liable if the bite occurs in a public place or while you are lawfully on private property, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior. Exceptions exist if you were trespassing or provoking the dog.
How long do I have to file an animal attack lawsuit in NJ?
Two years. The statute of limitations for personal injury from an animal attack in New Jersey is two years from the date of the incident. Missing this deadline will almost certainly bar you from filing a lawsuit to recover damages.
What if I was partially at fault for the animal attack?
It depends. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the incident, you cannot recover any damages.
What kind of compensation can I recover?
You may recover economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress). In cases involving severe, permanent injuries like scarring or disfigurement, compensation for future medical care and reduced quality of life may also be sought.
Related Pages: For other legal services in Passaic County, see our business lawyer or DUI lawyer pages. For more on personal injury in New Jersey, visit our state hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Bergen County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on your animal attack case in Passaic County, NJ.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.