Home - Dog Bite Attorney

Dog Bite Cases in Poughkeepsie, NY


You've been bitten by a dog or injured by an animal. At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, we're here to help.

It's ALWAYS worth a phone call to see if you may have a case. Remember: we don't get paid unless you do! Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about dog bite lawsuits:

If I am bitten by a dog, is the owner automatically responsible?
The owner is not automatically responsible unless either:

  • The dog bites you while off a leash and not on the owner's property.
  • The owner had prior knowledge that the dog had some "vicious propensities".

What if it's on a leash on the owner's property?
It doesn't matter where the attack takes place.

What is the one-bite rule; is it true?

People think you have to prove the dog has bitten someone before, but that is not true. You need to prove that the dog had "vicious propensity" and that it had put people in a situation where they were fearful for their safety.

Do I have to be bitten? Can it be a situation where an animal has caused me harm?

If you were fleeing from a dangerous dog or animal, you may still have a case. You may have scarring, infection, or broken bones from running/trying to escape: these situations are serious and you should get legal counsel from us at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP.

Is it true that I must prove that the dog bit somebody else before me?

No. It is only necessary that you show that the owner had prior knowledge of the dog's vicious propensities. Although the fact that a dog bit somebody before you may be the best way of showing vicious propensities, it can also be shown in other ways, such as the fact that the dog would often growl or bark at strangers, strain at his leash and that there were "Beware of Dog" signs on the property, etc.

You should always meet the lawyer who will actually handle your case to make sure you feel comfortable. At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, we treat our clients like family. We are a father-daughter team of dog bite attorneys with many happy clients who can speak to our integrity, our expertise, and our compassion.

Disclaimer: The use of the internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.


Office Location

One Civic Center Plaza
Suite 541
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601