Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Pennsylvania

PA Dog Law

My neighbors dog was without leash and attacked my dog. I contacted the police and a warning was given to neighbor.

My dog now hates the dog and one night got loose from his chain and fought the dog through a gate. I received a warning from police and neighbor told them he is doing this to get revenge.

My other dog escaped (because my 19 month old opened door) and walked through neighbors yard yesterday and I captured him. Neighbor called cops and now I got a citation.

Can I claim that I had due care as it was unsuspecting the child opened the door? There was no damage by the dog therefore no liability.

Also, if I plead not guilty and win can I seek Compensatory damages because of time spent researching law, missing work for hearing, etc.? And if so, how do I go about that?


Asked on 8/19/08, 2:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
John Davidson Law Office of John A. Davidson

Re: PA Dog Law

Are you fighting a citation or a claim from your neighbor?

If its a citation the opposing party is the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Further, you can't counterclaim against them if for no other reason its a criminal offense.

Why on earth would you be entitled to compensatory damages?

If you have any questions feel free to contact me. The initial consultation is free.

{John}

Read more
Answered on 8/19/08, 2:55 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More General Civil Litigation questions and answers in Pennsylvania