Dog Bite Attorney in Boston, MA
If you or someone you love has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Boston, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston dog bite lawyers provide results-driven legal representation for victims of serious dog attacks. Whether the bite occurred in a public park, someone’s private property, or a commercial area, we have the experience to help you pursue justice and recovery.
Serving clients across Massachusetts - including Boston and Pembroke
Why Choose Dolan Connly, P.C. for Your Dog Bite Case?
A dog bite can leave behind more than physical scars—it can result in serious medical complications, emotional trauma, and financial strain. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston dog bite attorneys understand the legal complexities of these cases and are ready to provide strategic, attentive representation from day one.
Here is why dog bite victims in Boston trust our firm:
- Specialized Legal Knowledge: Our team has deep experience handling Massachusetts dog bite cases, and we stay current on all statutes and case law impacting victims’ rights.
- Veteran-Owned Values: Discipline, accountability, and integrity guide everything we do. As a veteran-owned firm, we apply the same commitment to your case as we would to a mission.
- Thorough Case Management: We handle all aspects of your claim, from securing medical records and police reports to negotiating with insurance adjusters, so you can focus on recovery.
- Client-Centered Representation: Every dog bite incident is unique. We take the time to understand your story, the extent of your injuries, and how the incident has impacted your life.
When you choose Dolan Connly, P.C., you are working with a team that values results, transparency, and the pursuit of justice. We are dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve, so you can begin the process of healing and rebuilding your life. Let us guide you through this difficult time with the experience and care you need.
Dolan Connly, P.C.’s Recent Injury Settlements
$1,006,330.03
Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY represented a client who was a former MBTA trolley operator and a member of the affiliated Union. She alleged in her lawsuit filed in Suffolk Superior Court that the Union had not advocated for her by failing to take her case to arbitration after she was wrongfully terminated by the MBTA. The client was a native of Haiti and alleged that this failure by the Union to advocate on her behalf, was based on her race and national origin. The client had been the subject of egregious discrimination from some members of the Union.
The trial began on October 29, 2018 in Suffolk Superior Court. The jury found in favor of the client and awarded her $490,500.00 in emotional distress damages. Prejudgment interest of $179,771.19 and statutory costs were added to the verdict bringing the total amount of the judgment to $670,556.19. The Judge then allowed an additional award of attorney’s fees in the amount of $150,000.00 plus $8,733.40 in costs. The total amount of the judgment and fees owed to the client after the Superior Court trial was $829,289.59. The Union then appealed the verdict to the Massachusetts Court of Appeals. Greg Connly represented the client during the entire appeal process. On August 4, 2020, a decision came down from the Massachusetts Appeals Court. The Appeals Court upheld the Superior Court judgment. Further, the Appeals Court awarded attorney’s fees in the Appeals Court case in the amount of $27,355.00. Post-judgment interest that accrued during the appeal was also added.
On November 24, 2020, the Union paid to the client the amount of $1,006,330.03.
This case that was handled by Attorney Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY went from one on the verge of dismissal, to one in which there was a recovery in excess of a million dollars. No settlement offer had ever been made by the Union prior to the Superior Court trial.
$4,426,180.35
Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY tried a case in September of 2018 in the Worcester Superior Court. The case alleged chiropractic malpractice. The plaintiff/client was an 81-year-old gentleman who had a manipulation to adjust his pelvis done by the defendant/chiropractor. The negligent performance of this manipulation resulted in the breaking of his prosthetic knee. The client reported that he heard an audible popping sound and felt immediate pain at the time of the adjustment. The prosthetic knee had to be surgically repaired fourteen days later. The chiropractor testified that he had no memory of the treatment and he testified that he did not perform the adjustment described by the client. Greg Connly and Barbara Connly of DOLAN CONNLY worked on the case for over seven years. During the trial, Greg Connly put together the facts and expert testimony supporting the client’s position into a coherent credible case for the jury.
On September 14, 2018, the Worcester Superior Court jury came back with a verdict in favor of the plaintiff/client. DOLAN CONNLY’S client was awarded $750,000.00 in past and future medical expenses and $3,000,000.00 in pain and suffering. Including interest, the total judgment was $4,426,180.35. No offer had ever been made by the defense to settle the case. The verdict was appealed by the defense attorney. The case resolved during the appeal process with the 88-year-old client receiving a significant financial settlement, above and beyond any other comparable Massachusetts settlement or verdict for such injuries. Click here to see the actual court docket.
$3,680,187.78
Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY tried a case in the Brockton Superior Court in November of 2011. The plaintiff/client was a forty-two-year-old chef working for a third-party food service company at the defendant’s corporate cafeteria. The plaintiff sustained an electric shock when a dishwasher, provided for his use by the defendant, malfunctioned when he pressed the off button on the control panel. The machine was leaking water that came in contact with a live electrical circuit behind the control panel. Greg Connly was able to prove at trial that the defendant corporation was responsible for maintenance of the dishwasher and that it was in a hazardous and unsafe condition. It was discovered that the dishwasher had various mechanical problems after its initial installation and employees of the defendant failed to properly maintain it. The plaintiff suffered a traumatic brain injury, major depression, panic disorder, cognitive impairment and post-traumatic stress disorder. Following the electric shock, the plaintiff who had received excellent work reviews over the years, struggled at his job due to the effects of the traumatic brain injury. He never regained his previous high-level functioning in his occupation and was forced to stop working altogether.
On November 29, 2011, the Brockton Superior Court jury came back with a verdict in favor of the plaintiff/client. DOLAN CONNLY’S client was awarded $2,500,000.00 in past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost earning capacity. Including interest in the amount of $1,180,187.78, the final award was $3,680,187.78. The last offer by the defendant corporation to settle the case before trial was $50,000.00. The verdict was appealed by the defense, but the judgement was paid in full after the trial transcripts were reviewed by appellate counsel. Click here to see the actual court docket.
$475,000.00
A client from Reading was injured when his vehicle was struck by another vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on a one-way street. Our client suffered a worsening of a pre-existing cervical disc protrusion that required surgical repair, as well as injuries to his lower back. He received an insurance claim settlement of $475,000.00. This amount represented the total motor vehicle insurance policy limit for the at-fault driver in the amount of $250,000.00, plus $225,000.00 from an umbrella insurance policy.
$750,000.00
A client from Windham, NH sustained a dog bite in the course of his employment as an electrician. The client was working on an electrical project outside a home when he was asked by the homeowner to enter the home to look at another project. The homeowner did not restrain his Weimaraner dog while our client was in the home, despite knowing the dog was not comfortable with unfamiliar people being present in the residence. When our client was in the process of walking from one room to another, the dog unexpectedly bit him in the back of his leg. The client tried to get the dog to unlock its grip on his leg and in the process, he twisted his back. In addition to the dog bite, the client sustained significant injuries to his low back, hip and groin, including radiating pain into his legs and feet. The client underwent treatment including fusion surgery to his back and hip surgery to repair a labral tear. We represented the client in litigation filed against the homeowner. This litigation was settled during mediation for $750,000.00.
Over the years, our dog bite attorneys in Boston have recovered substantial settlements for victims of dog bites and animal attacks. These settlements have covered medical expenses, emotional trauma, and long-term disability associated with dog-related injuries. Boston personal injury lawyers at Dolan Connly, P.C. work diligently to ensure every client receives fair compensation reflective of the full scope of their damages.
What Damages Can You Claim in a Dog Bite Case in Boston?
In Massachusetts, victims of dog bites have strong legal protections. The law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, meaning you don’t need to prove negligence, only that the dog caused your injuries. If you have been bitten or attacked, you may be entitled to a wide range of damages, especially if your injuries are severe or have lasting effects.
A Boston dog bite lawyer at our firm will work with you to assess the total value of your claim and help you pursue the maximum compensation. Common types of damages we pursue on behalf of dog bite victims include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgery, medications, wound care, physical therapy, psychological counseling, and any future medical needs related to the attack.
- Lost Wages & Earning Capacity: If the injury prevents you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you can recover compensation for lost income and any reduction in your future earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress caused by the attack. Many victims develop a long-lasting fear of dogs or public places.
- Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement: Dog bites frequently result in visible scarring, often on the face, arms, or legs. If the injury alters your appearance, you may be entitled to additional damages for disfigurement and the psychological impact it causes.
- Long-Term Disability or Impairment: Severe bites can cause nerve damage, infections, or mobility issues. In some cases, the effects are permanent, requiring long-term care, assistance, or home modifications.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries interfere with hobbies, physical activity, or day-to-day living, this loss can be factored into your claim.
Our legal team works alongside medical experts, vocational specialists, plastic surgeons, and financial analysts to build a clear, well-supported case that reflects the true cost of your injuries, now and in the future. Speak to a dog bite lawyer in Boston and let Dolan Connly, P.C. advocate for your full recovery.
Types of Dog Bite Cases We Handle at Dolan Connly, P.C.
Dog bite incidents are rarely straightforward. Each case comes with its own unique set of circumstances, legal challenges, and emotional impact. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston dog bite attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of Massachusetts law and bring decades of collective experience to investigating the cause of an attack, identifying liable parties, and building a compelling case.
We represent clients across a wide range of dog bite scenarios, including:
- Attacks on children
- Bites occurring on private property
- Leash law violations
- Vicious or known dangerous dogs
- Dog bites in public places (parks, sidewalks, etc.)
- Attacks on postal workers or delivery personnel
- Landlord negligence in multi-unit buildings
- Emotional support or service animals that are aggressive
Hiring the right dog bite lawyer in Boston can make all the difference. At Dolan Connly, P.C., we go beyond basic representation—we dig into the details, work with top experts, and build strong, strategic cases designed to secure maximum compensation.
Our commitment to results and personalized advocacy has earned the trust of dog bite victims across Boston. Clients turn to us not just for our legal skill, but for the genuine care we bring to every case. In addition to dog bite claims, we proudly represent clients in a broad spectrum of personal injury matters throughout Boston:
What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Boston, MA?
Dog bites can be traumatic, painful, and legally complex. In Massachusetts, your actions in the first few hours and days following an attack can greatly influence your ability to receive full and fair compensation. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our dog bite lawyers in Boston guide clients through this critical early period with precision. This is what you should do to protect both your health and legal rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Dog bites carry high infection risk and can require urgent care, even for minor-looking wounds. Make sure your medical provider notes in your record that the injury was the result of a dog bite. This detail is critical for proving causation.
- Report the Incident – File a report with Boston Animal Control and/or the local police department as soon as possible. This triggers an investigation into the dog’s vaccination status, prior bite history, and the owner’s liability.
- Document the Scene – If you are physically able, gather as much information as possible. Take photos of your injuries, the dog (if possible), the location, and any witnesses or bystanders.
- Avoid Confrontation – Resist the urge to negotiate or argue with the dog’s owner. Anything said in the heat of the moment could be used to discredit or undermine your claim. Leave communication to the authorities and your legal team.
- Contact a Boston Dog Bite Lawyer – Legal representation is critical, especially if the dog owner or their insurer disputes your claim. Massachusetts has strict liability laws, meaning a dog’s owner is typically responsible for any injury their dog causes, even if the animal has no history of aggression. However, insurance companies may still try to downplay your injuries or argue that you provoked the dog.
Acting quickly preserves evidence and ensures your legal rights are protected. When it comes to dog bite cases, outcomes are not driven by sympathy. They are driven by strategy, timing, and legal precision. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our dog bite lawyers in Boston build cases that withstand scrutiny.
If you are looking for a dog bite attorney in Boston who will treat your case with urgency, intelligence, and the full weight of legal experience, we are ready to go to work.
How Will a Dog Bite Lawyer at Dolan Connly, P.C. Handle Your Case?
Choosing the right attorney after a dog attack can mean the difference between a dismissed claim and a life-changing recovery. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our dog bite lawyers in Boston bring a rare combination of legal precision, investigative depth, and trial readiness to every case we handle. Here’s how we deliver exceptional results for our clients:
Strategic Fact-Finding That Uncovers the Full Truth
We don’t rely on basic reports or assumptions. Our attorneys conduct targeted investigations—interviewing witnesses, retrieving 911 records, analyzing prior complaints against the dog or owner, and capturing time-sensitive physical evidence. This level of diligence often reveals liability where others overlook it.
Tactical Insurance Advocacy That Puts You in Control
Insurance companies often respond to dog bite claims with delay tactics or insufficient offers. We shift the power dynamic. Backed by decades of negotiating complex personal injury claims, we anticipate insurer defenses, challenge their assumptions, and press for full value, so you are never forced into an unfair settlement.
Medical and Financial Experts Who Strengthen Every Claim
We work closely with board-certified medical professionals, trauma therapists, and forensic economists to paint a complete picture of your losses. From permanent nerve damage to long-term PTSD, we don’t just present your injuries—we validate them with authoritative, quantifiable evidence that holds up in court.
Custom Legal Strategies Built Around Your Life and Losses
Dog bite cases are never one-size-fits-all. Whether your injuries were caused by a known dangerous dog, occurred on commercial property, or involve landlord negligence, we tailor our approach accordingly. Our firm considers your short-term and long-term goals and develops a legal path that aligns with both justice and recovery.
When you work with dog bite lawyers in Boston at Dolan Connly, P.C., you are not just hiring legal representation—you are partnering with a team that understands what’s truly at stake. We know how to uncover hidden liability, challenge insurance delay tactics, and present the lasting toll of a dog attack in a way that demands full accountability.
Our experience, precision, and relentless advocacy make us the choice for dog bite victims in Boston who refuse to be overlooked.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 260 § 2A, victims of dog bites have three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This statute of limitations is critical, as failing to act within that time frame will result in your case being permanently barred. Prompt legal action also helps preserve evidence, including medical records, eyewitness statements, and reports from animal control.
Some exceptions may apply, such as in cases involving minors, but these are narrow and legally complex. It is essential to consult an experienced dog bite lawyer in Boston, MA, as soon as possible. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our dog bite attorneys ensure your case is handled promptly, thoroughly, and in full compliance with all legal deadlines.
How Do You File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Boston, Massachusetts?
Filing a dog bite lawsuit in Massachusetts involves several legal steps, each of which must be handled with care to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our dog bite lawyers in Boston guide clients through this process with precision, ensuring no critical detail is overlooked.
- Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation. A dog bite attorney will review your injuries, medical records, police or animal control reports, and any other available evidence to assess the strength of your claim. - Investigation and Evidence Collection
We conduct a comprehensive investigation, gathering medical documentation, eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, veterinary records, and any prior complaints against the dog or owner. This step is key to establishing liability. - Filing a Complaint
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we file a formal legal complaint in the appropriate Massachusetts court. This document outlines your injuries, the dog owner’s liability under Massachusetts dog bite laws, and the damages being sought. - Service of Process
The complaint must be legally served to the dog owner or the responsible party. This ensures they are properly notified and given the opportunity to respond. - Discovery Phase
During discovery, both sides exchange evidence and take depositions. Our legal team uses this stage to build a stronger case and identify weaknesses in the defense. - Negotiation and Settlement
Most dog bite claims settle before trial. Our Boston dog bite attorneys leverage the evidence and expert reports we have gathered to negotiate a fair settlement that covers your full damages. - Trial, If Necessary
If a settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our courtroom experience and trial readiness often encourage insurers to settle on favorable terms before reaching this stage.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This strategy not only strengthens our negotiating position but also ensures that we are ready to pursue justice aggressively if a fair settlement isn’t offered.
With an experienced dog bite lawyer in Boston by your side, you can move forward with confidence, knowing every step of your claim is being handled with diligence and strategic foresight.
Boston Dog Bite Injury Client Testimonials
The legal council I received from Dolan Connly starting with the initial office visit to the settlement of my personal injury case was very helpful when I needed it most. They helped me navigate all the options and told me in plain English what to expect. I was a cooperative client and provided them with all the documentation they required and was patient allowing the legal process to unfold all of which they appreciated. Given the extent of damages I incurred from the accident I was pleased with the total compensation I received. Kathleen Allen has been our attorney for a few properties and we have sold and have been very happy and satisfied with her professional care in these transactions. There is a very easy way about her, as these things can be very stressful. She was always right there for any concerns or questions that we had. I would highly recommend her to my friends and family. I have closed on two houses with Dolan Connly in the past 10 years. In July 2022, I worked with Kathleen Allen on a closing and was extremely impressed with her professionalism, honestly, and attention to detail. She was the only party to notice a trust was expiring weeks before the planned closing date. Her keen eye resulted in the seller extending the trust and preventing a delay in the closing. -Sam Excellent service ! Barry McIsaac was prompt and effective in dealing my claim case. We need more attorneys like him to help hold big companies accountable. I’d recommend Barry and the Dolan Connly firm to anyone. I worked with Kathleen Allen to purchase my first home in Boston and she was incredible! The seller and I were not working with real estate agents, but Kathleen went above and beyond to make the closing process smooth. I was able to close on time due to her advocating and watching over me. I could not have bought this home without her help. I highly recommend anyone looking for a knowledgeable, quick, and advocating attorney to contact her to purchase a home.
Schedule a Consultation with a Lawyer Today
If you have suffered a dog bite injury in Boston, you need legal counsel you can count on. Let us help you take the next step toward justice. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston dog bites attorneys are standing by to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
FAQ: Boston Dog Bite Lawyer
If you have suffered a dog bite injury in Boston, you likely have many questions about your rights, the legal process, and how to get the compensation you deserve. Below, we have answered some of the most common questions.
What is Massachusetts’ Dog Bite Law?
Massachusetts operates under strict liability for dog bites, meaning dog owners or those in control of the dog are held responsible for any injuries caused, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior. This includes anyone responsible for the dog, such as pet sitters or friends.
However, there are exceptions: the owner is not liable if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or engaging in unlawful behavior. If the dog’s keeper is a minor, the responsible adult, usually the parent or guardian, is held accountable.
Understanding these rules is vital when pursuing a dog bite claim, and a Boston dog bite lawyer can help guide you through the process.
What if the dog that bit me had no prior history of aggression?
In Massachusetts, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the animal’s past behavior. This means that even if the dog had no previous incidents of aggression, the owner can still be held responsible for your injuries. Consulting with a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer in Boston can help you understand your rights and pursue appropriate compensation.
Can I file a claim if I was bitten while working, such as delivering packages or mail?
Yes, if you were performing your job duties when bitten, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits and may also have a personal injury claim against the dog’s owner. An experienced Boston dog bite attorney can assist in navigating both claims to ensure you receive full compensation.
What if the dog bite occurred on public property?
Dog owners are responsible for controlling their pets in public spaces. If a dog bites you in a public area, the owner can still be held liable for your injuries. A dog bite lawyer in Boston can help determine the best course of action based on the specifics of your case.
Are there different considerations if a child is bitten by a dog?
Yes, children are often given special consideration in dog bite cases. Massachusetts law recognizes that children may not fully understand how to avoid provoking a dog, and thus, the law often favors the child’s perspective. A Boston dog bite attorney can advocate for the child’s rights and ensure that appropriate compensation is sought.
What types of damages can I recover beyond medical expenses?
Beyond medical bills, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term disability or disfigurement resulting from the bite. A dog bite lawyer in Boston can evaluate your case to determine all potential damages you may claim.
How does Massachusetts law handle cases where the victim may have provoked the dog?
Massachusetts’ strict liability law does have exceptions. If the victim was trespassing, teasing, or tormenting the dog at the time of the incident, the owner’s liability may be reduced or negated. It is essential to discuss the specific facts with a Boston dog bite attorney to understand how these exceptions may apply to your case.
What is the process for declaring a dog dangerous, and how does that affect my case?
If a dog is deemed dangerous by local authorities, it may support your claim by establishing a known risk associated with the animal. This designation can lead to stricter penalties for the owner and may influence the compensation awarded. A dog bite lawyer in Boston can guide you through this process and its implications for your case.
Can I still pursue a claim if the dog owner is a friend or family member?
Yes, you can. While it may be uncomfortable, it is important to remember that compensation typically comes from the owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy, not directly from their personal finances. A compassionate Boston dog bite attorney can handle the case delicately to maintain personal relationships while ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
What if I were bitten by a stray dog in Boston?
Being bitten by a stray dog presents unique legal challenges, primarily because there is no immediately identifiable owner to hold liable. In Massachusetts, strict liability laws typically apply to dog owners. Still, in the case of a stray, your options may depend on where the incident occurred and who, if anyone, had a duty to prevent the attack.
For example, suppose the bite happened on property owned or managed by a city, landlord, or business that was aware of a stray animal problem and failed to take reasonable action. In that case, there may be a negligence case. Municipal liability claims, however, involve strict notice and procedural rules.
What will happen if a dog bites you but doesn’t break the skin?
Even if a dog bite doesn’t puncture the skin, the incident can still have legal and medical significance. Under Massachusetts dog bite law, an actual bite that causes physical contact — even without visible wounds — can still support a legal claim if it results in injury, pain, or emotional trauma.
For instance, bruising, nerve damage, or psychological effects like anxiety or PTSD may occur despite the lack of broken skin. These are all damages a Boston dog bite lawyer can factor into your claim. Additionally, documenting the incident is still crucial, especially if the dog has a history of aggression or the attack escalates over time.
