Premises Liability Attorney in Boston, MA
If you or a loved one was injured due to a dangerous condition on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation under Massachusetts premises liability law. Whether the injury occurred in a retail store, apartment complex, office building, or public sidewalk, our Boston premises liability lawyers have the experience, strategy, and commitment to help you recover the damages you deserve.
Serving clients across Massachusetts - including Boston and Pembroke
Why Choose Dolan Connly, P.C. for Your Premises Liability Case?
A slip on a wet floor, a fall on broken stairs, or an injury from faulty wiring may seem like a simple accident, but under Massachusetts law, it could be a case of negligence. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston premises liability attorneys understand that these cases often require deep legal insight and a detail-oriented approach. We bring both to the table—and more.
This is why Boston residents and clients across Massachusetts trust Dolan Connly, P.C. with their premises liability claims:
- Targeted Legal Experience: We have successfully handled a wide range of property negligence claims in Massachusetts, including trip-and-fall, negligent security, and building code violations. We know what evidence matters and how to use it.
- Veteran-Owned Dedication: Our firm brings military discipline and mission-driven advocacy to every case. We don’t just “handle” your claim—we fight to win it.
- Meticulous Case Management: From scene investigations and expert consultations to insurance negotiations and court representation, we handle every detail so you can focus on your recovery.
- Empathy-Driven Representation: No two injury stories are alike. We take the time to learn yours and craft a legal strategy built around your specific injuries, challenges, and goals.
When you partner with Dolan Connly, P.C., you work with a team that values integrity, preparation, and results. We are here to stand by you, pursue every avenue for justice, and help you take back control of your life.
Dolan Connly, P.C.’s Recent 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 Boston premises liability lawyers have secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients who were injured due to property owner negligence. These outcomes have covered everything from spinal injuries caused by icy walkways to traumatic brain injuries resulting from falling objects in retail spaces. Our personal injury lawyers in Boston will fight for full and fair compensation, including both current and future losses.
What Damages Can You Claim in a Premises Liability Case in Boston?
Massachusetts law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions for lawful visitors. When they fail to do so and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to compensation. These damages are typically categorized into three main types: economic, non-economic, and, in rare cases, punitive damages.
The exact damages available depend on the severity and circumstances of your injury, but our Boston premises liability attorneys leave nothing on the table. You may be eligible to claim:
- Medical expenses: hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical treatment.
- Lost wages: income you have missed due to being unable to work.
- Loss of earning capacity: if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same income in the future.
- Pain and suffering: physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by your injury.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: if the injury prevents you from participating in hobbies or daily activities.
- Emotional distress: anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges stemming from the accident.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we bring in top-tier medical professionals, financial planners, and accident reconstructionists to ensure your case is backed by hard evidence, not just words. We are relentless in our pursuit of maximum compensation for every client we represent.
Types of Premises Liability Cases We Handle at Dolan Connly, P.C.
Premises liability claims are some of the most varied and complex personal injury cases. Property owners, managers, and landlords are responsible for preventing foreseeable harm, but that responsibility is often ignored. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston premises liability attorneys handle a wide spectrum of property-related injury cases:
- Slip and fall accidents
- Inadequate security
- Dog bites and animal attacks
- Swimming pool accidents
- Elevator and escalator accidents
- Toxic exposure (e.g., mold, asbestos, lead paint)
- Falling objects
- Fires and electrical hazards
- Poor lighting or visibility
- Unsafe stairways or handrails
Every case is built from the ground up. We don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions—we tailor our strategies to the unique facts, property history, and injuries involved. Our attention to detail, courtroom skill, and client-first approach have earned us a strong reputation throughout Boston.
Clients turn to us not just for our legal expertise, but for the genuine care we bring to every case. In addition to premises liability claims, we proudly represent clients in a broad spectrum of personal injury matters throughout Boston:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Hit-and-run incidents
- Dog bite incidents
What to Do Immediately After a Premises Liability Injury in Boston, MA?
Whether you slipped on a wet floor in a store or were hurt in a stairwell collapse, your actions after the incident can significantly impact your claim. At Dolan Connly, P.C., we help clients act quickly and intelligently. Here is what to do:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, prompt treatment is crucial—both for your health and your legal case.
- Report the Incident: Notify property management or store employees and ask for an incident report. If on public property, contact city officials or law enforcement.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard, the surrounding conditions, and your injuries. If possible, collect witness contact information.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Don’t discuss the incident with insurance adjusters or property owners until you have consulted a lawyer.
- Contact a Premises Liability Lawyer in Boston: The sooner you have legal counsel, the better. We will help preserve evidence and protect your rights from the start.
Acting fast strengthens your claim. Don’t let the property owner’s insurance company control the narrative—let us do the talking.
How Will a Premises Liability Lawyer at Dolan Connly, P.C. Handle Your Case?
Choosing the right attorney after a property-related injury can mean the difference between walking away with nothing and walking away with the resources you need to recover. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston premises liability lawyers bring sharp legal precision, investigative depth, and trial readiness to every case we handle. This is how we consistently deliver powerful results for our clients:
Strategic Fact-Finding That Uncovers Dangerous Conditions
We don’t just skim police reports or rely on secondhand accounts. Our attorneys launch in-depth investigations that expose the true source of the hazard. We obtain surveillance footage, interview witnesses, inspect maintenance records, pull prior complaints, and consult safety code experts to build a strong liability case. This level of detail often uncovers negligence where others miss it, whether it is a leaking pipe, a loose railing, or a long-ignored code violation.
Tactical Insurance Advocacy That Forces Fair Compensation
Property owners and their insurers often deny or minimize premises liability claims, blaming the victim or downplaying the danger. We flip that script. Backed by decades of experience handling complex personal injury negotiations, we anticipate every excuse, counter delay tactics, and push back hard against lowball offers. Our approach puts the pressure on them, so you remain in control of your outcome.
Medical and Financial Experts Who Prove the Full Impact of Your Injury
Whether you suffered a fractured hip, spinal cord injury, or head trauma from a fall, the long-term effects can be devastating. We partner with respected physicians, life care planners, economists, and rehab experts to clearly demonstrate how your injury affects your body, career, finances, and quality of life—both now and in the future. We don’t just describe your losses—we document them with hard data and expert validation.
Customized Legal Strategies That Align With Your Reality
Every premises liability case is unique. Were you injured in a poorly lit stairwell, on an icy sidewalk, or due to negligent building maintenance? Is your case against a private homeowner, a commercial landlord, or a government agency? We develop a legal plan that reflects the full context of your situation—legally, financially, and personally. We align our strategy with your specific goals, whether that means a swift settlement or a full trial.
When you work with a Boston premises liability lawyer at Dolan Connly, P.C., you are not just getting a legal advocate—you are gaining a partner with the insight, experience, and resolve to fight for your future. We know how to expose hidden hazards, overcome aggressive insurance defense strategies, and tell your story in a way that demands accountability.
Our results-driven process, deep legal knowledge, and relentless advocacy make us the go-to choice for those injured by unsafe property conditions across Boston.
Statute of Limitations for Premises Liability Cases in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, you have three years from the date of a premises liability injury to file a lawsuit (Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 260 § 2A). Missing this deadline will permanently bar your claim, no matter how serious the injury or how clear the negligence.
Prompt legal action is crucial to preserve key evidence like photos of the hazard, witness statements, and medical records. While limited exceptions exist (such as for minors), they are complex and rare.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston premises liability lawyers ensure your case is filed on time and backed by strong, timely evidence, so you never risk losing your rights over a deadline.
How Do You File a Premises Liability Lawsuit in Boston, Massachusetts?
Premises liability cases—whether caused by unsafe stairs, unshoveled walkways, or hazardous conditions on private or commercial property—require strategic legal handling from start to finish. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston premises liability lawyers are indispensable in navigating the legal system and building a strong, evidentiary case.
- Case Evaluation and Legal Strategy
We begin with a focused consultation to assess your injuries, identify where the incident occurred, and determine whether the property owner failed to meet their legal obligations. Massachusetts law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions—proving they did not is where our work begins.
- Detailed Investigation of the Scene and Conditions
We collect critical evidence: photos of the hazard, witness statements, maintenance records, prior complaints, inspection logs, and applicable building codes. In many cases, these details reveal negligence that others overlook.
- Filing the Complaint
If a pre-suit resolution is not possible, we draft and file a formal complaint with the appropriate Massachusetts court. This legal document outlines the unsafe condition, the property owner’s negligence, and the full scope of your damages.
- Discovery and Expert Input
We use the discovery process to demand records, take depositions, and retain engineers, building code experts, and medical professionals to support your claim. This phase often exposes additional liable parties who we then add as defendants to the case.
- Settlement Negotiation or Trial
Whether through skilled negotiation or aggressive litigation, we pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impairments. Our trial-readiness approach gives us leverage—insurance companies know we will not settle for less than what you deserve.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we handle premises liability cases with the diligence, precision, and the legal strength they demand—because unsafe property shouldn’t leave you with unsafe outcomes.
Boston Premises Liability 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 were injured due to a dangerous condition on someone else’s property in Boston, don’t wait to seek legal help. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our premises liability attorneys are ready to evaluate your case, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
FAQ: Boston Premises Liability Lawyer
If you have suffered a premises liability 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 we get from clients in Massachusetts.
What is premises liability under Massachusetts law?
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners and occupiers accountable when someone is injured due to unsafe or defective conditions on their property. This area of law covers a broad range of incidents, including slip and falls, structural failures, inadequate maintenance, and insufficient security measures.
Who can be held legally responsible for a premises liability injury?
In Massachusetts, the party responsible for maintaining the property, whether a private homeowner, business owner, landlord, or property manager, may be held liable if their negligence contributed to the unsafe condition that caused the injury. Liability is based on who had control over the property at the time of the incident.
What types of accidents are considered premises liability cases?
Premises liability can include a wide variety of scenarios. Common examples involve falls caused by icy walkways or broken stairs, injuries due to falling objects or poor lighting, dog attacks occurring on private property, and harm resulting from negligent security in places like apartment complexes, hotels, or parking garages.
What must be proven to win a premises liability claim?
To succeed in a premises liability case, the injured party must establish that a dangerous condition existed on the property, that the responsible party either knew or reasonably should have known about it, and that they failed to remedy the hazard or provide an adequate warning. Additionally, it must be shown that this failure directly caused the injury.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you were less than 51 percent responsible for your injury, you can still recover damages at trial, though your recovery will be reduced in proportion to your share of fault. If you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages.
How long do I have to file a premises liability lawsuit in Massachusetts?
The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including premises liability cases, is three years from the date of the injury. However, there are exceptions that may shorten or extend this period, especially in cases involving minors or government entities. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is critical to preserving your legal rights.
What types of damages can be recovered in a premises liability case?
Injured individuals may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, scarring, disfigurement, emotional distress, and long-term disability. The exact value of a claim depends on the severity of the injury and its impact on the victim’s life.
Is it necessary to hire a premises liability attorney in Boston?
While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, doing so can significantly improve your chances of recovering full compensation. Premises liability cases often involve complex legal and factual issues, including insurance coverage disputes, expert testimony, and detailed investigations. An experienced attorney can build a compelling case, negotiate with insurers, and take the matter to court if needed.
Are landlords liable for injuries sustained on rental properties?
Landlords can be held responsible if the injury results from a condition they had control over or were obligated to repair. For instance, if a tenant is injured due to a faulty staircase in a common area that the landlord neglected to fix, the landlord may be liable. However, if the injury occurs within the tenant’s unit due to a condition the tenant controls, the landlord’s liability may be limited.
What if the injury occurred on public property, like a sidewalk or park?
Injuries on public property introduce complexities, as governmental entities have specific protections and procedures. In Massachusetts, claims against public entities often require a formal written notice within a short timeframe, sometimes as brief as 30 days. It is crucial to act swiftly and consult an attorney familiar with municipal liability to navigate these claims effectively.
Can I sue if I was injured due to inadequate security on a property?
Yes, property owners may be liable for injuries resulting from foreseeable criminal acts if they failed to provide adequate security measures. For example, if a hotel lacks proper lighting or security personnel in a high-crime area, and a guest is assaulted, the hotel could be held responsible for its negligence.
How long does it take to resolve a premises liability claim?
The duration varies based on the complexity, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of parties to settle the claim. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others, especially those proceeding to trial, can take years. An attorney can provide a more accurate timeline after evaluating the specifics of your case.
What if I was trespassing when I got injured?
Generally, property owners owe limited duties to trespassers. However, they cannot willfully or wantonly cause harm. There are exceptions, especially if the trespasser is a child attracted to a hazardous condition such as an unfenced swimming pool. These situations are nuanced, and legal counsel is essential to assess potential claims.
Is there a time limit to notify a property owner of my injury?
While Massachusetts law provides a three-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit, notifying the property owner or manager promptly is advisable. Early notification can facilitate evidence preservation and may be required in certain situations, such as injuries on public property, where shorter notice periods apply.
What role does insurance play in premises liability cases?
Property owners typically have liability insurance to cover injuries occurring on their premises. After an incident, their insurance company may contact you with settlement offers. It is important to consult an attorney before accepting any offers, as initial settlements may not fully compensate you for your losses.
