Dog bites in New Jersey are governed by strict liability under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, making owners liable for damages regardless of prior viciousness. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — a Dog Bite Lawyer New Jersey — has extensive experience handling animal attack injury claims across the state, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results.
Dog Bite Lawyer New Jersey
New Jersey’s dog bite statute, N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dog. This means the owner is responsible for damages even if the dog had never shown aggression before. The law covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Comparative negligence under N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1 may reduce recovery if the victim provoked the dog. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part | New Jersey Legislature — official site
For the full text of New Jersey’s dog bite statute, see N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 (New Jersey Legislature — official site). For comparative negligence rules, see N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1 (New Jersey Legislature — official site).
In the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part, prosecutors and judges routinely require strict adherence to filing deadlines. We have observed that many dog bite claims fail due to missed notice requirements against government entities.
- Seek immediate medical treatment and document all injuries.
- Report the bite to local animal control within 24 hours.
- Preserve evidence, including photographs and witness contact information.
- Identify the dog owner and any insurance policies.
- Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer New Jersey promptly to assess your claim.
- File your lawsuit within the 2-year statute of limitations under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2.
In New Jersey, a dog bite claim under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 can result in compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, with no cap on compensatory damages.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Bite (Strict Liability) | Civil Claim | None | None (damages awarded) | None | Owner liable for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering |
| Owner Negligence | Civil Claim | None | None (damages awarded) | None | Potential punitive damages if reckless |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team understands the details of New Jersey dog bite law and works tirelessly to secure fair compensation for victims.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. In New Jersey, the firm has achieved numerous successful outcomes for dog bite victims, including settlements and verdicts for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Results may vary.
Our location in Tinton Falls is approximately 30 miles from the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part in Freehold, with access via the Garden State Parkway and Route 18. We serve as a dog owner liability lawyer New Jersey for clients across all 21 counties.
Dog Bite Lawyer near New Jersey: Serving the communities of Hackensack, Newark, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Freehold, Morristown, Paterson, Elizabeth, Trenton, Toms River, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Princeton, Camden, and Atlantic City.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (609) 983-0003 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims in New Jersey
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey’s statute of limitations for personal injury, including dog bite claims, is typically 2 years from the date of injury under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2. Claims against government entities may require a notice within 90 days. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part will dismiss untimely claims. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. promptly at (888) 437-7747.
What damages can I recover in a New Jersey dog bite case?
It depends. You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage under New Jersey’s dog bite statute N.J.S.A. 4:19-16. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part handles these claims. Punitive damages may be available if the owner acted with reckless indifference. Results may vary.
Is New Jersey a strict liability state for dog bites?
Yes. New Jersey imposes strict liability on dog owners under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16. The owner is liable for damages regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of viciousness. However, comparative negligence under N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1 may reduce recovery if the victim provoked the dog. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part adjudicates these cases.
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim in New Jersey?
Yes. An experienced Dog Bite Lawyer New Jersey can help prove liability, calculate damages, and negotiate with insurance companies. New Jersey’s strict liability statute N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 provides a strong basis for claims, but procedural rules in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part require proper filing and evidence preservation. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
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Last verified: April 2026 | Page generated: 2026-04-28T10:00:00Z