Dog Bite Prosecutions
People can be charged by their local council and prosecuted in Court for offences when their dogs escape their yard, rush at a person, or bite a person or another dog.
Need an experienced criminal lawyer?
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence, received a summons to attend court, been arrested by Victoria Police, the RSPCA, or need urgent legal advice, obtaining early legal representation can make a significant difference to how your matter progresses.
At Wilkinson Lawyers, we practise exclusively in criminal law matters across Victoria. We regularly appear at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court and other metropolitan and regional courts.
How We Can Help
Experienced Criminal Lawyer
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Talk To An Experienced Criminal Lawyer
Being charged with a criminal offence is stressful. Many clients contact us after what they describe as the worst day of their life. They are worried about losing their licence, their employment, their reputation, or even their liberty. Our role is to guide you through the legal process, explain your options in plain English, protect your rights and work towards the best available outcome based on the facts of your case.
Whether you intend to plead guilty or contest the allegations, obtaining legal advice as early as possible is one of the most important steps you can take.
Get in direct contact with Jessica Wilkinson now, and receive expert advice on how to deal with your case
Do I need a lawyer?
If you are served with a Summons for a Council Prosecution, it is imperative that you obtain legal advice early. Councils are often difficult to deal with and can be uncompromising.
You are not legally required to have a lawyer. However, criminal proceedings involve rules of evidence, legislation, court procedure and sentencing principles that most people have never encountered.
A lawyer can assist by:
- Explaining the allegations.
- Reviewing the prosecution brief.
- Identifying weaknesses in the evidence.
- Negotiating with police where appropriate.
- Preparing your plea.
- Representing you in court.
- Advising whether a charge should be contested.
- Protecting your legal rights throughout the process.
Even where the allegations appear straightforward, obtaining legal advice can significantly improve your understanding of the options available.
What is the penalty?
The penalties for a dog bite offence or dangerous dog prosecution in Victoria depend on the specific offence you have been charged with, the seriousness of the injuries, your dog’s history, and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Depending on the allegations, you may face substantial fines, be ordered to pay veterinary expenses, medical costs, Council impoundment fees, and other associated costs. In more serious cases, the local Council may apply to the court for an order declaring your dog dangerous or seeking the destruction of your dog.
If you have been contacted by your local Council or asked to participate in a record of interview, it is important to obtain legal advice before answering questions. Statements made during a Council interview can become important evidence in any subsequent prosecution and may significantly affect your ability to defend the allegations.
Wilkinson Lawyers regularly advises clients facing dog attack, dog bite, and Council animal management prosecutions throughout Victoria. If you have received a summons, infringement notice, or request for an interview, contact us as soon as possible for confidential legal advice before speaking with the investigating Council officer.
Talk To An Experienced Criminal Lawyer
Get in direct contact with Jessica Wilkinson now, and receive expert advice on how to deal with your case