A dog attack can turn an ordinary day into a physical and financial crisis.
After a serious dog bite, victims are left managing wound care, doctor’s visits, time away from work, and the emotional toll of a traumatic experience. That’s a heavy burden to carry when someone else’s negligence caused the entire situation.
For decades the Serpe Firm has helped injured clients recover the compensation they deserve, including dog attack victims in Arlington, Virginia.
We’ve helped children, innocent bystanders, USPS mail carriers, delivery drivers, and many others attacked by someone else’s dog.
Dog Bite Injuries We Handle in Arlington
Dog attacks can cause injuries that are far more serious than they first appear. Our firm is available to represent victims who have suffered:
- Deep puncture wounds, lacerations, and infections
- Facial injuries, permanent scarring, and disfigurement
- Fractured bones, nerve damage, and permanent disability
- Wrongful death of a loved one after a fatal dog attack
If you were seriously injured, contact us for a free consultation.
Why Clients Trust Us With Their Cases
When it comes to serious dog bite injuries, experience and dedication matter. Our firm has spent nearly four decades fighting for the injured, and we bring that same commitment to every case we take.
Attorney Richard J. Serpe is a nationally recognized personal injury lawyer with close to 40 years of experience. He has earned consistent recognition from Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers for his relentless advocacy and meticulous case preparation.
Attorney Ashley E. Strandjord also has extensive experience handling dog attack cases. Known for her thorough legal analysis, courtroom readiness, and direct communication with clients, Ashley ensures every case receives the careful, individualized attention it demands.
Our firm is selective about the cases we accept. That intentional approach means our clients receive focused attention, meaningful resources, and a legal strategy built specifically around their situation.
When you work with our firm, you can expect:
- Attorneys with extensive experience in dog attack cases
- Personalized attention and responsive communication
- Thorough case preparation to maximize your recovery
- No legal fees unless we win your case
What to Do After An Arlington Dog Attack
What you do in the hours and days following a dog bite can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Here’s our suggestions:
1. See a Doctor: Even a wound that seems manageable can easily become infected. Medical treatment not only protects your health, but the documentation becomes important evidence for your case.
2. Report the Attack: You can reach Arlington’s Wildlife & Animal Control Department at 703-931-9241. An officer will investigate the incident, find out about the dog’s shot history, potentially quarantine the dog, and generate an official report. That report can become valuable evidence in your claim.
3. Contact a Lawyer: Before speaking with the dog owner or any insurance companies, talk to our legal team. We offer free consultations and there is no risk in discussing your situation with us.
What Is an Arlington Dog Bite Case Worth?
No two cases are identical, and the value of any claim depends on the specific facts involved. Compensation in a Virginia dog bite case typically covers:
- Medical bills: Emergency room visits, surgeries, wound care, and projected future medical expenses.
- Lost income: Wages missed during recovery, and compensation for reduced earning capacity if injuries affect your ability to work long-term
- Pain and suffering: Financial recognition of the physical pain and emotional distress you experienced
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement: Particularly important in cases involving facial injuries, which are especially common when are attacked
- Wrongful death: If a family member was killed in a dog attack, surviving relatives may pursue a wrongful death claim
Client Reviews and Settlement Examples
“When I passed a woman walking her dogs, I had no idea the dogs would lunge at me. The attack left me with serious injuries on my face and arm. I still have the scars today.
Thankfully, I reached out to Richard Serpe, who handled everything for me. The whole process was much easier than I ever expected, and his entire team was so easy to work with. I would like to thank Mr. Serpe and his entire staff…
If you’re considering hiring a lawyer for a dog attack, or any other type of personal injury, don’t hesitate to give Richard Serpe a call.” – Yelp Review
- $425,000 — Child suffered severe facial bites
- $175,000 — Adult bitten on the face
- $160,000 — Adult sustained serious leg injury
- $149,000 — Pedestrian severely bitten
- $134,000 — Injured by a neighbor’s dog
- $100,000 — Delivery driver severely bitten
- $100,000 — Mail carrier required surgery
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome because every case is different.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite attorney? Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront and owe us nothing unless we recover money for you.
How long will my case take to resolve? Many dog bite cases settle within several months. More complex cases, especially those involving severe injuries, may take longer, especially if litigation becomes necessary.
What if the attack happened on the owner’s property? You may still have a valid claim. Many dog bite victims are attacked while visiting a friend, neighbor, or family member’s home.
Contact Our Arlington Dog Bite Lawyers
Attorneys Richard Serpe and Ashley Strandjord have built their reputation on one principal: fighting hard for injured Virginians. You don’t have to go it alone. We are here to help you and your family.
Call or text 757-233-0009, use our chat, or email us anytime.