Mark Schiffrin P.A

Dog Bite Attorney in South Florida

Serving Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Surrounding Communities

A dog bite can be more than just a painful experience—it can lead to serious injuries, long-term trauma, and unexpected medical bills. Whether you were bitten while walking in your neighborhood or your child was injured while visiting someone’s home, you deserve to understand your rights.

I’m Mark Schiffrin, a personal injury attorney based in Hollywood, Florida, with over 35 years of experience helping dog bite victims across Broward County, Miami-Dade County, and Palm Beach County. My focus is on providing clear legal guidance and committed representation to individuals and families affected by dog attacks in South Florida.

Florida Dog Bite Laws: What You Should Know

Under Florida Statute 767.04, a dog owner is strictly liable if their dog bites someone—even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. This means you may be able to recover damages without having to prove the owner’s negligence.

Here are key points of Florida’s dog bite law:

  • Strict liability applies in most cases where the bite occurred in a public place or lawfully on private property.
  • Comparative negligence may reduce compensation if the victim provoked the dog.
  • Owners of dangerous dogs may face additional penalties under local ordinances.

I’ll help you determine how the law applies to your case and what legal options are available to you or your loved one.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, especially in children and the elderly. I have worked with clients who’ve suffered:

  • Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
  • Nerve damage or torn muscles
  • Facial injuries requiring reconstructive surgery
  • Infections such as rabies or MRSA
  • Psychological trauma (especially in children)
  • Scarring and disfigurement

These injuries can result in expensive medical treatment, lost time from work, and long-lasting emotional distress.

What Compensation Can You Seek?

As your attorney, I pursue full and fair compensation for your injuries, which may include:

  • Medical expenses (ER visits, follow-up care, surgery, rehab)
  • Lost wages or reduced earning ability
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Costs of psychological counseling
  • Future treatment or reconstructive surgery

If the dog’s owner was particularly reckless or failed to comply with leash or containment laws, punitive damages may also apply.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

In most cases, the dog’s owner is liable for injuries caused by their pet. However, other parties may share responsibility in certain situations:

  • Property owners who allow dangerous dogs on their premises
  • Landlords who fail to act despite knowing of a tenant’s aggressive dog
  • Dog walkers or caretakers who were in control of the dog at the time of the attack

I investigate thoroughly to identify all potentially liable parties and maximize your recovery.

Areas I Serve

My law office is located in Hollywood, FL, and I proudly represent clients throughout South Florida, including:

  • Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Plantation)
  • Miami-Dade County (Miami, Hialeah, North Miami, Miami Beach)
  • Palm Beach County (Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach)

No matter where the bite occurred, I’ll guide you through the legal process and help you get the care and compensation you need.

Why Choose Mark Schiffrin, P.A.?

  • Over three decades of focused experience in personal injury law
  • Direct, one-on-one attention—you work with me personally
  • In-depth understanding of Florida’s dog bite statutes
  • Free consultation to explore your case without pressure
  • Compassionate approach with aggressive legal strategy

 

Speak with a South Florida Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you or your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog in South Florida, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I’m here to help you understand your rights, hold negligent dog owners accountable, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

📞 Contact now to schedule a free consultation
📍 Located in Hollywood, FL — serving Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and surrounding areas