Chattanooga and East Tennessee Legal Help for Dog Bite Victims

A dog bite can be terrifying and traumatic, especially for children. In many cases, the physical wounds are just the beginning. Victims may require surgeries, psychological counseling, or long-term treatment for nerve damage and infections. In Tennessee, the law gives dog bite victims a pathway to recover damages—but only if the case is built properly from the start. At Schwed, Adams & McGinley, P.A., we've helped thousands of clients throughout Tennessee navigate complex injury claims, including dog bite cases. With over 200 years of combined litigation experience and more than $500 million recovered, we are the team people trust when the stakes are high.

Choose a Dog Bite Law Firm That Gets Results

We are not a volume-based settlement firm. We take on serious cases that require in-depth investigation, legal insight, and expert testimony. Our attorneys are respected across Tennessee for their skill in preparing complex personal injury cases for trial. That preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations and power in the courtroom. With more than 17,000 injury cases handled and hundreds tried to verdict, we know how to position your dog bite case for success.

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Understanding Tennessee Dog Bite Laws

Tennessee's dog bite law (Tenn. Code § 44-8-413) is a “strict liability” statute that generally holds dog owners responsible for attacks occurring in public spaces or private areas where the victim was legally present. However, there are exceptions if the bite occurred on the dog owner's property and the dog had no prior aggressive behavior.

Our Chattanooga dog bite attorneys will investigate where and how the incident occurred, review any history of prior aggression, and determine how the law applies to your specific case. If the dog owner was negligent in controlling the animal—or failed to take basic safety precautions—we'll work to hold them fully accountable.

Not Sure Where to Turn?

Talk to Us Today for Free.
There’s No Fee Unless We Win Your Case.

Injuries We See in Chattanooga Dog Bite Cases

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scrapes to life-threatening trauma, especially when the victim is a child or older adult. At Schwed, Adams & McGinley, P.A., we've represented clients with:

  • Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
  • Facial injuries and permanent scarring
  • Infections such as MRSA or tetanus
  • Torn muscles, ligaments, and nerves
  • Loss of mobility or sensation
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Need for long-term therapy or surgical reconstruction

We work closely with physicians, plastic surgeons, and psychological care providers to assess the full scope of your injuries and build a claim that reflects not only your medical costs but also the emotional and psychological impact of the incident.

How We Build a Winning Dog Bite Case in Chattanooga

Dog bite cases are often defended aggressively—especially if the owner claims the dog was provoked or the victim was trespassing. We know how to counter these arguments with clear evidence and compelling testimony. Here's how we stand out:

Trial-Ready Legal Team

With hundreds of cases tried to verdict and several ABOTA-certified attorneys, insurance companies know we're serious. That reputation often results in stronger settlement offers from the start.

Expert Resources on Your Side

We partner with medical experts, child psychologists, and life care planners to develop a complete picture of the injuries and losses involved in each case.

We Take Cases Other Firms Avoid

Even if other lawyers have declined to take your dog bite case, we may see a path to success. Our firm is known for taking on challenging, high-liability claims—and winning.

Trusted Throughout the Legal Community

In 2024 alone, more than 500 personal injury cases were referred to us by other attorneys across Tennessee. That level of trust speaks volumes about our professionalism and results.

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Don't Wait—Tennessee Has a One-Year Deadline for Dog Bite Claims

Under Tennessee law, you have just one year from the date of the dog attack to file a personal injury claim. That's a short window—especially if you're dealing with healing, surgeries, or trauma recovery.

Acting quickly allows us to preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and begin building your case with the strongest foundation possible.

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Schedule Your Free Consultation With a Chattanooga Dog Bite Lawyer Today

A dog bite can change your life in an instant. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, emotional trauma, or permanent injuries, our team is here to help you move forward. We offer free consultations, and you don't pay us a dime unless we win.

Contact Schwed, Adams & McGinley, P.A. today to speak with a Chattanooga dog bite attorney who will take your case seriously—and fight to get you everything you're owed.

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Find Out if We Can Help You You need the right attorneys

If you’re unsure what to do next, talk to our team at Schwed, Adams & McGinley, PA. There’s no personal injury case type that we haven’t seen before.

We will evaluate your case at no cost to you and let you know if we can help.

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