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Specialists in Dog Law | Tel: 01227 20 33 20

Dog Law

My dog has bitten someone

Before law changes in 1997, following a conviction under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it was mandatory for a dog to be destroyed if it had injured someone. Thankfully, changes brought into effect by the Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997 changed this so that, in relevant cases, it became a presumption in favour of destruction rather than it being imposed automatically on conviction. This kind of case is still very worrying for any dog owner, but it is no longer as clear-cut as it once was.

Dog Law

Is a Puppy Sales Contract Legally Binding

People often ask us whether we can draft a completely ‘watertight’ puppy sale contract for breeders to use. The short answer is that no contract is truly ‘watertight’ because enforceability depends on the facts of each case and the law that applies. However, a puppy sales contract can be legally binding, but only if it meets the legal requirements for a valid contract. In most cases, a written contract helps clarify what was agreed between the breeder/seller and the buyer, but your legal rights may also depend on whether the seller is acting as a business or if they are...

Dog Law

Should you be worried about the Government’s proposals to change jury trials

Many criminal cases involving dogs are dealt with in the Magistrates’ Court and do not involve a jury. However, you may have seen in the media that recent Government proposals to reform jury trials and appeal rights have raised questions about whether Defendants may lose some of their current rights.

Dog Law

Who are the leading Solicitors in the law on dogs

Choosing the right Solicitor when your dog is at risk can make all the difference. Cooper & Co Solicitors was founded by award-winning specialist Solicitor Trevor Cooper and we focus on providing legal advice on dog law (or Doglaw as we like to call it) across England & Wales.

Police

My dog has been seized by the Police… what to do next

If your dog has been seized by the Police you will invariably feel shocked and overwhelmed, as well as being fearful for how your dog is coping with being away from home. Many owners are unsure as to what will happen next and what they need to do first.

Dog Bite

Is every dog entitled to one bite

The answer is NO because for the purposes of the criminal law, a dog’s first bite could result in serious criminal consequences for its owner and, if different, the person who was in charge of the dog at the time.

Pet Insurance

What are the benefits of having pet insurance

Pet ownership brings huge rewards but it also carries extensive responsibilities. One question many owners ask themselves is whether pet insurance is really worth it.