Gulfport Dog Bite Lawyer & Dog Bite Attorney
Standing Up for Dog Bite Victims on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
Being attacked or bitten by a dog is a frightening experience that can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Victims often face painful injuries, medical bills, missed work, and even permanent disfigurement. To make matters more difficult, the dog is often owned by a neighbor, friend, or family member — leaving many people afraid to pursue a claim out of fear of damaging a relationship.
The truth is, in most dog bite cases, compensation comes from a homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy, not the dog owner’s personal pocket. That means you can seek the financial recovery you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages without “suing” someone you care about. At Holleman Law Firm, PLLC, I help clients navigate this sensitive issue while protecting their rights every step of the way.
With decades of trial experience in Gulfport, Biloxi, Pascagoula, and across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I know how to hold insurers accountable and fight for maximum compensation — all while helping you move forward with peace of mind.
If you or your child has been bitten by a dog along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, don’t wait to get legal help. I offer free, confidential consultations, and I represent clients on a contingency fee basis — which means you pay nothing unless I recover compensation for you.
Call (228) 678-7279 today to speak directly with an experienced Gulfport dog bite lawyer who will fight for your recovery while protecting your relationships.
What Are Mississippi’s Dog Bite Laws?
Unlike some states, Mississippi does not have a strict liability statute that automatically holds dog owners responsible for bites. Instead, liability usually depends on whether the owner knew or should have known the dog had dangerous tendencies or failed to use reasonable care in controlling or restraining the dog. This means every case depends on a careful investigation of the dog’s history, the owner’s actions, and the circumstances of the attack.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Dog Bite?
Several parties may be legally responsible for a dog attack, including:
-
-
- The dog’s owner if they failed to restrain or control their pet
- A landlord or property owner who knew of a dangerous dog but did not take action
- A business or third party (such as a kennel, pet sitter, or dog walker) if the attack occurred while they had control of the animal
-
I investigate all potential sources of liability to maximize your recovery.
What Injuries Do Dog Bites Cause?
Dog attacks can cause devastating harm, including:
-
-
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
- Broken bones from being knocked down
- Scarring and disfigurement, especially on the face and hands
- Infections such as rabies, tetanus, or sepsis
- Nerve damage and loss of function
- Emotional trauma, anxiety, or PTSD
-
In the most tragic cases, dog attacks can even result in wrongful death claims.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Dog Bite?
If you were bitten or attacked by a dog in Gulfport or the surrounding areas, you may be entitled to compensation for:
-
-
- Emergency care, hospital bills, and follow-up treatment
- Plastic or reconstructive surgery
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Long-term therapy or counseling
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
-
I pursue the maximum compensation available through insurance claims and litigation when necessary.
Do I Have to Sue a Friend or Family Member?
Many dog bite victims hesitate to bring a claim when the animal belongs to a neighbor, friend, or family member. In reality, most of these claims are covered by homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies — not out-of-pocket payments. This means you can pursue compensation without directly suing someone you care about. I handle these sensitive cases with discretion and professionalism.
How Much Does a Dog Bite Lawyer Cost?
At Holleman Law Firm, PLLC, I represent dog bite victims on a contingency fee basis. That means no upfront fees to hire me, no payment unless I recover compensation for you. This ensures you have access to experienced representation without financial risk.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Mississippi?
Mississippi law generally gives you three years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the victim is a minor, the deadline may be extended, but it’s important to act quickly so that critical evidence, such as medical records, photographs, and witness statements, is preserved.
What Should I Do After a Dog Bite?
If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention to treat injuries and prevent infection.
- Report the attack to local animal control or law enforcement.
- Collect the dog owner’s name, contact information, and insurance details.
- Take photos of the injuries, the dog, and the location where the attack occurred.
- Contact a Gulfport dog bite attorney as soon as possible.
The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Why Choose Holleman Law Firm?
-
-
- Over 30 Years of Advocacy – I’ve spent decades standing up for injury victims and their families throughout Mississippi.
- Direct Access to Your Lawyer – When you hire my firm, you work directly with me—not a paralegal or junior associate.
- Relentless Case Preparation – From gathering medical records to interviewing witnesses, I leave no stone unturned in building a powerful claim.
- Respected by Insurers and Opponents – Insurance companies know I am ready to take cases to trial when needed, which often leads to better settlements.
- Client-Centered Approach – I understand how disruptive and overwhelming a dog bite injury can be, and I provide steady guidance every step of the way.
-
Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced Gulfport Dog Bite Attorney Today
If you or a loved one was bitten or attacked by a dog, don’t wait to protect your rights. Evidence can disappear quickly, and insurance companies move fast to minimize payouts.
Call (228) 678-7279 today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced Gulfport dog bite lawyer. I’ll explain your options, fight for your recovery, and stand by your side every step of the way.