I hired Mullen & Mullen following a motor vehicle collision. I could not be more pleased with the Dallas personal injury lawyers I selected. They are the real deal! I was always kept in the loop on case developments. My attorneys sent the at-fault liability carrier multiple demands to make them agree to pay the policy limits. My lawyers also sent my own insurance company several demands to get them to offer me nearly the policy limits. A lot of attorneys would have given up and just recommended filing a lawsuit but Mullen & Mullen kept pounding the insurance companies until they did the right thing. This saved me a tremendous amount of money and time. I'm so very grateful that I found ethical, tenacious, and skilled attorneys to represent me. Mullen & Mullen gets my highest recommendation if you need a Dallas car accident attorney.C. Burnett
Mullen and Mullen did an absolutely brilliant job representing me in an injury lawsuit and getting me maximum settlement results. I recommend them highly!
I’m only 22 and this was the first case I’ve ever had, I got recommended Mullen and Mullen by a friend who has used them plenty of times and said nothing but good things about them. I have yet to see or hear anything that contradicts her statements! Everyone on the Mullen and Mullen team has been super helpful and kind to me by explaining everything that had and needs to be done to get the case in the right direction. Greg especially has been very helpful by keeping me updated and answering any questions I might have about the situation, he’s been an amazing help and I’m glad I was able to get him assigned to help me get what I deserve from my car accident. Very professional and fast responses, If you are ever injured in a car accident I 100% recommend this team to fight for you, ask for Greg!
Highly recommend this law firm, filled with very nice and professional people who put their clients first. Josh took care of my case and were able to reduce my medical bills significantly which was awesome! Very pleased and glad I had them to work on my car accident case.Thank you, Mullen & Mullen Law Firm
Joe Morrison with Mullen and Mullen was fantastic representing me for an injury on someone's property. He kept me updated through the entire 2 year process. If I had any questions, Joe took the time to personally take my call and provide answers. Joe negotiated a settlement very quickly and ensured I received a fair settlement. I highly recommend Mullen and Mullen and would hire them again if I need help in the future. Best experience with any lawyer I have ever had!!
I was injured in a motorcycle accident, and Shane Mullen took on my case with determination and empathy. His attention to detail and commitment to my case led to a favorable outcome. I'm grateful for his hard work and highly recommend Mullen & Mullen Law Firm.
I was involved in a car accident in Dallas texas off mockingbird. I was T bone by someone who had ran a red light. Me being a young female, I felt lost and taken advantage of by the other parties insurance.I chose Mullen Mullen because they were the only law firm who physically wanted to meet me and hear my side. They helped me with all on the medical assistance that I needed . Although it was a lot of therapy, I was really happy with the doctors they sent me to. Josh was very welcoming and I honest in the process. Every time I felt so at ease after speaking with him. I am so happy I had him on my case. Very hands on. Highly recommend!!!
Karen Lavigne is my name, and I had a great experience with Mullen & Mullen. Josh and Jessica was very patient and informative. If I had to decide again on which law firm to go with it would be Mullen & Mullen. Very transparent about ALL of my money down to the penny. I definitely recommend.
It Honestly baffles me to see ANY negative or low reviews on this law firm. My case is far from over, however, I have never known a lawyer or law firm to not only give you their personal cell phone number but to also respond within 15 minutes. Never a complaint on the 10 plus text messages asking questions or the 2-3 paragraph e-mails. Never telling you it's to late or they are off the clock. They are NEVER off the clock. This firm has two or three lawyers dealing with numerous clients and STILL manage to do all they can to make you feel you are the only one. Try to remember they are human. They truly do everything to put you and your recovery first. The process is long but not something they have any control over. They don't control the Dr. Appointments or your recovery. They will help you find amazing Dr.s then it's up to you to be proactive in your recovery and keeping your appointments. It's been over a year and a half since my injury and my amazing, patient, and hardworking Attorney Joe has been here with me every step of the way. Hundreds of 5 star reviews. 3 or 4 low ones. You do the math.
Mullen and Mullen are the best personal injury team in DFW. When you hire Mullen and Mullen, you have the best personal injury attorneys in DFW. You are getting the best support staff in the state of Texas.Knowing every case is unique. My case took 3 years to complete. My team was professional in the face of a lot of stalling tactics. Without a bat of an eye, the team turned up the heat on the defense for the best possible outcome for all parties.Without details, this group changed not only my life. Mullen and Mullen helped me change my outlook on life after the accident.The most important lessons I learned: 1) Do not try to navigate an personal injury case no matter the cause 2) Listen and follow the advice of your attorney. Get the best in Texas.Shane and Paul, thank you from me and my family.
I would like to thank Mullen and Mullen for the great service I received. I was involved in an accident and they really helped me out. I worked with the paralegal named Josh and he really made everything a simple process. Josh did a wonderful job and I couldn't be happier!
I love they way they work and communication is the best, they will reach out to you and see if you need anything. Questions you have them they will answer you. Josh is an excelente person that help me so much he was always there for me and if I called him he would return my call as fast as he could. He explained everything I asked and I was really comfortable with him. Josh you are an awesome person. Thank you for everything. I love their services n I would highly reconmand them. Mullen and Mullen are there for you as soon as you call them.
Join The Family That Wins
In the last four years, our firm made Top Verdict’s “Top 50” Personal Injury Settlements in Texas list 44 times, and the “Top 100” list 70 times.
Table of Contents
Top St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyers Who Settle For More
YOU CAN TRUST OUR FAMILY TO FIGHT FOR YOURS™
If you were bitten or attacked by a dog, our skilled St. Louis attorneys fight tenaciously to ensure the maximum available settlement while offering you the lowest contingency fee. We handle your case the way we would want our own case handled.
Mullen & Mullen is consistently recognized by TopVerdict for obtaining some of the largest recoveries in the entire state of Texas. In the last 3 years our firm made the Texas “Top 50 Personal Injury Settlements” list 43 times. Our stellar results allow us to offer a below industry standard 29% pre-suit contingency fee which means more money in your pocket.
Our experienced local team has an incredibly strong work ethic and truly cares. We’ve been privileged to serve North Texas for over 40 years. This is our backyard. Call (314) 465-8733 now for a free consultation and some excellent advice.
What Your Attorney Says
It is important in dog bite cases to retain counsel familiar with all potential causes of action.
My spouse and I are the proud owners of two rescue dogs, Max and Tobey, who hold an irreplaceable place within our family, and we cherish them dearly.
While most canines tend to be amicable, living their lives without causing any issues, it is regrettable that some dogs can pose a genuine threat to people. I have vivid memories of disturbing images showing injuries suffered by individuals following dog attacks, memories that will stay with me forever.
It is crucial to recognize that a dog owner may bear responsibility for any injuries you suffer if they were aware that their dog had previously bitten someone before attacking you. Importantly, this liability can also extend to situations where the owner had reason to believe that the dog had previously exhibited behaviors suggesting it might bite or attack someone. Furthermore, it’s essential to understand that not all dogs are given the benefit of a “one free bite.” Certain breeds, like Akitas and Pit Bulls, are considered inherently dangerous under the law, making their owners strictly liable for any injuries their dogs cause.
Additionally, some municipalities and counties enact their own animal control regulations. These local ordinances often mandate that dogs be leashed, and a violation of these “leash laws” generally implies that the owner is automatically considered negligent under the law.
Lastly, dog owners and handlers can also be held accountable for the negligent management of non-aggressive animals. In short, they have a duty to exercise reasonable care to prevent their animals from harming others.
I vividly recall a case where we represented a five-year-old girl. She accompanied her father to deliver an item to a neighbor, who had a small dog that wasn’t deemed an inherently dangerous breed and had no history of biting. Regrettably, the homeowner’s mother negligently allowed the dog to escape when she opened the door. The dog leaped toward the young child, and its claws caught her in the eyelid. Subsequently, a minor plastic surgery procedure was necessary to repair the damage. It was undoubtedly a traumatic experience for anyone to endure, especially a child.
In cases involving dog bites, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel well-versed in all potential legal avenues. In the case I mentioned earlier, the young child’s share of the settlement exceeded $110,000. These funds were then placed into an annuity, ensuring a guaranteed contractual payout of at least $179,864.81 over a specified period. This financial support will sufficiently cover her future college education, and we extend our best wishes to her.
We have achieved numerous multimillion-dollar settlements across all practice areas, but we are restricted from displaying some very large results due to settlement confidentiality. Here are a few recent results without confidentiality agreements:
According to TopVerdict.com, our Dallas attorneys consistently achieve some of the highest recoveries in the state of Texas. As a matter of fact, in the last four years, we’ve made their Texas “Top 50” Personal Injury Settlements list 43 times, and their “Top 100” list 70 times. For example, in 2021 one of our claims made the Top 10 list, eight made the Top 11-20 list, and ten made the Top 21-50 list. When you factor in our reduced 29% contingency fee, we are confident we will help you recover more. At Mullen & Mullen, we pride ourselves on routinely recovering full policy limits for our clients without the necessity of costly and time-consuming litigation.
According to TopVerdict.com, our Dallas attorneys consistently achieve some of the highest recoveries in the state of Texas. As a matter of fact, in the last three years we’ve made their “Texas Top 50 Personal Injury Settlements” list 43 times. For example, in 2021 one of our claims made the Top 10 list, eight made the Top 11-20 list, and ten made the Top 21-50 list. When you factor in our reduced 29% contingency fee, we are confident we will help you recover more. At Mullen & Mullen, we pride ourselves on routinely recovering full policy limits for our clients without the necessity of costly and time-consuming litigation.
We have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic technology through well-established relationships with medical doctors, surgeons, physical therapists, chiropractors, neurologists, counselors, and other healthcare providers in the entire DFW Metroplex. You receive the quality medical attention you need from local providers near where you live or work. These providers specialize in treating people hurt in accidents of all kinds and they know how to properly document injuries to meet the legal burden of proof in your personal injury case. These providers are also willing to delay billing collections until after your case is resolved so you can focus on recovering without additional stress. Physicians that don’t routinely treat accident victims as part of their practice usually turn away patients over fear of being involved in the legal process or fear of health insurance companies refusing to pay accident-related healthcare bills. Please call us at 214-747-5240 for a free consultation and some advice.
Even if you don’t have health insurance or can’t afford your deductible, Mullen & Mullen will secure you the quality healthcare and state-of-the art diagnostics you deserve with no upfront out of pocket costs.
Shane, Joseph and Regis have almost 100 years of combined experience practicing personal injury law. That doesn’t even include the combined experience of the attorneys that serve as of-counsel to Mullen & Mullen at no additional cost to our clients. Our firm continues to evolve, but we never forget our Core Values. We do the right thing, handle cases the way we would want our own case handled, and we truly listen to clients. We have over 40 years of local knowledge, and that matters!
Some lawyers forget that they represent the client, but we never have. Our legal team will make YOU the priority. You are the boss, and we will respond quickly to your requests for case updates and assistance. We guarantee that when you need to speak to your counsel, you will speak directly to your counsel, not to a paralegal or secretary, because that’s the way it should be.
Most firms hire an investigator to help develop evidence on your case and charge you back for that service. Our firm, however, has 2 full-time accident investigators on staff and we offer their services to you for free. This is another way we will maximize your compensation.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Video footage is worth a lot more. Our in-house videographer allows us to capture the true impact the accident has on your life beyond mere words on a piece of paper.
When necessary, Mullen & Mullen Law Firm uses cutting edge technology like 3D imaging videos to fully demonstrate the extent of our clients’ injuries to the insurance companies. This also helps maximize the value of your claim.
Mullen & Mullen’s attorneys live and work right here in Dallas, and always have. We believe in paying our success forward by helping people in the North Texas community, and are dedicated to supporting these local charities.
About Our Highly Skilled Attorneys
Shane V. Mullen, Managing Partner
Our Managing Partner, Shane V. Mullen, has been handling personal injury cases for 21 years. He is “Top-rated” by Thompson Reuters who named him as a Texas Super Lawyer 3 consecutive years. Shane is also a lifetime member of both the Million & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums, solidifying his expertise in handling significant cases. He is also an esteemed member of Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys of America, further attesting to his exceptional legal prowess. Shane brings hard-won, battle born knowledge to your case.
Joseph R. Morrison, Senior Associate
With 18 years of personal injury experience, Attorney Joseph R. Morrison has established himself as a highly skilled legal professional. Notably, he served as counsel of record in a case that garnered recognition from VerdictSearch.com as a top 5 Premises liability (slip and fall) verdict in Texas. The defendant in this case was a Fortune 500 company with an annual revenue exceeding 11 billion. The specific case, Jeffrey Young v. ConAgra Foods, Inc., showcased Joe’s exceptional abilities in achieving favorable outcomes.
Joe is a distinguished member of The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers, solidifying his standing among the nation’s most esteemed legal practitioners. Furthermore, his membership in both the Million & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums further attests to his expertise in handling substantial cases.
Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Both Shane and Joseph are lifetime members of the Million & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums, meaning they have each settled cases in excess of two million. This solidifies their expertise in handling significant personal injury cases.
Regis L. Mullen, Founder
Our Founder, Attorney Regis L. Mullen, has 56 years of personal injury experience. Regis received his Admission to practice law in 1967. Previously a Litigation Supervisor at Allstate Insurance Company, he knows all the tactics liability carriers use to deny or reduce personal injury settlements. Drawing upon his profound comprehension of the inner workings of the insurance industry, Regis established a law firm dedicated to meeting the legal needs of injured individuals in North Texas.
MORE REASONS TO CHOOSE MULLEN & MULLEN
Deferred Medical Billing During Your St. Louis Dog Bite Case
We delay the billing of medical expenses until your St. Louis dog bite case concludes. Our legal team has established relationships with medical providers, enabling you to settle your medical bills using the final settlement amount. This approach allows you to concentrate on recovering from your injuries without the burden of mounting medical debt and constant pressure from bill collectors.
Personalized Representation For Potentially Higher Settlements:
Unlike high-volume law firms where attorneys may only become involved at the end of the process, our St. Louis lawyers at Mullen & Mullen actively oversee and develop dog bite cases at every stage. This ensures proper development and presentation of your case, potentially resulting in a larger settlement amount.
Reduced Expenses And More Money In Your Pocket
We have two in-house private investigators, and their services are provided at no cost to our clients. Many firms outsource this service, passing the expenses on to clients as case-related costs.
If you mention that you found us through this website, we will reduce our fee to 29% of your final settlement if it settles pre-suit (compared to the industry-standard of 33.3%-35%). This reduction allows you to retain more of your settlement money, made possible by the consistently high settlement values we achieve for our clients.
UNDERSTANDING DOG BITE CLAIMS
Is The Owner Automatically Responsible If A Dog Bites Me?
Owners of dogs in Missouri are strictly liable for bite injuries and property damage caused by their animals. Missouri – unlike many states – does not follow the “one bite” rule requiring the victim to prove the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. To win a dog bite case the victim must simply demonstrate that they were injured by a dog bite while on public property or lawfully on private property and that they did not provoke the dog.
Can an Owner Be Responsible for Non-Bite Injuries?
Yes. Injured victims who were not bitten can win their case by establishing the owner was negligent or by establishing negligence per se.
Owners are required to be prepared for typical dog behavior such as running around when off-leash or excitedly jumping on people. In deciding if an owner was negligent a key consideration will be establishing what the owner knew about his or her animal’s habits. For example, if an owner knew its dog loved to hit full speed while unleashed at a park and allowed the animal to do so anyway, the owner could be found liable if his or her dog ran into someone and tripped them causing injuries. Please note strict liability can apply to non-bite injuries when owners have knowledge their dog has a particularly dangerous tendency. The behavior, however, has to be “abnormally” dangerous not typical of canines as a species.
Negligence per se can be utilized to establish liability when someone is injured due to the disregard of a law designed to protect the public. For example, many ordinances are in place requiring dogs to be leashed in public places. If an owner violates a “leash law” they will be found negligent per se i.e. the law itself establishes liability.
How Much Compensation Can I Receive for Dog Bite Injuries?
The amount depends on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Your actions in the situation also play a role.
How Do Owners Defend Themselves in Dog Bite Cases?
Owners may claim they behaved reasonably under the circumstances in non-bite injury cases. For example, they could argue it was not negligent to allow their dog off leash in a park (provided no “leash law” was in place) if the animal had always previously been very calm and never ran at high speeds in the past.
Are Dog Bite Cases Easy to Win?
Dog bite cases can sometimes be straight forward regarding liability but establishing fair and adequate compensation will always be a battle with the insurance company. Non-bite injury cases are much more difficult to win.
Should I File a Claim If It’s A Friend Or Family Member’s Dog?
In most cases, you’re filing against their homeowner’s insurance. A true friend or family member should want you to be compensated for damages. If they resist, it raises questions about their true intentions.
While no one plans for accidents or injuries, understanding Missouri dog bite law myths can help you protect yourself. If you’re a victim, consult our St. Louis dog bite lawyers for a free consultation at (314) INJURED.
IDENTIFYING DOG BREEDS PRONE TO AGGRESSION: UNDERSTANDING AND MITIGATING RISKS
Not all dogs are inherently dangerous, but a subset demands cautious consideration. With proper training and attentive ownership, many dogs can be well-behaved. However, some may exhibit aggressive behavior due to inadequate training.
While every dog aspires to be a “good” dog, the failure of owners to instill proper behavior can lead to biting and attacks. Encountering a stray or barking dog doesn’t automatically imply an imminent attack.
Certain dog breeds are associated with a higher risk of aggression. Meeting these dogs in the company of their owners can help establish trust and prevent potential threats:
Pit Bulls:
The term “pit bull” encompasses various breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Bulldog. Historically bred for bull and bear baiting, they have a reputation for aggressive behavior, often seen in news reports of attacks.
Rottweilers:
Originally bred by the Roman army for herding cattle, Rottweilers have a history intertwined with butchers and cattle markets. Their temper requires a calm, assertive owner to manage their emotions and potential aggression.
German Shepherds:
Bred to assist shepherds in protecting flocks, German Shepherds possess loyalty that has led them to be used as guard dogs. While they can be friendly with proper training, an irresponsible owner may trigger aggressive behavior.
Doberman Pinschers:
Originating from the work of a German tax collector in the 1800s, Doberman Pinschers were bred for protection. Their potential for aggression necessitates responsible ownership to prevent untoward incidents.
Conclusion:
While any dog breed can make an excellent family pet with adequate attention, certain breeds, due to their genetics, may have a higher likelihood of aggressive behavior. Owners are expected to recognize and manage the inherent risks associated with these breeds.
If you’ve experienced a dog bite, seeking legal advice from a personal injury lawyer is advisable.
WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF A DOG ATTACK
Though rare, incidents of aggressive dog attacks can occur. How can you equip yourself to handle such situations or halt an attack if you become a target? Gain a clear understanding of the necessary steps.
In terms of fatal dog attacks, Texas leads the nation, though complete maulings are fortunately infrequent. If you find yourself facing a dog attack, what steps should you take?
Predicting a dog’s potential for aggression is challenging, as not all exhibit overt warning signs such as growling, lunging, snarling, or baring teeth. Some dogs may freeze momentarily, making it crucial to discern subtler cues.
When Faced With Aggressive Dog Behavior, Consider The Following Dos And Don’ts:
Avoid direct eye contact, as it can be perceived as a challenge.
Remain still and refrain from speaking to minimize interest.
Move away slowly, creating distance and placing a barrier between you and the dog.
Request assistance calmly without shouting, as loud noises may provoke the dog.
If you’re on the ground, curl into a ball, protecting your neck and throat. Avoid using pepper spray, as it may escalate the situation.
In The Event Of An Actual Attack And Bite, Implement The Following Tactics:
Cover the dog’s head with a jacket or shirt to obstruct its vision and encourage disengagement.
Redirect the dog’s biting onto an object using a jacket, shirt, or any available item.
Avoid screaming, as it can intensify the dog’s aggression.
Resist the impulse to strike the dog, as this can elevate adrenaline and the desire to attack.
Successfully navigating a dog attack demands a composed approach in a high-pressure scenario. While encountering an aggressive dog alone is an undesirable situation, knowing these precise actions can be invaluable if the need arises.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
Call (314) 465-8733 to talk to a St. Louis dog bite attorney right now. We won’t put any pressure on you to hire us on the spot. Simply learn how we’ll approach your case and get some excellent free advice. Make your decision only when you feel 100% ready. Do remember though, that the Missouri statute of limitations gives you just 5 years from the date of your accident to file a claim. BUT if you wait to contact a lawyer it may be too late to gather evidence. It’s critical to your potential claim to ACT FAST.
We’ll come to your home or hospital room if it makes it easier on you! Phone and Zoom consultations are also available. You can call us, or use the form or chat feature on this page to request a free consultation now.
The Mullen & Mullen family is here to address your concerns and make the path to recovery smooth. There are no fees to get started and you pay $0 if we don’t settle your case.