Douglas County · Fatal dog attacks
Lone Tree Fatal Dog Attack Lawyers
A fatal dog attack in Lone Tree is a family tragedy and a legal case. Free consultation. No attorney fee unless we recover for you.
When a Dog Bite Causes a Death
Colorado's dog-bite statute, C.R.S. § 13‑21‑124, can apply when a bite causes death, provided the person was lawfully in a public place or lawfully on the dog owner's property at the time. That statute establishes the dog owner's liability for the bite itself. It does not, by itself, decide who in the family can bring a claim for the death.
Who may file a wrongful-death claim after a fatal dog attack in Lone Tree is governed by Colorado wrongful-death law, not the dog-bite statute alone. The two areas of law work together: the dog-bite statute can establish that the owner is responsible for the attack, while wrongful-death law determines which family members may bring the claim and what losses it covers.
Because these claims sit at the intersection of two different statutes, they need to be built carefully from the start. We look at how the attack happened, whether the dog-bite statute applies, and how that finding supports a wrongful-death claim on behalf of the family.
What We Look At in a Fatal Attack Case
A fatal dog attack typically generates animal-control and law-enforcement records documenting what happened, the dog's history, and any prior complaints. These records matter because they can establish whether the person was lawfully present at the time of the attack, a key fact under Colorado's dog-bite statute. We work to secure and review this documentation before it is lost or destroyed.
We also gather witness accounts, scene photos, and any available medical records from HCA HealthONE Sky Ridge or other treating facilities. This evidence helps build a clear picture of how the attack occurred and supports the family's claim as it moves forward.
- Request copies of any animal-control or police reports related to the attack
- Identify witnesses who saw the attack or know the dog's history
- Preserve photos of the scene and any related documentation
- Keep records from HCA HealthONE Sky Ridge or other providers involved
- Speak with an attorney before discussing fault with an insurance company
Handling Fatal Attack Claims Near Lone Tree
Fatal dog attacks we see connected to Lone Tree happen in neighborhoods and corridors across the area, including near Lincoln Avenue, Yosemite Street, and along C-470, as well as in nearby Highlands Ranch and Parker. Douglas County Justice Center is the courthouse where a Lone Tree-based case would typically proceed if litigation becomes necessary.
Our office is in Denver, and we work with families throughout the Lone Tree area on these claims. For a full explanation of who may bring a wrongful-death claim in Colorado and what losses it can address, see our wrongful-death page.
What a Wrongful-Death Claim May Address
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the deceased's financial support
- Loss of care, companionship, and guidance
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Other losses recognized under Colorado wrongful-death law
What clients say about McCormick & Murphy
Real outcomes and reviews. Check Google reviews for the office that serves Lone Tree — and read client testimonials.
After I was hit by a drunk driver with no insurance, my own insurer refused UM benefits. McCormick & Murphy sued for uninsured motorist benefits and bad faith. A jury awarded me over $900,000.
C. O., Denver · UM / bad-faith verdict
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case depends on its facts, coverage, venue, and evidence.
Lone Tree Fatal dog attacks FAQ
Does the dog-bite statute cover fatal attacks?
Yes, C.R.S. § 13‑21‑124 can apply when a bite causes death, as long as the person was lawfully in a public place or lawfully on the dog owner's property. This statute helps establish the owner's liability for the attack itself.
Who can file a wrongful-death claim after a fatal dog attack?
That question is answered by Colorado wrongful-death law, not the dog-bite statute. Our wrongful-death page explains who may bring this type of claim and what it can address.
What records are important in a fatal dog attack case?
Animal-control and police records documenting the attack and the dog's history are often central to these cases. We also look at witness statements and any available medical records.
Do I need to have witnessed the attack to help the case?
No. Even if you did not see the attack happen, you may still have relevant information about the dog's history or the property where it occurred. We evaluate all potential sources of evidence.
How much does it cost to talk to a lawyer about a fatal dog attack?
The consultation is free. We only get paid if we recover money for the family.
Discuss a Lone Tree dog bite
Free consultation. No attorney fee unless we recover for you.