Personal Injury Law

Lillian's Law on Dog Attacks

By Beth Janicek

After blogging on dog attacks, I realized the extent of this controversial topic. I found another sad article on Tanner Monk, a 7-year old mauled to death last May near his home in Breckenridge by four pit bulls owned by Crystal Watson and Jack Smith. Crystal and Jack lived out in the country and never thought twice about letting their dogs run loose. I am certain Tanner Monk’s family would have liked them to think twice about it.

Under Lillian's law, named after Lillian Stiles who was also killed by a pack of dogs, owners can face up to 20 years if their dogs get off their property and attack “unprovoked”. Crystal and Jack received a seven year sentence but they are free on an appeals bond. Most dog owners are not aware of Lillian’s law nor the extent of punishment.

Owners should be held accountable for their dogs, regardless of the breed. Due to the size and strength of pit bulls, whether their dogs have shown aggressive behavior, owners should be overly cautious. I did a previous blog that on the civil side, I believe Texas needs to pass litigation to hold owners strictly liable for any injury their dog inflicts.

Full post as published by San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyer on January 22, 2009 (boomark / email).