Best Dog Bite Lawyers in Florida
Cyrus S. Niakan
Personal Injury/Dog Bite Lawyer
Cyrus S. Niakan is a founding partner at Personal Injury of Florida, ranked a Tier 1 “Best Law Firm” by U.S. News – Best Lawyers®.
Cyrus’ talent, hard work, and high ethical standards have been recognized among his peers. He has earned Florida Bar Board Certification in Civil Trial Law, the highest level of recognition for the competency and experience of a civil trial lawyer. In addition, Cyrus maintains an AV Preeminent Rating (the highest rating available from Martindale-Hubbell, the leading independent attorney rating entity) and an AVVO 10/10 rating.
He is a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, an invitation-only trial honorary society composed of less than one half percent of lawyers in the nation. Cyrus has also been selected by U.S. News as among the Best Lawyers in America; The National Trial Lawyers as among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Florida and Top 40 Under 40; Florida Super Lawyers (distinction given to less than 2.5 percent of lawyers in the state); Florida Trend Legal Elite and Top Up & Comer (distinction given to only 132 lawyers statewide); and South Florida Legal Guide’s Top Attorneys.
Cyrus began his legal career as a defense attorney litigating cases on behalf of some of the nation’s largest insurance companies and corporations. During that time he learned how those companies evaluate claims and gained an understanding of the strategies used to defend cases. He now uses those invaluable insights to defend the rights of clients going up against corporate giants.
Cyrus earned his B.S. in Molecular & Cellular Biology and B.A. in English literature from the University of Washington. Cyrus attended law school at the University of Arizona on an academic scholarship.
Outside the courtroom, Cyrus is active within the community by volunteering with Legal Aid of Palm Beach County, Take Stock in Children – Palm Beach County, Misioneros del Camino and served for numerous years on the Board of Directors for 211 of Palm Beach County & Treasure Coast. Cyrus also lectures on expert witness discovery, trucking litigation, insurance coverage, and trial evidence.
Cyrus lives in West Palm Beach with his wife Luisa and two children. He speaks Farsi and Spanish
Michael K. Grife
Personal Injury/Dog Bite Lawyer
Michael K. Grife is a pre-eminent trial attorney, specializing in the areas of Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice. Mr. Grife has dedicated his entire career to exclusively representing the severely injured and loved ones of those who have been killed due to the recklessness of others. He routinely takes on insurance companies and corporate conglomerates, using his knowledge and assets to reverse the playing field in his clients’ favor. Throughout his career, Mr. Grife has served as lead counsel on numerous Multi-Million Dollar and Million Dollar recoveries for his clients.
Mr. Grife founded The Grife Law Firm in 2014 with one goal in mind: to provide top-level legal representation to the injured. To that end, The Grife Law Firm measures its success by the results it achieves for its clients, constantly striving to achieve the highest verdicts and settlement amounts possible.
Mr. Grife believes that the legal profession should be respected, and that is why he elects not to advertise on television or billboards. His boutique law firm in Boca Raton offers all of the assets and skill of a large firm, with the individualized service for our clients that is rarely seen. He further believes that clients should be serviced in a luxurious first-class environment where you will experience The Grife Law Firm difference from the moment you walk in the door.
Giving back to the South Florida community that he loves is a top priority for Mr. Grife. A Florida resident since 2002, Mr. Grife passionately supports animal rescue groups and ocean preservation charities.It his caring and compassion for others that motivates him to serve his valued clients and drives his success.
Tim Shanahan
Personal Injury/Dog Bite Lawyer
Tim graduated from the University of Tampa on a Presidential Scholarship, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management in 2012. Mr. Shanahan was a Professional Sports Staff Writer for the Tampa newspaper “The Minaret.” During his senior year, he worked full time selling group ticket packages and corporate suites for the Tampa Bay Rays.
Mr. Shanahan then graduated from Stetson University College of Law in Tampa. He served as the Vice President of the Entertainment and Sports Law Association. He also clerked for several firms including Jack Bernstein’s office working on cases involving personal injury, medical malpractice, employment, and sports. He volunteered as a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for children’s rights.
Tim grew up in New York and excelled in baseball as a pitcher and played on teams through his senior year. Through college, Mr. Shanahan participated competitively in intramural football, basketball and volleyball. He continues to be an avid health and nutrition enthusiast, exercising vigorously on a daily basis.
Outside the practice of law, Tim continues to grow in his faith and attends Bridgepoint Church in St. Petersburg. On Wednesday nights, Tim is a student ministry leader for children in grades six through twelve. Mr. Shanahan serves the Tampa Bay Community regularly through various charities and donation drives, including the children’s backpack drive, Build a Bed, Operation Christmas Child and sock collections.
MARC L. SHAPIRO
Personal Injury/Dog Bite Lawyer
Marc L. Shapiro, Esq. is the founder of The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A. With 29 years of experience, Marc L. Shapiro Esq. has served SWFL with integrity, passion, and a commitment to his clients.
Marc practices primarily in the areas of Plaintiff’s personal injury and wrongful death cases, complex commercial real estate litigation, title insurance disputes, foreclosure defense, mortgage law, bank workouts, short sales and commercial and residential landlord tenant disputes. Marc also represents and advises real estate investors and entrepreneurs in their transactional dealings including real estate closings, entity structuring and planning for both tax purposes and asset protection. Marc has been cited in local media on various legal topics and he has appeared on local news stations. Marc also makes frequent appearances on the legal eagle section of the radio show “Real Estate Best Buys”.
JEFF MURPHY
Personal Injury/Dog Bite Lawyer
Jeff Murphy was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and has lived in Tampa since 1972. He graduated from Jesuit High School and attended college at the University of Pennsylvania. In addition to his studies, Jeff played Ivy League football for two years. In 1987, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Jeff was then accepted to the University of Florida, Levin College of Law, where he graduated in 1990 with Honors, and in the top 10% of his class. Upon graduation, Jeff accepted a position with Hill Ward Henderson, one of the most prestigious law firms in Tampa. It was this opportunity that taught him the skills necessary to prosecute and defend lawsuits from beginning to conclusion. He discovered his passion – to use his knowledge of law to help people who have been injured or wronged.
Jeff has 33 years of experience as a trial lawyer and focuses his practice on personal injury and wrongful death cases. Based on the recommendations of other attorneys and judges, Jeff has been awarded an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest rating available for both legal ability and ethics. Fewer than 10% of attorneys have achieved this rating.
In 2015, Jeff became part of a legal team that represents almost 200 retired NFL players in the NFL concussion litigation. In 2011, a group of retired football players filed a lawsuit against the NFL, claiming that it was negligent for failing to take reasonable action to protect the players from harm. It has been established through scientific findings that these players suffered repeated head trauma and many of them were left with permanent brain injuries. The NFL has agreed to settle the lawsuit and has set aside at least $1 billion to resolve the claims. Depending on their age and the severity of the injury, the terms of the settlement allow retired players to collect anywhere between $25,000 and $5 million. Jeff is honored to be able to assist players in making a recovery so that they can protect themselves and their family’s future.
Jeff also has experience representing Plaintiffs all over the country. In 2014, he filed a lawsuit against the University of California Berkeley for the death of a college football player. This case was settled by the university for $4.75 million. Jeff also represented victims of the Las Vegas mass shooting that occurred at Mandalay Bay on October 1, 2017. He has the experience and resources necessary to pursue claims anywhere in the United States.
Jeff Starker
Personal Injury/Dog Bite Lawyer
Jeff Starker, lead attorney at Bengal Law: Florida Car Accident Lawyers and Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC, is committed to providing unparalleled personal attention to each client. With a boutique approach and an intentional focus on a low volume of cases, Jeff dedicates the time, attention, and expertise needed to achieve the highest possible value for every case.
With a robust background that spans 26 years, Jeff started his career as an insurance adjuster and insurance defense attorney. His unique journey from working to protect insurance companies to fighting for injury victims equips him with an understanding of the insurance industry’s playbook, a tool he now leverages to fight for his clients.
The accolades and awards Bengal Law has received, including recognition as one of the “Best Personal Injury Attorneys” and “Best Car Accident Lawyers” by Expertise, are a testament to Jeff’s dedication, results, and relentless pursuit of justice. However, the defining characteristic of Jeff’s practice is the direct access he offers. When you call Bengal Law, you’ll speak directly to Jeff Starker. You won’t be shuffled around with a case manager or paralegal – you have Jeff’s direct line and cell phone if you need it.
Jeffrey Starker’s commitment to personal service is complemented by a philosophy of treating clients like family. His focus on prompt and attentive communication sets Bengal Law apart from large billboard firms, ensuring that every client receives the personalized care they deserve.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Florida, Jeff’s unique perspective, inside knowledge, and relentless dedication position him to get you the compensation you rightfully deserve. Allow Jeff Starker to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and hold those responsible accountable. At Bengal Law, it’s not just about accolades; it’s about helping you rebuild your future and making a meaningful difference in your life.
Understanding Dog Laws in Florida
Introduction
Florida has specific laws and regulations governing dog ownership and liability. This article provides an overview of key aspects of dog law in the state, including owner responsibilities, dangerous dog designations, and the role of legal representation in dog bite cases.
I. Owner Responsibilities under Florida Law
A. Leash Laws
Florida law mandates that dogs must be restrained by a leash or otherwise confined within the owner’s property. This regulation is in place to ensure public safety and prevent incidents involving unrestrained dogs.
B. Responsible Pet Ownership
Owners are legally obliged to take necessary measures to prevent their dogs from posing a threat to public safety. This includes training, socialization, and properly securing their dogs within their property.
More information on Florida’s pet ownership responsibilities can be found here.
II. Dangerous Dog Designation
A. Definition of a Dangerous Dog
In Florida, a dog may be classified as dangerous if it has inflicted severe injury or caused the death of a person or another domestic animal without provocation. Additionally, a history of aggressive behavior may lead to this designation.
B. Consequences for Owners of Dangerous Dogs
Owners of dogs designated as dangerous must adhere to strict regulations, including muzzling the dog in public, displaying warning signs, and maintaining liability insurance coverage.
For more detailed information on Florida’s dangerous dog laws, click here.
III. Importance of a Good Lawyer in Dog Bite Cases
A. Expertise in Dog Bite Laws
Engaging a knowledgeable lawyer specializing in dog bite cases is crucial. They possess a deep understanding of Florida’s specific legal framework, enabling them to provide effective representation.
B. Maximizing Compensation
A proficient lawyer can assist victims in seeking the maximum compensation available for their injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
C. Navigating Complex Legal Procedures
Legal proceedings can be intricate, especially in cases involving dog bites. A skilled lawyer can guide clients through the process, ensuring that their rights are protected.
IV. Reporting Dog Bites in Florida
A. Reporting to Animal Control
In the event of a dog bite, it is imperative to promptly report the incident to local animal control authorities. This action helps in creating an official record of the incident and ensures appropriate follow-up measures are taken.
B. Seeking Medical Attention
Seeking immediate medical attention after a dog bite is crucial, even for seemingly minor injuries. This not only ensures the victim’s well-being but also provides documented evidence of the incident.
Conclusion
Familiarity with dog laws in Florida is essential for both dog owners and potential victims of dog bites. Adhering to responsible pet ownership, understanding dangerous dog designations, and recognizing the significance of legal representation in dog bite cases are all fundamental aspects of navigating the legal landscape surrounding dogs in Florida. If you find yourself involved in a dog bite case, consulting with a qualified lawyer specializing in dog-related incidents can significantly impact the outcome. Remember to also be aware of the reporting procedures and seek prompt medical attention if you are a victim of a dog bite.