Q: How do I take legal action against a dog handler extorting me and get my dog back, and without harm to dog?
Update
verbal agreement of breeding- handler is extorting me by not returning my dog unless I give her 500 cash and sign a contract I have never seen.
Handler has had my dog for a week to breed. Handler decided she now needs a written contract, and stalled me after driving 2 hours to retrieve my dog, saying she didn’t have contract ready, then ultimately pretended not be home when I knocked to get my dog.
I was okay with original terms, but after all this headache of downtown time of trying to get her back, we have returned home with no dog I don’t think that’s fair and have asked to go through legal channels.
Police will not help and say it’s a civil matter. My kids are heartbroken, it’s two days to Christmas.
Tonight she has threatened to give my dog the the morning after pill unless I agree to her terms. I need a court order.
A:
See: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=9.08.070. This law makes it a crime to steal or otherwise harm a pet animal in WA State. The application of this law is fact dependent. Also, it sounds like your opponent is claiming a lien on your dog, though I only know of such liens in the case of certain livestock (not dogs) - see https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=60.56&full=true. As for your contractual issues, more info is required, though of course you cannot be legally forced to sign this contract.
More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney such as myself. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AliEsq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, WA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.
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