Orange, CA asked in Animal / Dog Law, Criminal Law and Personal Injury for California

Q: will i get in trouble if i shoot a dog attacking me while walking with a bb gun in california at the age of 17?

would i get arrested or in serious legal trouble. I recently just got attacked by a dog as well as my dog and if i had a bb gun and shot the bb gun at the attacking dog and killed it would i be in serious trouble?

2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: In California, using a BB gun in self-defense against a dog attack can lead to complex legal situations, especially for a minor. The law typically allows for self-defense against an imminent threat, but the use of a BB gun, particularly if it results in the death of the dog, could raise legal issues such as animal cruelty or the discharge of a weapon in a public place. These laws are sensitive to the specifics of each case, including the level of threat posed by the dog and the reasonableness of your response.

At 17, you are still considered a minor in California, which could impact the legal proceedings and the nature of any potential charges. In such a situation, it's crucial to seek legal advice promptly to understand your rights and obligations under the law. Remember, each case is unique and the legal outcomes can vary based on the specific circumstances and the interpretation of the law.

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
Answered
  • Little Neck, NY

A: You could. There are better and less cruel solutions. That dog doesn't know what it's doing. It's the owner's fault, or if it's a stray, an animal welfare agency could possibly assist. Good luck

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