I'm sorry about what your pet is going through. You'll need to search online for information about the case, and contact the administrator or one of the managing attorneys. If an attorney is handling your current case on an individual basis, first discuss with them and let them know about... View More

James L. Arrasmith Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 31, 2024

In Dorchester County, South Carolina, there are no specific laws or ordinances that prohibit burying a pet in your backyard. However, it is generally recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure public health and safety:

1. Choose a location that is far from any water sources, such as... View More

James L. Arrasmith Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 11, 2025

This situation is stressful, and you're right to want to take action. Even without a written contract, the boarder is on your property under what's likely considered a verbal or informal agreement, but their refusal to leave and the damage caused makes this more than just a business... View More

James L. Arrasmith Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 7, 2025

This situation sounds heartbreaking, and you're right to feel upset and betrayed. If your ex did not have legal authority—such as power of attorney or written consent—to make medical decisions for your dog, the vet may have acted improperly by relying solely on your ex’s word. Your dog... View More

James L. Arrasmith Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 14, 2025

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this—it’s painful to be separated from your dog, especially knowing someone else is holding him and demanding money for his return. Since you have photos, witness statements, and text messages confirming that the dog is yours, that’s strong evidence... View More

James L. Arrasmith Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 13, 2025

It sounds like you're facing a tough situation with your dog and the fines related to the incidents. When you go to court, you’ll want to explain the steps you’ve taken to secure your dog, such as using chains, collars, and eventually building a fence. Showing that you’ve made efforts to... View More

James L. Arrasmith Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

This sounds like a really stressful situation, and it's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed. In South Carolina, once you legally transfer ownership of a dog—whether through written contract or clear communication like texts—the new owner becomes responsible for the animal.... View More

A gift is a gift, just don't voluntarily turn the dog over. He is unlikely to find a lawyer who will bring a case against you for it, but if he does obviously you may need to look into getting yourself a lawyer at that time.

Like in most jurisdictions, South Carolina law considers dogs to be items of personal property like a TV set or a lamp. The value of a dog for purposes of legal damages is the fair market value of the dog at the time of the loss. As in most jurisdictions, SC law does not allow any recovery for... View More

This isn't a family law question, it's a personal injury question. The owner of a dog is strictly liable for any injury or damage done by their dog. If the dog owner has renter's or homeowner's insurance, it will cover any damages caused by the dogs. You would need to file a... View More

In South Carolina there is strict liability for dog attacks. If someone is injured as a result of a dog attack (even in attempting to get away from a charging dog where there is no bite) the owner of the dog is responsible. Absent that, you might consider contacting your local animal control to... View More

I am so sorry that happened to you. As to a case, potentially, yes but generally in South Carolina pets are only reimbursed at “market value” as property. However, you may also have a case against them depending on the nature of your detention. Be advised state agencies are subject to a... View More

How did the woman come to obtain the birds?

Without knowing this, specifically whether you entrusted her with the birds and she refused to return them, whether she broke in to somewhere and took them without your permission or knowledge, etc., it’s impossible to examine whether there is a... View More

Here is the process for selling the animal and getting to assert a lien against the sales proceeds for all costs that you have:

SECTION 29-15-60. Animal boarding facilities; liens upon animals for boarding expenses.

The owner of an animal boarding facility, at the end of an agreed... View More

He would have to file a claim and delivery action in Magistrate Court to force you to return the dog. If you both have an ownership interest in the dog you have just as much right to keep the dog as he does. If on the other hand he can prove that he is the sole owner of the dog then the court would... View More

You might not even need a lawyer. You could contact your local officials in the city council or town board and discuss your concerns with them. Good luck

Tim Akpinar

Absolutely. You will need to contact your local law enforcement agency and file a report so that they can start an investigation. You can also file a civil matter in Magistrates court to get your dog back from the person.

Absolutely call the police and the humane society. There is no statute of limitations on doing either.

No, they cannot.

Generally no. They may be responsible for your property damage. Note also that a dogs "value" in most states is minimal.

However if they are making a claim you have an obligation to notify your insurance. Do not discuss on social media.Talk less, listen more if dealing with them.