In this engaging episode of Coffee with Jim and Kim, attorneys Jim Williams and Kimberly J. Raab of Burnett & Williams dig into the complexities of dog bite law in Virginia, with a special focus on Chesterfield County’s updated leash laws. As passionate dog owners themselves, Jim and Kim explore what “immediate control” really means, when a dog must be tethered, and how these rules shift depending on whether you’re on private property, public property, or in a dog-friendly business.
The conversation goes far beyond bites—covering lunge cases, injuries caused by dogs without physical contact, and the nuances of liability for landlords, tenants, delivery drivers, and even employers. They share real-life cases involving everything from restricted breeds in apartment complexes to service animals, rabies vaccination requirements, and contributory negligence. The episode even ventures into the legal territory of wild animals, exploring why strict liability applies and how “common sense” can make or break a case. Whether you’re a dog owner, a victim of an animal-related injury, or simply curious about how these laws work, this episode offers practical insights, cautionary tales, and expert guidance on navigating the legal landscape of animal liability in Virginia.
