my litter of puppies had their tails docked at the Vet. According to Airedale Terrier standard, they were docked too short. Now, any show quality puppies can only be pet quality. The co-breeder wanted the pick of the litter, which was to be a show quality puppy, as her dog is the Sire, and is a AKC Champion. Can I sue the Vet?
Optional Information: State/Country relating to Question: New Jersey Already Tried: Speaking to the Vet. She says that she did not cut them too short. However, according to the Standards for docking for an Airedale Terrier, she did. I provided her with the standards, and I repeatedly told her to leave more tail, and not to cut them too short.
Thank you for the post, I am happy to assist you by answering your questions. Yes, you can. From your description, this is a case of objectively verifiable negligence (failure to conform to applicable Standards for docking a Airedale Terrier). Please let me know if you need additional guidance.
where can I find a lawyer that would be interested in taking a case like this. Is this something that I can do by taking her to Small Claims court?
Yes, you can file in small claims court, without counsel (i.e. pro se), but bear in mind that the small claims cap of $3000.If your case is greater than $3000 but less than $15000 you would file in the Special Civil Division of District Court, and if greater than $15000 in the Law Division of Superior Court.In all situations except small claims court you should retain counsel to file suit on your behalf.To find an attorney to take this case, you should consider utilizing the county bar association's lawyer referral service. Here is a list of the lawyer referral services by county: http://www.njsba.com/for-the-public/lawyer-referral-service.htmlPlease let me know if you need additional guidance.
Experience: Negotiate, Draft, and Review many complex commercial agreements each year.
thank you. I will. See our club FB page to see the pups, Airedale Terrier- Mid Jersey Airedale Terrier Club USA.
Thank you, have a great day.