Many of us view our pets as part of our family but do not always consider the fact that these dependent animals will require care even after an owner is no longer able to care for them. A pet trust is one way to legally arrange to provide care of a companion animal after an owner's disability or death.  Typically, a trustee will hold property in trust for the benefit of the grantor's pets.  This is particularly beneficial when pets have a longer life expectancy such as horses or birds.

Please contact us today so that we can help you set up a legally enforceable arrangement that will give you peace of mind.

Problems often arise when more than one owner claims custody over a pet when a relationship ends.  Unfortunately  under the law, companion animals are still considered personal "property."  While many people view pets as their family members, they are not treated the same way as children in custody cases.  The simplest way to avoid custody dispute issues is to have a pet custody agreement in place that details pet care responsibilities and ownership interest.  We can help you draft an individualized agreement to prevent these types of issues down the road.

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If you are currently involved in a pet custody dispute where no agreement is in place, we can help you navigate the legal system with the goal of keeping your pet with you.  This may require negotiation, mediation, and/or litigation in court to establish who the custodial owner of the pet should be.

When transferring ownership interest in animals, it is important to consult an attorney when drafting legal documentation.  Here at the Law Office of Kelly L. King, we can create individualized contracts for all types of companion pet matters, including: 

• Sales/Rehoming contracts for all animals including horses, dogs, and cats

• Breeders contracts

• Rescue contracts

• Equestrian/Stable Liability Waivers

If you have received a charge for having either a dangerous or vicious dog, it is important that you consult with an attorney immediately.  There are a number of potentially serious consequences if a court finds that your dog is dangerous or vicious.  Your dog may be confiscated during while the case is pending and you may be responsible for the reasonable expenses of caring for your dog.  You could be responsible for restitution in the event that injuries occurred.  Additionally, if your dog is found to be dangerous then you may be required to take a number of steps including registering your dog on a dangerous dog registry, properly confining/muzzling your dog, and provide signage on your property.   In certain circumstances, the court may order that a dog be euthanized.  Contact us immediately at 571-252-9887 to discuss how best to defend against these types of charges.