Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer | Bice Law
If you or a loved one was bitten by an aggressive dog, contact the Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer at Bice Law. We are here to fight for you! After a dog bite in Rock Hill, you want a Dog Bite Lawyer with expertise in dog bite injury cases and a successful record of proven results. While dogs provide companionship, it is important to recognize that dog bites can pose significant dangers.
Dog bites can be a serious and traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. In Rock Hill, South Carolina, Bice Law has a dog bite injury lawyer who specializes in handling cases related to dog bites. Our firm is knowledgeable about the state’s laws and regulations related to dog bites, and we can help you navigate the legal process if you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Rock Hill.
At Bice Law, our focus is not what our clients do for us, but what we can do for our clients. Our firm is passionate about what we do and we love fighting for our clients to ensure they are getting the maximum settlement available for their dog bite injury claim. With Bice Law, you’re choosing a Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawer that cares about you, about your family, about your dog bite injury recovery, and about helping you get your life back on track. Contact the Rock Hill Dog Bite Injury Lawyer of Bice Law today for your FREE consultation. We are ready to fight for you every step of the way.
Steps To Take After a Dog Bite in Rock Hill
If you have been injured by a dog bite in Rock Hill, you may not know what steps to take next. A dog bite can be a distressing and potentially dangerous incident. After a dog bite in Rock Hill, it’s crucial to take immediate and appropriate action to protect your health and well-being. We will guide you through the essential steps to take after a dog bite in Rock Hill, focusing on your safety, medical care, legal considerations, and the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Ensure Immediate Safety. The first and most critical step after a dog bite is to ensure your immediate safety. If the dog is still present and behaving aggressively, try to put a barrier between you and the dog, if possible. If the owner is present, ask them to restrain their dog.
Assess the Severity of the Injury. Examine the wound to determine its severity. Dog bites can range from minor scratches to deep puncture wounds. If the wound is bleeding heavily or appears deep, you should seek immediate medical attention. Even seemingly minor wounds can lead to serious infections, so it’s essential not to dismiss them.
Clean and Care for the Wound. If the wound is not severe, you can clean it at home. Wash the wound gently with soap and warm water to remove dirt and bacteria. Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and cover it with a clean bandage. Change the bandage daily and monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
Seek Medical Attention. Regardless of the wound’s severity, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional after a dog bite. They can assess the injury, prescribe antibiotics if necessary, and provide a tetanus shot if your immunization is not up to date. Additionally, they can document your injuries, which may be crucial for any legal proceedings.
Report the Incident. Reporting the dog bite is essential, as it helps track potentially dangerous animals and ensures public safety. Contact the Rock Hill Animal Control Department or the local police to report the incident. Provide as much information as possible, including a description of the dog, the owner’s information (if known), and the location and time of the incident.
Document Your Injuries. Document your injuries thoroughly by taking clear photographs of the wounds, bruising, and any torn or bloodied clothing. These photographs can be valuable if you need to file a personal injury claim or pursue legal action against the dog’s owner.
Gather Witness Information. If there were any witnesses to the dog bite, obtain their contact information. Witness statements can be essential if you decide to pursue legal action, as they can corroborate your account of the incident.
Consult an Attorney. If the dog bite resulted in significant injuries, you may want to consult a personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your legal rights and options, including the possibility of seeking compensation from the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance. An attorney can also guide you through the legal process and help you build a strong case if needed.
Follow Up on Medical Treatment. Continue to follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor the healing of the wound and check for signs of infection. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as fever, increased pain, or red streaks radiating from the wound, seek medical attention immediately.
Consider Counseling. Experiencing a dog bite can be emotionally traumatizing. It’s not uncommon to develop anxiety, fear, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after such an incident. If you find yourself struggling with emotional distress, consider seeking counseling or therapy to address these issues.
Promote Responsible Pet Ownership. Lastly, consider advocating for responsible pet ownership in your community. While this step may not directly address your immediate concerns, it can help prevent future dog bites. Encourage pet owners to properly train, socialize, and supervise their dogs. Additionally, support efforts to enforce leash laws and promote responsible breeding and adoption practices.
Experiencing a dog bite in Rock Hill or any other location can be a traumatic experience, but taking the right steps afterward is crucial for your health, safety, and potential legal recourse. Remember that your well-being is the top priority, so always make medical treatment your first priority and consult with an experienced Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer to guide you through this challenging situation.
Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me in Rock Hill, SC
After being injured from a dog bite, your first search should be for a Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me in Rock Hill, NC. Bice Law stands out as the experienced dog bite lawyer near you. With a proven track record of successfully handling dog bite cases, our legal experts possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of these situations. We prioritize your well-being and work tirelessly to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Dog bite cases demand a nuanced understanding of local laws and regulations. Our legal team at Bice Law is well-versed in the intricacies of dog bite statutes in your area, ensuring that every aspect of your case is thoroughly examined. We leverage our expertise to build a strong and compelling case on your behalf.
There are many reasons why you might want to consider hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer near you, if you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Rock Hill. Here are just a few:
Knowledge of the Law
Choosing an experienced dog bite lawyer near you is not only practical but also beneficial for building a strong case. Bice Law’s local presence ensures that we are familiar with the community, local authorities, and any specific regulations that may impact your case. This local advantage enhances our ability to represent you effectively.
Experience with Insurance Companies
Our team has unparalleled experience dealing with insurance companies, which are often involved in these types of cases. We can help you negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Bice Law has built a reputation inside and outside of the courtroom. The insurance companies know that we will take any case to trial if we feel that our clients are being mistreated. If your case goes to court, our experienced dog bite lawyer is prepared to successfully fight for you.
Maximum Compensation
An experienced dog bite lawyer can help you pursue the maximum compensation available for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The insurance company will never offer you what you deserve for your injuries and an experienced dog bite injury lawyer like Bice Law will know what can be done to get the best result.
Investigative Support
Our experienced dog bite lawyer knows to investigate every aspect of your injury from the beginning so that there is no detail left uncovered. Dog bite lawyers have the resources and experience to investigate the incident thoroughly. This may include gathering witness statements, obtaining medical records, and consulting with experts to determine the extent of your injuries. They can also examine the dog owner’s history to establish negligence.
Compassionate Approach
At Bice Law, we recognize that each dog bite case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. Our compassionate legal team takes the time to listen to your story, understand the details of the incident, and provide personalized guidance throughout the legal process. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Fighting For You
If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Bice Law, your trusted and experienced dog bite lawyer near you, is a firm that fights for clients from consultation to settlement. We are committed to fighting for you every step of the way! Contact Bice Law today for a consultation, and let us help you on the path to recovery.
Peace of Mind
Hiring a dog bite lawyer can give you peace of mind during a difficult and stressful time. You can focus on recovering from your injuries while your lawyer handles the legal issues.
A Rock Hill dog bite lawyer is an essential partner when seeking justice and compensation after a dog bite incident. They bring their legal expertise, investigative skills, negotiation prowess, and emotional support to the table. With their help, you can navigate the legal process, secure the compensation you deserve, and take steps toward healing and recovery. If you’ve been a victim of a dog bite in Rock Hill, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of a qualified dog bite lawyer by calling Bice Law today for your FREE CONSULTATION.
Who is held liable for dog bite injuries in Rock Hill?
If you or a loved one have been injured by a dog bite in Rock Hill, you may be wondering who is held liable and can you recover from the monetary damages associated with your dog bite injury. In Rock Hill dog bite injury laws can vary depending on the jurisdiction, so it’s important to consult with a Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer who specializes in personal injury or dog bite injury cases to get accurate and specific advice.
While laws can vary, in general, dog owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. In many jurisdictions, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their dogs biting or attacking someone, particularly if the owner was negligent in handling or controlling the dog. However, the specific laws and rules regarding dog bite liability can differ. There are certain situations where the owner may argue that you provoked the dog or were trespassing on their property, which could potentially affect liability.
Some jurisdictions follow a “strict liability” rule, which means that the dog owner is held responsible for the injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether they were aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies or not. In such cases, the injured person usually doesn’t need to prove negligence on the part of the owner. Other jurisdictions may have “one-bite” or “negligence” rules, where the owner may be liable if they were aware or should have been aware that their dog had a propensity for biting or had previously bitten someone. In some situations, liability may also extend to other parties, such as landlords or property owners, if they were aware of a dangerous dog on their property and failed to take appropriate action.
It’s crucial to consult with a Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer like Bice Law, who specializes in personal injury law and dog bite injury cases in South Carolina to understand the laws and regulations that apply to your situation. Our firm will be able to provide you with accurate legal advice based on South Carolina personal injury laws.
Holding Negligent Pet Owners Responsible for Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause extremely serious injuries, especially for children who are often bitten in the neck and face. Puncture wounds can become infected, causing poor healing. Lacerations can cause nerve damage, pronounced scarring, and lifelong disfigurement. Victims often suffer post-traumatic stress and a deep fear of animals after an attack, which can be life-changing.
The victims of dog attacks deserve compensation. That compensation generally comes from the homeowners’ insurance policy carried by the dog owner. As your attorney, I will investigate this and any other sources of compensation for you to get you the compensation that you deserve.
What if the dog that bit me was provoked?
Provocation is a valid defense that a dog owner, or owner’s insurance company, may use. If the injured person knew the dog could be dangerous and yet engaged in acts that provoked the dog or put him or herself in harm’s way, the dog owner may not be liable.
Provocation is often a disputed question when children suffer dog bites. Did the child understand that the dog could be dangerous? Did the child hit or taunt the dog? The age and intellectual capacity of the child to understand his or her actions are factors in deciding if any actual provocation occurred.
What is the “Strict Liability” Rule in South Carolina Dog Bite Injuries?
South Carolina follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bite injuries. According to this rule, dog owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the owner knew about the dog’s aggressive tendencies or previous bites. The injured party does not need to prove negligence on the part of the owner. Dog bite incidents can result in serious injuries and legal complexities. If you reside in South Carolina, it is important to be familiar with the state’s laws regarding dog bite liability. If successful in establishing liability, the injured party may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and in some cases, punitive damages. Punitive damages may be awarded if the owner’s conduct was particularly reckless or intentional.
While South Carolina has a strict liability rule, there are exceptions where the dog owner may not be held liable. If the injured person was trespassing on private property at the time of the incident or provoked the dog in a manner that led to the bite, the owner may argue that their liability should be reduced or eliminated.
Understanding dog bite liability laws in South Carolina is essential for both dog owners and potential dog bite victims. While the state follows a strict liability rule, there are exceptions and defenses to consider. If you have been injured in a dog bite incident, seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney is recommended to protect your rights and pursue appropriate compensation. Remember to consult with a legal professional who can provide accurate guidance based on the specific details of your case and the most up-to-date dog bite injury laws in South Carolina.
How long do I have to file a dog bite injury claim in Rock Hill, SC?
Experiencing a dog bite injury can be a traumatic event, leaving physical and emotional scars that may require medical treatment and financial compensation. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Rock Hill, South Carolina, it’s essential to understand the legal timeframe within which you can file a claim to seek compensation for your injuries. This article aims to provide clarity on the statute of limitations for dog bite injury claims in Rock Hill, SC, ensuring that you can take timely action to protect your rights.
Statute of Limitations in South Carolina
In South Carolina, including Rock Hill, there is a statute of limitations that dictates the timeframe within which a person must file a lawsuit or claim after being injured by a dog. The statute of limitations for dog bite injury claims in South Carolina is typically three years from the date of the injury.
Reasons for the Statute of Limitations: The statute of limitations serves several important purposes in the legal system. It encourages prompt resolution of legal disputes, ensuring that cases are adjudicated while evidence and witness testimony are still fresh. Additionally, it provides a degree of certainty and finality, preventing potential defendants from facing indefinite exposure to legal claims.
Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations: While the general statute of limitations for dog bite injury claims in Rock Hill, SC, is three years, there are exceptions that may alter this timeframe. For example, if the injured party is a minor at the time of the incident, the statute of limitations may be extended, allowing them to file a claim within three years of turning 18 years old.
Importance of Timely Action: It’s crucial to take prompt action if you’re considering filing a dog bite injury claim in Rock Hill, SC. Waiting too long to pursue legal action can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation for your injuries. Evidence may become stale or lost, witnesses’ memories may fade, and crucial documentation may become more difficult to obtain as time passes.
Consulting with a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer: If you’ve been bitten by a dog and are unsure about the legal options available to you, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced dog bite injury lawyer in Rock Hill, SC. Our firm has the experience handling dog bite injury claims to get you the best possible outcome!
If you have questions or concerns about the statute of limitations or any other aspect of your dog bite injury claim, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer at Bice Law!
Why Hire a Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer?
There are many reasons why you might want to consider hiring a Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer if you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Rock Hill. Here are just a few:
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Knowledge of the Law. Dog bite lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations related to dog bite injuries in Rock Hill. They can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.
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Experience with Insurance Companies. Dog bite lawyers have experience dealing with insurance companies, which are often involved in these types of cases. They can help you negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. The Frontline Injury Team at Bice Law will stop at nothing to get our clients the compensation that they deserve.
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Representation in Court. If your case goes to court, a dog bite lawyer can provide representation and ensure that your interests are represented. Bice Law has an experienced litigation attorney with a proven track record of excellent settlement results from Rock Hill dog bite injuries.
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Maximum Compensation. A dog bite lawyer can help you pursue the maximum compensation available for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our firm has won numerous cases and recovered over $500,000 for our clients who have been victims of dog bite injuries.
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Peace of Mind. Hiring a Rock Hill dog bite lawyer can give you peace of mind during a difficult and stressful time. You can focus on recovering from your injuries while we, as your attorney handle the legal issues.
What evidence do I need to support my dog bite claim?
Medical Records and Documentation: One of the most important pieces of evidence in a dog bite claim is your medical records and documentation related to the injury. This includes medical reports, doctor’s notes, treatment records, and any photographs of your injuries taken immediately after the incident. These documents provide crucial proof of the extent and severity of your injuries resulting from the dog bite.
Photographic Evidence: Photographs of the bite wounds, bruises, or other injuries can serve as powerful visual evidence in your claim. Take clear, detailed photos of your injuries as soon as possible after the incident, and continue to document the healing process over time. Additionally, photographs of the scene where the dog bite occurred and any visible signs of negligence, such as broken fences or “Beware of Dog” signs, can strengthen your case.
Witness Statements: Witness statements from individuals who saw the dog bite incident can provide invaluable testimony to support your claim. Collect contact information from any witnesses present at the scene and ask them to provide written or recorded statements detailing what they saw. Witness testimony can corroborate your account of the incident and provide additional evidence of the dog owner’s negligence.
Dog Owner Information: Obtain as much information as possible about the dog and its owner following the incident. This includes the owner’s name, address, phone number, and any available insurance information. If the dog owner was present at the scene, exchange contact information and document the interaction. This information will be essential for identifying the responsible party and pursuing compensation.
Animal Control Reports: Reporting the dog bite incident to animal control or local authorities creates an official record of the incident, which can support your claim. Animal control reports may contain details about the dog’s history of aggression, vaccination status, and any prior incidents of biting. Request a copy of the animal control report and include it as part of your evidence.
Evidence of Negligence: If the dog owner or another party acted negligently, resulting in the dog bite incident, gather evidence to support your claim of negligence. This may include photographs of inadequate fencing or containment, witness statements regarding the dog’s aggressive behavior, or documentation of previous complaints or incidents involving the dog.
Documentation of Damages: Keep thorough records of any financial losses or damages incurred as a result of the dog bite, such as medical bills, receipts for medications, and proof of lost wages or income. These documents demonstrate the economic impact of the injury and provide a basis for calculating compensation.
Gathering compelling evidence is essential to support your dog bite claim and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. By collecting medical records, photographic evidence, witness statements, dog owner information, animal control reports, evidence of negligence, and documentation of damages, you can build a strong case to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. If you have questions about the evidence needed for your dog bite claim, contact the experienced Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer at Bice Law. Our Frontline Injury Team is ready to fight for you, every step of the way!
How long does it take to settle a dog bite case?
Initial Evaluation and Investigation: The timeline for settling a dog bite case often begins with an initial evaluation by a personal injury attorney. During this stage, the attorney will review the details of the case, including medical records, evidence of the dog bite incident, and potential liability of the dog owner. The duration of this evaluation and investigation phase can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of evidence.
Medical Treatment and Recovery: The timeline for settling a dog bite case may be influenced by the injured party’s medical treatment and recovery process. It’s essential to complete all necessary medical treatment before pursuing a settlement to ensure that the full extent of the injuries and related expenses is known. This may include surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care, which can prolong the settlement timeline.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: In many dog bite cases, settlement negotiations occur between the injured party’s attorney and the dog owner’s insurance company. These negotiations may involve presenting evidence, medical records, and documentation of damages to support the claim for compensation. The duration of settlement negotiations can vary depending on the responsiveness of the insurance company and the complexity of the case.
Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): If settlement negotiations with the insurance company are unsuccessful, the parties may opt for mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to resolve the case outside of court. During mediation, a neutral third party facilitates discussions between the parties to reach a mutually acceptable settlement. The timeline for mediation can vary depending on scheduling and the number of sessions needed to reach an agreement.
Litigation and Court Proceedings: If settlement negotiations and alternative dispute resolution methods are unsuccessful, the dog bite case may proceed to litigation and court proceedings. This typically involves filing a lawsuit, discovery, pre-trial motions, and ultimately, a trial before a judge or jury. The duration of litigation can vary significantly depending on court schedules, the complexity of the case, and other factors.
Settlement or Judgment: The final stage in settling a dog bite case occurs when the parties reach a settlement agreement or when a judgment is rendered by the court. If the case is settled, the parties will sign a settlement agreement outlining the terms of the resolution. If the case goes to trial, the judge or jury will determine the outcome, and a judgment will be issued. Once a settlement or judgment is reached, the case is considered resolved.
The timeline for settling a dog bite case can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the extent of the injuries, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. While some cases may be resolved relatively quickly through settlement negotiations, others may require litigation and court proceedings, which can extend the timeline significantly. By working with an experienced Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer, you can get the maximum compensation for your injury claim. Contact Bice Law today for your FREE CONSULTATION! We fight for our clients from consultation to settlement.
Experienced Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer
Bice Law has an experienced and skilled Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer prepared to fight to get you the compensation you deserve! The early morning jogger, the elderly couple taking a walk in the evening, the child walking home from school or playing in the yard, the delivery person coming to the door — these are the people most at risk for dog bites and animal attacks. We proudly serve members of the Rock Hill community and surrounding areas in York County. At Bice Law, we have extensive experience guiding families through the legal matters of these troubling cases. When you are ready to explore your legal options, we will be here for you. Contact the personal injury firm of Bice Law today to get a free consultation with a dog bite attorney. We’ll review your situation free of charge and advise you of your legal options.
In Rock Hill, South Carolina, Bice Law is the leading attorney specializing in cases related to dog bite injuries. Our Frontline Injury Team working with experienced trial attorney, Justin Bice, is extremely knowledgeable about the state’s laws and regulations related to dog bites. Our Rock Hill Dog Bite Attorney can help you navigate the legal process if you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog.
It’s not unusual to hear neighbors say after the ambulance pulls away: “That dog bit my son before,” or “That dog has been a problem in this neighborhood for years.” Even if the dog owner won’t admit to the problem, the neighbors will. That’s when the investigative skills of a Rock Hill dog bite lawyer come into play. Over 1,000 dog bite victims are seen in hospital emergency departments daily throughout the US.
Client Reviews for Bice Law
Bice Law has helped countless victims injured from Dog Bites and other personal injuries. At Bice Law, client reviews are highly important because they show the results of how hard we fight for our clients and also spread the word to more injury victims who may need our assistance. Here are reviews from clients we have successfully assisted with a personal injury matter.
“Great assistance, & highly recommended if you are looking for a lawyer to help you with a personal injury case. Treated me with much respect and kept me updated the entire time!
Zach B.-Google Review
“Everyone that assisted me was more than friendly and helpful. It made for an unbeatably reassuring experience in an otherwise intimidating situation.”
Nate M.-Google Review
“Calling Bice Law is the best decision you could make when you have a personal injury claim. I recommend them to everyone.”
Christen W.-Google Review
“All staff are very knowledgeable and professional! Highly recommended for anyone looking for a personal injury attorney.”
Lindsay C.-Google Review
Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer at Bice Law
There are many factors that need to be investigated in a dog bite case. Some of these factors include but are not limited to uncovering the dog’s past behavior and general temperament, identifying if any insurance is available to satisfy a claim, and understanding who will be held accountable. If you have a question about whether you have a potential dog bite injury claim, take the first step to protect your legal rights contact the personal injury law firm of Bice Law and speak with our Rock Hill Dog Bite Lawyer. We serve families across both North and South Carolina.
We urge all f our clients to act as quickly as possible after an injury. You only have a limited time after your injury to file a claim. Contact the personal injury firm of Bice Law today by calling 877-BICE-877 or submit an online request to get a free consultation with a dog bite attorney. Results are how we measure success – we’ve built a strong reputation both in and out of the courtroom, and we’ll put our experience and expertise to work on your behalf.
Call Bice Law TODAY
Bice Law LLC | Rock Hill
Address: 2237 Celanese Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Phone: (803) 639-8777
“I would highly recommend Bice Law Firm to anyone looking for an injury attorney. I started with a larger firm but my case was going nowhere. After 2 years it was transferred to Bice Law Firm. Mr. Bice was able to secure a larger settlement than the previous firm had even considered, and in less than half the time the other firm took. Skip the large firms and just go directly to one that gets results and quickly.”
B. Nugent-Google Review
“Bice Law presented us with an amazing experience from start to finish. Their team fought for myself and my family to receive the settlement I deserved and I couldn’t be more appreciative.”
C. Varnadore-Google Review
“They were really awesome at a challenging time. Quick, professional and thorough in their work and communication. While I hope the reason never arises again, I’d certainly call them again if needed.”
T. Burch-Google Review
“Bice Law firm is the best around, great communication with their clients, best service you will ever get. Best lawyers, they help me alot to get the most of my case.”
Rahbot N.-Google Review
“I would highly recommend Bice law firm to anyone who is in need of a personal injury attorney. They were kind and motivated, and always willing to help with our case. Thank you Bice Law.”
C. White-Google Review
