Question
How much would it cost for a lawyer to help get my emotional support animal back from people who claim that I abandoned the animal? What would I do if I am denied getting the emotional support animal back? Would I file a civil suit for the amount I paid for the animal and everything else I paid for, or would I sue to have the animal returned?
Answer
I cannot say what an attorney would charge to attempt to get an animal returned. So much depends on what actions the attorney would need to take, including whether he/she commences a lawsuit. Bar associations often have attorney referral services. Some attorneys offer free consultations.
If the goal of a lawsuit is the return of an animal but the legal complaint asks for either the return or compensation for the cost of the animal and related expenses, the result of the lawsuit, even if successful, might end up not being the return of the animal.
In any event, success in a lawsuit for the return of an animal and/or for monetary compensation will depend on the facts and circumstances. For example, the court will consider evidence that demonstrates whether an animal was stolen, abandoned, or gifted.
I hope that everyone involved considers the best interests of this dog.
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