Dealing With a Dog Attack

June 26, 2014  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

Being attacked by a dog or another aggressive animal can be a frightening experience. Victims of animal attacks often suffer lifelong consequences, including chronic pain, emotional trauma and even disfigurement. Unfortunately, children are often the victims of dog bites, and the injuries they sustain are usually serious.   At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we understand that an animal attack not only causes physical pain, but emotional pain as well. In some cases, cosmetic surgery and extensive treatment is required.  Our personal injury lawyers work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the treatment needed to fully recover and are compensated for your medical bills. Fighting for Your Rights Minnesota law clearly states that it is the responsibility of every pet owner to ensure that their animal does not bite or attack another person. Regardless of whether or not the animal was on or off the owner’s property, the owner of the animal must keep their pet under control. The owner of the dog or aggressive animal may be held liable for: Medical bills Pain and suffering Lost wages Disfigurement and scarring Rehabilitation costs If you or a loved one have been attacked by a dog or other aggressive animal, we can help you obtain the compensation you are entitled to. We take an individualized approach…

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Is It Ever Best to Choose a Jury Trial?

June 24, 2014  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

If you are deciding to bring a case to trial, it can be difficult to make the choice between a judge or jury trial. There are many reasons why one may be better than the other, but in some cases, a jury trial may be the best option for you to get the outcome you want. What is a Jury Trial? A jury trial is a trial that is brought before a jury of “the peers of the accused” in a criminal case, who have no prior knowledge of the case or anyone involved in the case. The jury makes the decision on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty and the judge is only in charge of making sure the law is upheld. Note: the jury only determines guilt, the judge is still responsible for deciding on the penalty. Choosing a Jury Trial The reason that many people choose a jury trial over a judge trial is because they feel like they can make a better case with sympathy than with evidence. A jury is much more likely to be swayed by emotions than a judge would be. Choosing a jury trial would beneficial in cases such as sexual harassment, emotional abuse, or other cases of being victimized by another person….

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Attorney Joan Quade named to Achieve Services Board

June 16, 2014  |  Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.

The law firm of Barna, Guzy and Steffen is proud to announce that Joan Quade (Shareholder and Litigation Group Practice Manager) has been elected to the ACHIEVE Services Board of Directors. Achieve Services is a nonprofit serving the Twin cities area and particularly the Anoka area, providing day training and habilitation programs that serves adults with developmental disabilities. The program recently celebrated 50 years of service with an open house, tours of the facility, and an evening of fun with bowling and other activities at Brunswick Zone XL in Blaine. Achieve gives training that helps to provide its participants a job at the Achieve site or to be placed into the community in a productive job. Achieve builds skills, careers and independence for its participants who gain the confidence of being employed. Achieve has done great things for this community and Joan Quade is proud to be a part of its mission!

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