Frequently asked questions
How is an examination instructed?
In the majority of cases we will be instructed by your solicitor following service of summons. You can instruct us in advance of a summons, but general advice would be to await a Police decision on how they intend to proceed with a case as Police may decide to deal with the matter out of court.
Do I need a solicitor?
Owners can instruct their own examination direct with us, but as matters will typically be a criminal investigation you may wish to speak with a solicitor. Whilst any solicitor can advise you some solicitors specialise in Dog Legislation.
How quickly can you conduct and examination?
Once instructed we will liaise with the Police service holding the dog and arrange access to conduct our examination. We can work on short time scales, and we can often conduct assessments within a week of instruction subject to both our availability and Police DLO availability.
Can the owner be present at an examination?
Not if the dog has been seized by Police, such examinations are conducted at confidential locations nominated by the Police and owners or third parties would not be permitted to attend. If we are conducting an examination of a dog not seized by Police at your home address then yes you certainly can be present. We record our assessments for full transparency.
I've got a DNA test that says my dog is primarily a certain breed, so it can't be a banned breed.
The legislation covering certain breed types is complex and relies on case law and conformation to breed standards. If your dog substantially conforms to those breed standards in the eyes of the law, there can be restrictions on ownership.