posted on Mar, 14 2018 @ 03:24 PM
a reply to:
slapjacks
I'm sure that someone has already noted this, but anyone can file suit against anyone else for any reason, but that certainly doesn't mean that
they'll win.
If the dog is the only thing in the lawsuit, it would probably go to a small claims court, where lawyers are generally not used to argue in front of a
judge. If you have enough documentation and proof that the dog was purchased/rescued in your name, and have vet bills paid by you, and anything else
indicating that the dog is your property and that you have been the main caretaker and provider for the animal, you should have no problem in a small
claims court. Most judges in those places are pretty logical and can spot frivolity pretty quickly.
As far as comments about visiting/seeing the dog and whatnot, verbal comments are generally not legally binding, so that shouldn't be a problem if she
doesn't have proof that you made such statements.
If she does take you to court over this, I would definitely counter-sue for any costs incurred and possibly for a small monetary amount to cover the
amount of time you are forced to invest in proving ownership of the animal.
But research the laws of your state and how they handle pets--I have no idea if some states regard them as family members and would require a
different court venue.