s28A Offence to Train Dogs to Attack

Have you been charged with the Offence to Train Dogs to Attack?

If so, there are some questions you need to consider with an experienced criminal lawyer before telling a court how you intend to plead. A guilty finding can result in prison time.

If you have trained your dog under an authorised registration regime, you may be able to mount a defence to a charge under this section.

Please read below for more information in relation to this charge.

The offence

Section 28A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994, train dogs to attack

The prosecution must prove:

1. The defendant trained a dog to:

   1. Attack;

   2. Bite;

   3. Rush at;

   4. Chase; or

   5. Menace persons, animals or anything worn by persons.

The maximum penalty

Imprisonment for 3 months or 60 penalty units.

Where will my case be heard?

The Offence to Train Dogs to Attack cases can only be heard in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria.

Questions to consider

Do you have a defence?

If you are pleading guilty, what can you do to minimise your sentence?

What to do next?

Consult an experienced criminal lawyer as a matter of urgency.

Don’t delay your preparation to the last minute, as thorough planning of your defence is critical to maximising the chance of a successful outcome.

If you have been charged with the Offence to Train Dogs to Attack arrange to see an experienced lawyer today.

The legislation

Section 28A Offence to train dogs to attack

A person must not train a dog to attack, bite, rush at, chase or in any way menace persons, animals or anything worn by persons, unless the dog is so trained—

(a) in the course of conducting a domestic animal business on premises that is registered under Part 4, if training of such a nature is authorised under that registration; and

(b) that person—

(i) is conducting; or

(ii) is employed by a person who is conducting—

a domestic animal business on premises that is registered under Part 4.

Penalty: 60 penalty units or imprisonment for 3 months.