The Inner Workings of a Law Firm

When Should You Sue Your Neighbor?

17 May 2016 by Jo Rodriquez

You may think suing your neighbor is never a good idea, and usually, it isn't. After all, living next to someone you have to face in court or over a lawyer's table can put a real crimp in the neighborhood block party. In the case of most disputes, you should do everything possible to stay out of court, even if it means putting up with that barking dog or occasional garage band practice next door. In some cases, you do need to pursue your legal options in order to protect your property, your family, and your health.

Property Boundaries

Before you bought your property, you should have had it surveyed to establish the true property lines. If your neighbor begins to build a new garage that extends several feet onto your property, you cannot ignore it. If you allow this usage, it can complicate selling your home later. Your neighbor can argue that you agreed to this accommodation and may be able to use that bit of your land as long as they wish, something called adverse possession. If you stop this construction, your neighbor may be angry, but it's a small price to pay to prevent land encroachment. 

Aggressive Pets

Navigating unfriendly pets is a tricky business. Just because your neighbor's dog doesn't like you doesn't mean it isn't a valued member of their family. However, if your neighbor's animal bites you or threatens your children, you really can't ignore it. Although you may not want to sue over one incident, you need to demand that their animals are safely restrained. If a second incident occurs, you need to seek legal help. Your family's safety is more important than friendly next-door relationships.

Injuries

If you are injured at your neighbor's house, you may end up suing them for damages. Although this move sounds hostile, it may be a simple matter of survival. In most cases, your neighbor's homeowner's policy should cover a fall down their stairs or a trip on their sidewalk. However, if the insurance company balks, your insurance company or your personal attorney may need to sue. Although you are not blaming your neighbors for the accident, you may not have your medical bills covered or lost wages repaid if the legal system does not get involved. 

Sometimes taking your neighbor to court is the only logical solution. Do not use this as your first strategy, however. Try and talk things out first before you hire an attorney. Contact a law office, such as The Law Office of Israel S Hernandez, PLLC, for more information.   

Share