Behavioral Evaluations for Court & Ordinance Cases

When a dog is cited under animal ordinances as aggressive, threatening, dangerous, or vicious, courts may order a behavioral evaluation before determining the outcome of the case. Owners also have the right to independently obtain a behavioral evaluation to present as evidence during court proceedings.

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In some cases, a professional behavioral evaluation may positively influence the outcome by helping the court better understand the dog, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the owner’s ability to safely manage the animal moving forward.

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One of the primary questions considered in these cases is whether the dog can be safely released back to the owner with a reasonable expectation that the dog will not pose a danger to the community.

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The likelihood of future aggressive behavior is influenced by multiple factors, including:

• The dog’s behavioral history

• Environmental influences

• Training and management practices

• Triggering circumstances surrounding the incident

• The owner’s knowledge, ability, and willingness to appropriately manage the dog

• The dog’s access to appropriate physical exercise, structure, enrichment, and mental stimulation

 

Aleisha Largent evaluates these factors in detail during the assessment process.

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Evaluation Process

Behavioral evaluations begin with a detailed case history review, which may initially be conducted by phone. The evaluation process typically includes:

• Review of incident details and records

• Owner interview

• Environmental and management assessment

• In-person evaluation of the dog

• Observation of handler interactions

• Behavioral observations and temperament assessment

• Completion of the C-BARQ (Canine Behavioral Assessment & Research Questionnaire)

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The scope and depth of the evaluation may vary depending on the specific details of the ordinance violation and the circumstances surrounding the case.

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Professional Reports

Following the evaluation, Aleisha Largent prepares a professional written report for the court, attorneys, and/or the owner. Reports may include:

• Background and case history

• Behavioral observations

• Assessment procedures utilized

• Environmental and management findings

• Risk factor analysis

• Professional conclusions and recommendations

 

All conclusions are objective, independent, and based on the facts of the case, behavioral observations, and professional assessment findings.

 

Aleisha Largent acts as a neutral third party and does not advocate for the dog, the owner, or the court. Evaluations are conducted impartially, and findings may or may not be favorable to the dog involved.

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Important Note Regarding Behavioral Expertise

Professionals with formal academic training in animal behavior may evaluate and interpret canine behavior differently than trainers or individuals without specialized behavioral education and scientific training. Behavioral assessments should always be interpreted within the context of the evaluator’s qualifications, experience, methodology, and scope of expertise.

Expert Animal Behavior Consulting

Aleisha Largent

 

Canine Behavior Consultant & Expert Witness

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Aleisha Largent has been qualified as an expert in animal behavior consulting within Colorado. She specializes in canine behavior, behavior modification, handling, training, and behavioral assessments.

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With years of hands-on experience working with a wide range of canine behavioral cases, Aleisha provides objective behavioral analysis rooted in practical experience, scientific understanding of animal behavior, and case-specific facts.

She is familiar with animal ordinances, animal control procedures, and behavioral evaluation protocols relevant to canine-related legal matters.

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Areas of Expertise

Aleisha Largent may provide:

• Objective behavioral analysis of dogs involved in legal cases

• Behavioral evaluations and temperament assessments

• Expert witness testimony

• Consultation for attorneys, courts, and clients

• Case review and interpretation of behavioral evidence

• Assistance formulating questions for witnesses and animal owners

• Review of reports, records, photographs, videos, and related materials

• Opinions regarding canine behavioral tendencies and motivations

• Analysis regarding foreseeability of aggression or injury

• Evaluation of whether behavioral warning signs were present or should have been recognized by the owner

 

She may be retained by:

• Defense attorneys

• Prosecuting attorneys

• Civil attorneys

• Courts

• Private parties involved in canine-related disputes or incidents

 

Behavioral Assessments

Behavioral evaluations may include:

• History review

• Environmental factors

• Trigger analysis

• Handling responses

• Sociability

• Reactivity

• Fear-based behaviors

• Aggression assessments

• Bite history evaluation

• Owner management practices

 

Each assessment is conducted individually and based on the specific facts and circumstances of the case.

 

Important Statement

Aleisha Largent does not state or testify that any specific breed of dog is inherently aggressive. Behavioral evaluations are based on the individual animal, environmental influences, training, handling, genetics, management, and documented behavioral history.

 

Fee Schedule

Initial Consultation & Assessment

$250

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Case Review & Consulting

$150/hour

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This may include:

• Reviewing reports and records

• Reviewing photographs or videos

• Conducting interviews

• Scientific and behavioral research

• Meetings with clients or attorneys

• Written consultation and analysis

 

Court Testimony

$275/hour

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Court Waiting Time

$150/hour

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Travel Time

$150/hour

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Additional expenses are billed as incurred.

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