Thanks to folks who are responding to my query...it IS helpful to see how a GENERAL population reacts to the facts (i.e. "a jury"), and that helps determine if cases settle before a trial or actually go to trial. That is the stage the this case is at, and my attorney friend is asking a lot of people for their reactions. This group is a unique population because it is NOT biased against the dog - whose breed is going to be pumped up if at trial. To the skeptics: Of course medical experts give their testimony, but it is up to jury to determine what is relevant. So to clarify: you aren't being asked for your medical opinion, you're being ask for your reaction to the facts and how you would decide. (as to the poster questioning this being my first post since joining: i have never had anything to talk about before this. I am sure you aren't holding that against me. This seems like a reasonable group.) Thank you again for weighing in, the responses are interesting and helpful!