Mary Randolph

J.D. · UC Berkeley School of Law

Mary Randolph earned her law degree from the UC Berkeley School of Law. She is the author of The Executor's Guide: Settling a Loved One's Estate or Trust8 Ways to Avoid Probate, and other books about law for nonlawyers. She has been a guest on The Today Show and has been interviewed by many publications, including the Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, and more.


Articles by Mary Randolph

Strict Liability Dog-Bite Laws
Most states in the U.S. make dog owners financially responsible when their animals bite someone, even if the owner wasn’t negligent or didn’t know the dog could be dangerous. But there may be exceptions and conditions.
Can You Take Your Dog-Bite Case to Small Claims Court?
Understand what to do after a dog bite, from the minutes after the incident to a possible case in small claims court.
Understanding the "One-Bite" Rule for Dogs
In many states, the law makes owners liable for bites and other injuries only if they knew--or should have known--that their pet was dangerous.
Dog Owner Liability Laws: Legal Responsibility for Bites and Other Injuries
An outline of the general principles governing the civil and criminal liability of dog owners when their pets hurt someone—and links to find more details.
Animal Cruelty and Neglect Laws and Penalties
State animal cruelty laws punish a wide range of behavior, from torturing animals to not providing proper shelter or veterinary care.
Tax Deductions for Charitable Contributions
Learn the rules for how much you can deduct in charitable contributions.
Landlord Liability for Tenants' Dogs
Want to know if you're liable for a tenant's dog bite? Get the legal facts on when a landlord can be held responsible for injuries caused by a tenant's dog.
What Is Your Domicile?
Is your legal domicile where you live right now? Probably, but not necessarily.
Naming a TOD Beneficiary for Your Car
If your state allows it, consider naming a transfer-on-death (TOD) beneficiary for your vehicles.
What Property to Put in a Living Trust
For the greatest benefit, hold your most valuable property items in your living trust.