MOLALLA, Ore. -- A Molalla family plans to file a lawsuit if their pet deer, taken from them by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife one month ago, isn't returned to them by Saturday.

The deer, Snowball, and her offspring, Bucky, were removed from the family's home where they lived as pets, on Sept. 12. State wildlife officers confiscated them because it is illegal to hold such wild animals without a license in Oregon.

FAMILY STATEMENT: Saturday Deadline For Deer's Return | Video

The action caused an uproar among Oregonians who thought it heavy-handed, and Department of Fish and Wildlife officials quickly said that Snowball and Bucky would not be put to death. Bucky has since been released into the wild.

In a letter released by the family's attorney Monday, the family said it will seek a ruling by a circuit court judge that Snowball's return to the family is in the deer's best interests.

Last month, ODFW officials said Snowball would not be released into the wild because she is permanently disabled. They said they were considering either returning her to the family or placing her in a licensed facility where she can receive veterinary care.

On Monday, the family said the time for negotiation "is now over."

Related:

Oct. 8: Read the family's full statement

Sept. 27: Bucky The Deer To Be Released Into Wild

Sept. 27: Read ODFW's statement on the status Of Bucky and Snowball