When you have suffered an injury because of someone’s reckless action or negligence in Portland, it is pertinent to review the situation to determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim. As per Oregon’s statute of limitations, you have two years to file a lawsuit in court against the party responsible for your losses. The deadline is tight, and there is no room for mistakes. It would help if you considered consulting a personal injury attorney Portland OR, for advice, and in this simplified guide, we have a few pointers for you.
Evaluate the lawyer’s profile
If you have shortlisted a few personal injury law firms, you must consider the profile of their top lawyers. Check if they have worked on cases like yours. For instance, filing an auto accident claim requires a different approach when compared to a slip & fall accident. Make sure that the lawyer’s work is relevant to your case.
Go with questions
The attorney is not going to charge you for the first consultation, and it is best to use the appointment to get answers. Ask questions like –
- How long have you been practicing personal injury law in Portland?
- Do you have a contingency fee arrangement?
- If yes, what are the other expenses that I must pay?
- Are you going to work on my injury claim? If not, may I meet my lawyer?
- What is your standard approach for similar cases?
- What were the outcomes of your recent lawsuits?
- Have you been to court? If yes, what is your trial success rate?
- Are you expecting the case to go to trial?
- What is the realistic estimate of my damages?
- How long will it take to settle the claim?
Check reviews
With numerous law firms in Portland, finding one can be tricky. While you should check how the lawyer answers your questions, you can also look for more details through online reviews. Take a look at the social media handles and search engine reviews of potential law firms.
Be honest
No matter whether you are liable for the accident, your injury attorney needs to know every detail. Remember that even the best law firms cannot help you if you try to hide facts. Your lawyer’s job is to defend your interests, which means they will fight for your compensation.
Lastly, make sure to have a clear contract or engagement letter with your injury attorney, which should outline all details.