Q: When should I get an attorney involved in my case?

A: IMMEDIATELY. Whether it is a personal injury case, wrongful termination, harassment, slip and fall, or just about any type of case, you should get an attorney right now. There are so many pitfalls that people do not know about. If the insurance company totals your car and gets rid of it, then you could lose critical evidence necessary to prove your case. Did you know that employers need to keep personnel files for only 60 days? Some injury or employment law claims require notice within 180 days. Call me now; it costs you nothing (503-665-4234).

Q: Do you accept clients outside of the Portland Metro area?

A: Yes. I have represented people in Klamath Falls, Bend, Florence, John Day, Roseburg, and many other cities in Oregon. When the cases are significant, I will drive across Oregon to meet with you and your family. In the Portland Tri-County area, I regularly meet in the homes of my clients.

Q: Do you take cases on Contingency? No recovery, then no fee?

A: Yes. Most of my clients cannot afford to pay me by the hour. So, typically, I work under a contingent fee agreement. That means I get paid for my time from any money we win through a settlement or trial. In other words, if we do not recovery money, then you do not owe me for my time.

Q: Are you an Oregon Attorney who offers in-home appointments or "attorney house calls?"

A: Yes. In fact, I prefer it. Meeting in your home allows me to better understand you and the impact on your life caused by the wrongdoer. It makes it easier to meet with family and friends, who will be your witnesses. It allows me the best opportunity to understand the strengths (and weaknesses) of your case so that I may counsel you wisely and represent you vigorously.

Q: Do you offer in-hospital appointments?

A: Yes

Q: How long does it take to settle a case or go to trial?

A: It totally depends on the case. I've settled cases in months, and some have taken years, including a trip to the Court of Appeals. The general rule of thumb is that if you must sue, then there's a good chance your matter will conclude about one year after you file the lawsuit, give or take 3 months.

Q: My attorney is not returning my calls. Can I fire him?

A: Yes. But before you do, try to find another attorney who will take over. Also, you might try calling the Oregon Attorney Assistance Program, and let them know that you think your attorney has a problem. Their number is: 800-321-6227.

Q: How do you charge me?

A: Typically, I represent people who cannot afford to pay me by the hour.  So, I accept cases on a "contingent fee."  That means you do not pay me for my time unless I win money for you. Our attorney-client agreement will specify the percentage of the recovery that I earn.

"Costs" refer to expenses of a case other than attorney or paralegal time.  Litigation involves many costs, including court filing fees, court reporter fees, postage, expert witnesses, medical records, copying costs, etc.  Oregon law specifies that these costs remain the obligation of the client, win or lose. This is the same for every lawyer practicing in Oregon. For those clients who cannot afford to pay litigation costs as we incur them, the costs are paid out of the client's percentage of the settlement, if any.