Will I have to go to court?Usually not. Nearly all cases are settled, whether before or after our client gives their deposition. However, we prepare every case as if it will go all the way to trial. We would much rather go to trial than accept unfair compensation for a client.
Can I afford your services? What are your fees? Unless you win or settle, there are no fees. Our fees are based on a percentage of the total recovery on your case, or are separately awarded by the court at the end of the case.
What costs will I incur? Oregon State Bar regulations require the client to remain responsible for expenses of the litigation to the extent of their ability to pay, whether the case is won or lost. Generally, our firm will advance most costs and be reimbursed at the end of the case from your recovery. Almost all of our clients lack the ability to pay costs on an ongoing basis.
If another lawyer has referred me to you, does that mean my case is going to cost me more money? No. We generally do not pay referral fees. If we did pay a referral fee to another attorney, it would be paid from our own attorney fees. You will never be required to pay additional money.
How long will this process take? The answer depends on the case. Most cases in Oregon are completed (unless there is an appeal or other delay) within 15 months of the case being filed in court. Multnomah County, Oregon has one of the fastest dockets in the country.
Will you take my case? We can only accept cases with merit that we believe we can win. Sometimes the merit of a case can be determined almost immediately. In other instances, we need additional time, effort, and investigation to evaluate your case. Sometimes, bad acts are not illegal and injuries have no legal remedy. And many legally viable claims can end up costing more to pursue than the client ultimately recovers. Our firm will always give you our honest opinion on the legal and practical merits of your case.
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