Very nice to see..
Jackson County, OR — Losing your home brings with it a multitude of complex legal and insurance issues most people do not have the expertise to handle on their own.
The Oregon Trial Lawyers Association is heeding the call, providing free legal counsel to wildfire victims across the state.
While some companies and claim adjusters are doing everything right, Medford attorney Faith Morse thinks the same can’t be said for everyone.
“Unfortunately there have been many stories of insurance companies treating people in a way that is disappointing,” she said. “Making people settle for less than they’re entitled to or rushing them into things that they shouldn’t be rushed into, usually to the insurance companies benefit.”
Chris Couble, who has a practice in Grant’s Pass, is another attorney providing counsel alongside with Oregon Trial Lawyers Association.
“It’s never happened down here that we’ve had such a significant insurance situation,” he said. “Its a lot of very complex issues that people don’t generally think about when they’re buying insurance because they never think they’re going to have to file a claim. We’re dealing with insurance companies that are acting in a way that benefits the insurance company itself.”
Unfortunately, the lawyers providing pro-bono counsel have already heard of situations in which companies are not treating fire victims fairly.
“I’ve heard instances of insurance companies calling people up and saying ‘we’ll give you X amount of dollars, you have 24 hours to decide and if you don’t say yes you’re not going to get money for months or years,” she said. “That’s absolutely inappropriate. You should never be rushed or pushed into a settlement with an insurance company.”
Attorneys are available not just to provide legal guidance but potentially more, if the situation calls for it.
“They may need to actually have a lawyer so the insurance company deals with them fairly. And in the worst case scenario, file a lawsuit,” said Couble.
The Oregon Trial Lawyers Association plans to continue providing help as long as lawyers are needed.
“I think we’re actually at the beginning of this. It’s going to take several years to really see a full recovery if anything,” said Couble.
Morse added, “These are my people. This is my community. We can help, so we’re here. And we’re happy to be here.”
If you or someone you know in Oregon needs legal assistance after the recent wildfires. you can dial the hotline at 1-800-809-0616 or visit oregontriallawyers.com
