Wildfire victims can consult with an attorney about their insurance claims at a series of free legal clinics on Saturday.
Insurance claims after a fire can be complicated. While many settlements go off smoothly, attorney Adam Springer of Yaquina Law in Newport said there are times when you may want to hire a lawyer.
“If you’re getting a straight-up denial from your insurance company on certain aspects of your claim, or if you’re ever asked to undergo an examination under oath, that’s a sign that an insurance company is viewing your claim as fraudulent, and you probably want help,” he said.
The free legal consultations are sponsored by the Oregon Trial Lawyers Association. Participants do not need to sign up in advance.
The consultations are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10 at the following locations:
Hilton Garden Inn, 3528 Gateway St, Springfield. 11 AM - 2 PM
Lincoln City Outlet Mall, Suite 200, 12 PM - 4 PM
City Hall, 444 S. First Ave, Mill City, 11 AM - 2 PM
An additional consultation will be held Saturday, Oct. 17 from 11 AM- 2 PM at the Springwater Presbyterian Church, 24553 S. Springwater Rd, Estacada.
"None of the attorneys that are volunteering are trying to solicit clients in any way," said Springer. "We do have a list of attorneys that specialize in fire insurance claims. If folks believe they need an attorney, we'll provide them with that list so that they can contact someone that might be able to help them."
And while at least one lawsuit has been filed in Oregon so far by someone seeking damages from parties they allege are responsible for the fire itself, Springer said the free legal consultations will not attempt to assist individuals interested in filing such a suit.
